Information processing device and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device and an information processing program that enable smooth electronic conferencing.SOLUTION: An information processing device includes an acquisition unit, an output unit, a change unit, and a display control unit. The acquisition unit acquires the name of at least one of an input device and an output device. The change unit changes the name of at least one of the input device and the output device. The display control unit displays the changed name of at least one of the input device and the output device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an information processing apparatus and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Electronic conference systems such as video conference systems and web conference systems that use a plurality of information processing apparatuses connected via a network are widely used. In an electronic conference system, in addition to input devices such as microphones built in the information processing apparatus and output devices such as speakers, externally connected input devices or output devices may be used.

[0003] In such an electronic conference system, data such as voice data may not be correctly transmitted because the device used by the user is different from the device recognized by the information processing apparatus or web conference software.

[0004] The name of an externally connected input device or output device is difficult to identify, and it is difficult for the user to correctly recognize the device being used by himself / herself.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for a technology that can easily recognize the device used by the user, reduce troubles caused by the difference between the device used by the user and the device recognized by the web conference software, and realize a smooth electronic conference.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document No. 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] The problem that the embodiments of the present invention aim to solve is to provide an information processing device and an information processing program that can realize smooth electronic conferencing. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In one embodiment, the information processing device comprises an acquisition unit, a modification unit, and a display control unit. The acquisition unit acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device. The modification unit modifies the name of at least one of the input device and the output device. The display control unit displays the modified name of at least one of the input device and the output device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a web conferencing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the information processing procedure by the first information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display device of the first information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing another example of information processing by the first information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display device of the first information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an image displayed on the display device of the first information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing yet another example of information processing by the first information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display device of the first information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an image displayed on the display device of the first information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] In each drawing, the same reference numeral is used for identical components whenever possible, and redundant explanations are omitted. Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a web conferencing system 100 according to an embodiment. The web conferencing system 100 includes a server 1, a first information processing device 2, and a second information processing device 3. The server 1, the first information processing device 2, and the second information processing device 3 are connected to each other via a network. For example, the network consists of one or more networks from among various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The one or more networks may include wireless networks or wired networks. Note that the web conferencing system 100 may also refer to a system including at least two of the devices from the server 1, the first information processing device 2, and the second information processing device 3.

[0012] Server 1 is an electronic device that collects and processes data. The electronic device includes a computer. Server 1 is connected to the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3 via a network, allowing for seamless communication. The first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3 are used, for example, by different users in separate locations. Server 1 receives various data from the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3 and outputs various data to the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3. An example configuration of Server 1 will be described later.

[0013] The first information processing device 2 is an electronic device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. The first information processing device 2 is, for example, a device used by participants in a Web conference. For example, the first information processing device 2 is a PC (Personal Computer), a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The participant may be read as a user or a person. The first information processing device 2 is an example of an information processing terminal. A configuration example of the first information processing device 2 will be described later.

[0014] The second information processing device 3 is an electronic device capable of communicating with other electronic devices. The second information processing device 3 is, for example, a device used by the host or participants in a Web conference. For example, the second information processing device 3 is a PC, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The host or participant may be read as a user or a person. The second information processing device 3 is an example of an information processing terminal. A configuration example of the second information processing device 3 will be described later.

[0015] In the following description, when simply referred to as an "information processing device", it may refer to either the first information processing device 2 or the second information processing device 3, or may collectively refer to the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3.

[0016] A configuration example of the server 1 will be described. The server 1 is an electronic device including a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, and a communication interface 14. Each part constituting the server 1 is connected so as to be able to input and output signals to and from each other. In FIG. 1, the interface is described as "I / F".

[0017] Processor 11 corresponds to the central part of Server 1. Processor 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of Server 1. For example, Processor 11 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but is not limited thereto. Processor 11 may be composed of various circuits. Processor 11 expands a program stored in advance in main memory 12 or auxiliary storage device 13 into main memory 12. The program is a program that causes the processor 11 of Server 1 to realize or execute each part described later. Processor 11 executes various operations by executing the program expanded in main memory 12.

[0018] Main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage part of Server 1. Main memory 12 is an element that constitutes the computer of Server 1. Main memory 12 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. In the non-volatile memory area, main memory 12 stores an operating system or a program. Main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data can be appropriately rewritten by processor 11. For example, main memory 12 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, main memory 12 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area. Main memory 12 stores a program.

[0019] Auxiliary storage device 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of Server 1. Auxiliary storage device 13 is an element that constitutes the computer of Server 1. Auxiliary storage device 13 is an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disc Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like. Auxiliary storage device 13 stores the above-described program, data used by processor 11 to perform various processes, and data generated by the processes in processor 11. Auxiliary storage device 13 stores the above-described program.

[0020] The auxiliary storage device 13 stores user information of the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3 that participate in the web conference provided by the web conferencing system 100. User information includes user identification information, identification information of the information processing device used by the user, etc. User identification information is unique identification information assigned to each user in order to identify each user individually. Identification information of the information processing device is unique identification information assigned to each information processing device in order to identify each information processing device individually. Identification information of the information processing device includes the IP address of the information processing device, etc.

[0021] The communication interface 14 includes various interfaces that enable the server 1 to communicate with other electronic devices via a network, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0022] Note that the hardware configuration of Server 1 is not limited to the configuration described above. Server 1 may, as appropriate, omit or change the above-mentioned components and add new components.

[0023] An example configuration of the first information processing device 2 will be described. The first information processing device 2 is an electronic device that includes a processor 21, main memory 22, auxiliary storage device 23, communication interface 24, input / output interface 25, display device 26, speaker 27, and input device 28. Each component of the first information processing device 2 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output.

[0024] The processor 21 corresponds to the central part of the first information processing device 2. The processor 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the first information processing device 2. The processor 21 has the same hardware configuration as the processor 11 described above. The processor 21 performs various operations by executing programs that are pre-stored in the main memory 22 or the auxiliary storage device 23.

[0025] Main memory 22 corresponds to the main memory portion of the first information processing device 2. Main memory 22 is an element that constitutes the computer of the first information processing device 2. Main memory 22 has the same hardware configuration as main memory 12 described above. Main memory 22 stores programs.

[0026] The auxiliary storage device 23 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the first information processing device 2. The auxiliary storage device 23 is an element that constitutes the computer of the first information processing device 2. The auxiliary storage device 23 has the same hardware configuration as the auxiliary storage device 13 described above. The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the program described above.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores user information of the first information processing device 2. User information includes user identification information, identification information of the first information processing device 2, etc. User identification information is unique identification information assigned to each user in order to identify each user individually. Identification information of the first information processing device 2 is unique identification information assigned to each first information processing device 2 in order to identify each first information processing device 2 individually. Identification information of the first information processing device 2 includes the IP address of the first information processing device 2, etc.

[0028] The auxiliary storage device 23 stores the names of at least one of an external analog input device and an external analog output device. The names of the input and output devices include, for example, names arbitrarily set by the user of the first information processing device 2. Examples of names for the input and output devices include "XXX Microphone", "YYY Microphone", "AAA Speaker", "BBB Speaker", etc. The names of the input and output devices may also be names associated with user identification information. Examples of names associated with user identification information include "User A's Microphone", etc. The auxiliary storage device 23 may also store names that have been pre-set as names for the input and output devices. Examples of pre-set names include "Microphone (1)", "Speaker (1)", etc.

[0029] The communication interface 24 includes various interfaces that enable the first information processing device 2 to communicate with other devices via a network, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0030] The input / output interface 25 is an interface for connecting the first information processing device 2 to external devices. The external devices include external microphones 251-1 to 251-mi (where mi is an integer of 1 or more) capable of inputting audio, and external speakers 252-1 to 252-nj (where nj is an integer of 1 or more) capable of outputting audio. The input / output interface 25 is, for example, an audio terminal, USB (Universal Serial Bus), etc. External microphones 251-1 to 251-mi are an example of input devices. External microphones 251-1 to 251-mi include digitally connected external microphones and analogally connected external microphones. External speakers 252-1 to 252-nj are an example of output devices. External speakers 252-1 to 252-nj are not limited to speakers, but may be any external audio output device, such as headphones or earphones. External speakers 252-1 to 252-nj include external speakers with digital connections and external speakers with analog connections. External equipment may include an external camera capable of acquiring image data of a shooting range not shown.

[0031] The display device 26 is a device capable of displaying various screens under the control of the processor 21. For example, the display device 26 may be a liquid crystal display or an electroluminescent (EL) display.

[0032] Speaker 27 is a device capable of outputting sound under the control of the first information processing device 2. Speaker 27 is an example of an output device.

[0033] The input device 28 is a device capable of inputting data or instructions to the first information processing device 2. For example, the input device 28 includes a built-in microphone 281 capable of inputting voice, and a built-in camera 282 capable of acquiring image data of the shooting range. The input device 28 may also include a keyboard or a touch panel.

[0034] In the following description, "input device" refers to at least one of the external microphones 251-1 to 251-mi and microphone 281 included in input device 28. "Output device" refers to at least one of the external speakers 252-1 to 252-nj and speaker 27.

[0035] The hardware configuration of the first information processing device 2 is not limited to the configuration described above. The first information processing device 2 allows for the omission and modification of the above-described components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0036] The various components implemented in the aforementioned processor 21 will now be described. The processor 21 implements a startup processing unit 210, a software processing unit 211, a detection unit 212, an acquisition unit 213, a modification unit 214, and a display control unit 215. Each part implemented in the processor 21 can also be called a function. Each part implemented in the processor 21 can also be said to be implemented in the control unit which includes the processor 21 and the main memory 22.

[0037] The startup processing unit 210 performs the startup process for the first information processing device 2. The startup processing unit 210 performs the startup process in response to the user of the first information processing device 2 performing a startup operation for the first information processing device 2. The startup processing unit 210 determines whether the first information processing device 2 is in a usable Ready state or not. In the following description, "in response" may be read as "based on".

[0038] The software processing unit 211 performs the startup process for software such as a web conferencing application. The software processing unit 211 loads the software program, which is pre-stored in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13, into the main memory 12.

[0039] The detection unit 212 determines whether an external device has been connected to the first information processing device 2 via the input / output interface 25. The detection unit 212 may also detect whether the connected external device is an input device or an output device.

[0040] The acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of at least one of the input devices and output devices from the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the names of all input devices and output devices stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the names of at least one of the input devices and output devices stored in the auxiliary storage device 23 based on connected external equipment. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the input device from the auxiliary storage device 23 if the input device is connected to the first information processing device 2. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the output device from the auxiliary storage device 23 if the output device is connected to the first information processing device 2.

[0041] The modification unit 214 modifies the name of at least one of the input devices and output devices based on the name of at least one of the input devices and output devices acquired by the acquisition unit 213. The modification unit 214 modifies a predetermined name assigned as an initial setting to at least one of the input devices and output devices to the name of at least one of the input devices and output devices acquired by the acquisition unit 213. The predetermined name includes, for example, a general name for the input device or output device such as "microphone" or "speaker". If the acquisition unit 213 has acquired the names of multiple input devices and output devices, the modification unit 214 may change the multiple predetermined names to the names of the acquired input devices and output devices. If the acquisition unit 213 has acquired the name of only an input device, the modification unit 214 may change the predetermined name of the input device to the name of the acquired input device. If the acquisition unit 213 has acquired the name of only an output device, the modification unit 214 may change the predetermined name of the output device to the name of the acquired output device.

[0042] The display control unit 215 causes the display device 26 to display the name of at least one of the input device and output device that has been modified by the modification unit 214.

[0043] An example configuration of the second information processing device 3 will be described. The second information processing device 3 is an electronic device that includes a processor 31, main memory 32, auxiliary storage device 33, communication interface 34, input / output interface 35, display device 36, speaker 37, and input device 38. Each component of the second information processing device 3 is connected to each other so that signals can be input and output.

[0044] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the second information processing device 3. The processor 31 is an element that constitutes the computer of the second information processing device 3. The processor 31 has the same hardware configuration as the processor 11 described above. The processor 31 performs various operations by executing programs that are pre-stored in the main memory 32 or auxiliary storage device 33. The processor 31 implements the same startup processing unit 210, software processing unit 211, detection unit 212, acquisition unit 213, modification unit 214, and display control unit 215 as the processor 21.

[0045] Main memory 32 corresponds to the main memory portion of the second information processing device 3. Main memory 32 is an element that constitutes the computer of the second information processing device 3. Main memory 32 has the same hardware configuration as the main memory 12 described above. Main memory 32 stores programs.

[0046] The auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the second information processing device 3. The auxiliary storage device 33 is an element that constitutes the computer of the second information processing device 3. The auxiliary storage device 33 has the same hardware configuration as the auxiliary storage device 13 described above. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores the program described above.

[0047] The auxiliary storage device 33 stores user information for the second information processing device 3. User information includes user identification information, identification information for the second information processing device 3, etc. User identification information is unique identification information assigned to each user to identify each user individually. Identification information for the second information processing device 3 is unique identification information assigned to each second information processing device 3 to identify each second information processing device 3 individually. Identification information for the second information processing device 3 includes the IP address of the information processing device, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the name of at least one of an external analog input device and an external analog output device, which are arbitrarily set by the user of the second information processing device 3.

[0048] The communication interface 34 includes various interfaces that enable the second information processing device 3 to communicate with other devices via a network, in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0049] The input / output interface 35 is an interface for connecting the second information processing device 3 to external devices. The external devices include external microphones 351-1 to 351-m (where m is an integer of 1 or more) capable of inputting audio, and external speakers 352-1 to 352-n (where n is an integer of 1 or more) capable of acquiring shooting data of the shooting range. The input / output interface 35 is, for example, an audio terminal, USB, etc. External microphones 351-1 to 351-m are an example of input devices. External microphones 351-1 to 351-m include digitally connected external microphones and analogally connected external microphones. External speakers 352-1 to 352-n are an example of output devices. External speakers 352-1 to 352-n are not limited to speakers, but may be any external audio output device, such as headphones or earphones. External speakers 352-1 to 352-n include external speakers with digital connections and external speakers with analog connections. External equipment may include an external camera capable of acquiring image data of a shooting range not shown.

[0050] The display device 36 is a device capable of displaying various screens under the control of the processor 31. For example, the display device 36 is a liquid crystal display or an EL display.

[0051] The speaker 37 is a device capable of outputting sound under the control of the second information processing device 3.

[0052] The input device 38 is a device capable of inputting data or instructions to the second information processing device 3. For example, the input device 38 includes a built-in microphone 381 capable of inputting voice, and a built-in camera 382 capable of acquiring image data of the shooting range. The input device 38 may also include a keyboard or a touch panel.

[0053] In the following description, "input device" refers to at least one of the external microphones 351-1 to 351-m and microphone 381 included in input device 38. "Output device" refers to at least one of the external speakers 352-1 to 352-n and speaker 37.

[0054] The hardware configuration of the second information processing device 3 is not limited to the configuration described above. The second information processing device 3 allows for the omission and modification of the above-described components, as well as the addition of new components, as appropriate.

[0055] This document describes the processing procedure using the web conferencing system 100. In the following explanation, which primarily focuses on the first information processing device 2, the first information processing device 2 may be read as processor 21. In the following process, the users of the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3 will participate in the web conference. The users of the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3 will log in to the web conference and select the input device to be used.

[0056] In the following process, it is assumed that predetermined names for input devices and output devices are initially set in the first information processing device 2 and the second information processing device 3. These predetermined names include, for example, the names of modules equipped with terminals for analog connection of external input devices or external output devices, or general names of input devices or output devices such as "microphone" or "speaker".

[0057] In the following process, external microphones 251-1 to 251-mi include digitally connected external microphones and analogally connected external microphones, and external speakers 252-1 to 252-nj include digitally connected external speakers and analogously connected external speakers. The user shall pre-configure the names of the analogally connected external microphones and analogously connected external speakers.

[0058] The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate.

[0059] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the information processing procedure by the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment. The startup processing unit 210 performs a startup operation (ACT1) in response to a user performing a startup operation on the first information processing device 2. In ACT1, for example, if the user turns on the power to the first information processing device 2, the startup processing unit 210 starts up the first information processing device 2 and makes it usable.

[0060] The startup processing unit 210 determines whether the first information processing device 2 is in a usable state (ACT2). A usable state is, for example, the Ready state. If the startup processing unit 210 determines that the first information processing device 2 is in a usable state (ACT2: YES), the process transitions from ACT2 to ACT3. If the startup processing unit 210 determines that the first information processing device 2 is not in a usable state (ACT2: NO), the process repeats ACT2. Not being in a usable state includes the first information processing device 2 being in the process of starting up.

[0061] The acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of at least one of the external microphones and external speakers connected via analog connections from the auxiliary storage device 23 (ACT3). In ACT3, for example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of the external microphones and external speakers stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. In this example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of the external microphones and external speakers that have been pre-configured by the user from the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire all the names of the external microphones and external speakers that have been pre-configured by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the names of frequently used external microphones and external speakers from among the names of external microphones and external speakers that have been pre-configured by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external microphone and external speaker that has been most recently used by the user.

[0062] The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the names of external microphones and external speakers connected via analog connections based on user instructions. For example, if the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of an external microphone, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external microphone. If the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of an external speaker, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external speaker. If the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of a specific external microphone or external speaker, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of a specific external microphone or external speaker. In this case, the acquisition unit 213 may display a message on the display device 26 to accept user instructions based on the fact that the first information processing device 2 is available. The message to accept user instructions may be, for example, "Do you want to change the name of the microphone?" or "Do you want to change the name of the speaker?". The message to accept user instructions may also include, for example, a message prompting the user to select a specific name from several names.

[0063] The modification unit 214 changes the name of at least one of the external microphone and external speaker based on the name of at least one of the acquired external microphone and external speaker (ACT4). In ACT4, for example, the modification unit 214 changes the predetermined name of the external microphone to the name of the acquired external microphone. The modification unit 214 changes the predetermined name of the external speaker to the name of the acquired external speaker. If there are multiple names for the acquired external microphone and external speaker, the modification unit 214 may set multiple names as the names of the external microphone and external speaker.

[0064] The display control unit 215 causes the display device 26 to display the name of at least one of the external microphone and external speaker that has been changed by the modification unit 214 (ACT5). In ACT5, for example, the display control unit 215 displays the names of the external microphone and external speaker on the display device 26 based on user operation. User operation includes operation to display device setting information, etc. The display control unit 215 displays the names of the external microphone and external speaker that have been changed by the modification unit 214 as setting information for the external microphone and external speaker.

[0065] The setting information image displayed on the display device 26 will now be described. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display device 26 of the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment. Figure 3 shows an image (Ima) of the configuration information when the output device name is changed. The configuration information image Ima includes area Ara, which contains the name of the output device. In addition to the output device, the configuration information image Ima also includes configuration information for various other devices.

[0066] In the example shown in Figure 3, the output devices include both analog and digital speakers. The user has set the names of the external analog speakers to "YYY Speaker" and "ZZZ Speaker".

[0067] For digitally connected external speakers, the first information processing device 2 can obtain detailed information such as the speaker's name from the external speaker, so the display device 26 may display the name of the digitally connected speaker, "XXX speaker," in area Ara. For analogally connected external speakers, the display device 26 displays the names of the output devices set by the user, "YYY speaker" and "ZZZ speaker," in area Ara.

[0068] Note that while Figure 3 only shows area Ara, which displays the name of the output device, the configuration information image Ima may similarly include an area that displays the name of the input device.

[0069] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing another example of information processing by the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0070] The following processes shall be performed in the first information processing device 2 based on the fact that at least one of the input device and the output device has been connected by the user.

[0071] The detection unit 212 determines whether an external microphone with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 via the input / output interface 25 (ACT11). If the detection unit 212 determines that an external microphone with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT11: YES), the process transitions from ACT11 to ACT12. If the detection unit 212 determines that an external microphone with an analog connection is not connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT11: NO), the process repeats ACT11.

[0072] The acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of the external microphone connected via analog connection from the auxiliary storage device 23 (ACT12). In ACT12, for example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of the external microphone stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. In this example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of the external microphone that has been pre-set by the user from the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire all the names of the external microphones that have been pre-set by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external microphone that has been most recently used by the user.

[0073] The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of an external microphone connected via analog connection based on user instructions. For example, if the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of an external microphone, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external microphone. If the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of a specific external microphone, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of a specific external microphone. In this case, the acquisition unit 213 may display a message on the display device 26 indicating that it has accepted user instructions, based on the fact that an external microphone has been connected to the first information processing device 2.

[0074] The modification unit 214 changes the name of the external microphone based on the acquired name of the external microphone (ACT 13). In ACT 13, for example, the modification unit 214 changes the predetermined name of the external microphone to the acquired name of the external microphone. If there are multiple acquired names for the external microphone, the modification unit 214 may set multiple names as the names of the external microphone.

[0075] The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external microphone, which has been changed by the modification unit 214, on the display device 26 (ACT14). In ACT14, for example, the display control unit 215 displays the name of the external microphone on the display device 26 based on user operation. User operation includes operations to display device setting information, etc. The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external microphone, which has been changed by the modification unit 214, as the setting information of the external microphone.

[0076] The detection unit 212 determines, via the input / output interface 25, whether or not an external speaker with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT15). If the detection unit 212 determines that an external speaker with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT15: YES), the process transitions from ACT15 to ACT16. If the detection unit 212 determines that an external speaker with an analog connection is not connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT15: NO), the process repeats ACT15.

[0077] The acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of external speakers connected via analog connection from the auxiliary storage device 23 (ACT16). In ACT16, for example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of external speakers stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. In this example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of external speakers that have been pre-set by the user from the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire all the names of external speakers that have been pre-set by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the names of frequently used external speakers from among the names of external speakers that have been pre-set by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external speaker that has been most recently used by the user.

[0078] The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of an external speaker connected via analog connection based on user instructions. For example, if the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of an external speaker, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external speaker. If the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of a specific external speaker, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of a specific external speaker. In this case, the acquisition unit 213 may display a message on the display device 26 indicating that an external speaker has been connected to the first information processing device 2, in order to accept user instructions.

[0079] The modification unit 214 changes the name of the external speaker based on the acquired name of the external speaker (ACT17). In ACT17, for example, the modification unit 214 changes the predetermined name of the external speaker to the acquired name of the external speaker. If there are multiple acquired names for the external speaker, the modification unit 214 may set multiple names as the names of the external speaker.

[0080] The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external speaker changed by the modification unit 214 on the display device 26 (ACT18). In ACT18, for example, the display control unit 215 displays the name of the external speaker on the display device 26 based on user operation. The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external speaker changed by the modification unit 214 as setting information for the external speaker.

[0081] This section describes the configuration information image displayed on the display device 26. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display device 26 of the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0082] Figure 5 shows an image (Imb) of the configuration information when the name of the input device is changed. The configuration information image Imb includes an area Arb containing the name of the input device.

[0083] In the example shown in Figure 5, the input devices include both an analog microphone and a digital microphone. The user has set the name of the analog external microphone to "YYY Microphone".

[0084] For external microphones with digital connections, the first information processing device 2 can obtain detailed information such as the microphone's name from the external microphone, so the display device 26 may display the name of the digitally connected microphone, "XXX Microphone," in area Arb. For external microphones with analog connections, the display device 26 displays the name of the output device set by the user, "YYY Microphone," in area Arb.

[0085] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an image displayed on the display device 26 of the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment. Figure 6 shows the configuration information image Imc when the output device name is changed. The configuration information image IMC includes an area Arc containing the name of the output device.

[0086] In the example in Figure 6, the output devices include both analog and digital speakers. The user has set the names of the external analog speakers to "BBB speaker" and "CCC speaker".

[0087] For digitally connected external speakers, the first information processing device 2 can obtain detailed information such as the speaker's name from the external speaker, so the display device 26 may display the name of the digitally connected speaker, "AAA speaker," in area Arc. For analogally connected speakers, the display device 26 displays the names of the output devices set by the user, "BBB speaker" and "CCC speaker," in area Arc.

[0088] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing yet another example of information processing by the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0089] The following processes shall be executed in the first information processing device 2 based on the user launching software such as a web conferencing application.

[0090] The software processing unit 211 determines whether or not software such as a web conferencing application has been launched (ACT21). If the software processing unit 211 determines that software such as a web conferencing application has been launched (ACT21: YES), the process transitions from ACT21 to ACT22. If the software processing unit 211 determines that software such as a web conferencing application has not been launched (ACT21: NO), the process repeats ACT21.

[0091] The detection unit 212 determines whether an external microphone with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 via the input / output interface 25 (ACT22). If the detection unit 212 determines that an external microphone is connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT22: YES), the process transitions from ACT22 to ACT23. If the detection unit 212 determines that an external microphone with an analog connection is not connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT22: NO), the process repeats ACT22.

[0092] The acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of the external microphone connected via analog connection from the auxiliary storage device 23 (ACT23). In ACT23, for example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of the external microphone stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. In this example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the name of the external microphone that has been pre-set by the user from the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire all the names of the external microphones that have been pre-set by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external microphone that has been most recently used by the user.

[0093] The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of an external microphone connected via analog connection based on user instructions. For example, if the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of an external microphone, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external microphone. If the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of a specific external microphone, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of a specific external microphone. In this case, the acquisition unit 213 may display a message on the display device 26 indicating that it has accepted user instructions, based on the fact that an external microphone has been connected to the first information processing device 2.

[0094] The modification unit 214 changes the name of the external microphone based on the acquired name of the external microphone (ACT24). In ACT24, for example, the modification unit 214 changes the predetermined name of the external microphone to the acquired name of the external microphone. If there are multiple names for the acquired external microphone, the modification unit 214 may set multiple names as the names of the external microphone.

[0095] The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external microphone, which has been changed by the modification unit 214, on the display device 26 (ACT 25). In ACT 25, for example, the display control unit 215 displays the name of the external microphone on the display device 26 based on user operation. User operation includes operations that display device setting information in software such as a web conferencing application. The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external microphone, which has been changed by the modification unit 214, as the setting information for the external microphone.

[0096] The detection unit 212 determines, via the input / output interface 25, whether or not an external speaker with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT26). If the detection unit 212 determines that an external speaker with an analog connection is connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT26: YES), the process transitions from ACT26 to ACT27. If the detection unit 212 determines that an external speaker with an analog connection is not connected to the first information processing device 2 (ACT26: NO), the process repeats ACT26.

[0097] The acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of external speakers connected via analog connection from the auxiliary storage device 23 (ACT27). In ACT27, for example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of external speakers stored in the auxiliary storage device 23. In this example, the acquisition unit 213 acquires the names of external speakers that have been pre-set by the user from the auxiliary storage device 23. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire all the names of external speakers that have been pre-set by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the names of frequently used external speakers from among the names of external speakers that have been pre-set by the user. The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external speaker that has been most recently used by the user.

[0098] The acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of an external speaker connected via analog connection based on user instructions. For example, if the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of an external speaker, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of the external speaker. If the user instructs the acquisition unit 213 to acquire the name of a specific external speaker, the acquisition unit 213 may acquire the name of a specific external speaker. In this case, the acquisition unit 213 may display a message on the display device 26 indicating that an external speaker has been connected to the first information processing device 2, in order to accept user instructions.

[0099] The modification unit 214 changes the name of the external speaker based on the acquired name of the external speaker (ACT28). In ACT28, for example, the modification unit 214 changes the predetermined name of the external speaker to the acquired name of the external speaker. If there are multiple acquired names for the external speaker, the modification unit 214 may set multiple names as the names of the external speaker.

[0100] The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external speaker changed by the modification unit 214 on the display device 26 (ACT 29). In ACT 29, for example, the display control unit 215 displays the name of the external speaker on the display device 26 based on user operation. The display control unit 215 displays the name of the external speaker changed by the modification unit 214 as setting information for the external speaker.

[0101] This section describes the configuration information image displayed on the display device 26. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image displayed on the display device 26 of the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment.

[0102] Figure 8 shows the configuration information image Imd when the name of the input device is changed. The configuration information image Imd includes an area Ard containing the name of the input device.

[0103] In the example shown in Figure 8, the input devices include both an analog microphone and a digital microphone. The user has set the name of the analog external microphone to "YYY Microphone".

[0104] For external microphones with digital connections, the first information processing device 2 can obtain detailed information such as the microphone's name from the external microphone, so the display device 26 may display the name of the digitally connected microphone, "XXX Microphone," in area Ard. For external microphones with analog connections, the display device 26 displays the name of the output device set by the user, "YYY Microphone," in area Ard.

[0105] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing another example of an image displayed on the display device 26 of the first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment. Figure 9 shows the configuration information image Ime when the output device name is changed. The configuration information image Ime includes an area called Are, which contains the name of the output device.

[0106] In the example in Figure 9, the output devices include both analog and digital speakers. The user has set the names of the external analog speakers to "BBB speaker" and "CCC speaker".

[0107] For digitally connected external speakers, the first information processing device 2 can obtain detailed information such as the speaker's name from the external speaker, so the display device 26 may display the name of the digitally connected speaker, "AAA speaker," in area Are. For analogally connected speakers, the display device 26 displays the names of the output devices set by the user, "BBB speaker" and "CCC speaker," in area Are.

[0108] (effect) The first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment can acquire the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, change the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, and display the changed name of at least one of the input device and the output device. For example, the first information processing device 2 can change the name of at least one external device, such as an external microphone and an external speaker, to a pre-set name and display the changed name. Therefore, the user can appropriately select the external device to use based on the pre-set name. This allows the first information processing device 2 to mitigate problems caused by discrepancies between the external device recognized by the user as being used in an electronic conference and the external device actually being used, thereby enabling smooth electronic conferences.

[0109] The first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment can detect that at least one of an input device and an output device is connected, and can obtain the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result. As a result, the first information processing device 2 can change the name of at least one of the connected external devices to a preset name and display the changed name. Therefore, the user can appropriately select the connected external device based on the preset name. In this way, the first information processing device 2 can reduce problems caused by differences between the external device recognized by the user as the device being used in an electronic conference, etc., and the external device actually being used, thereby enabling smooth electronic conferences.

[0110] The first information processing device 2 according to the embodiment can detect when at least one of an input device and an output device is connected based on user operation when web conferencing software is launched, and can obtain the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result. As a result, the first information processing device 2 can change the name of at least one of the connected external devices to a pre-set name in the web conferencing software and display the changed name. Therefore, the user can appropriately select the connected external device in the web conferencing software based on the pre-set name. In this way, the first information processing device 2 can reduce problems caused by differences between the external device recognized by the user as being used in an electronic conference, etc., and the external device actually being used, thereby realizing a smooth electronic conference.

[0111] The first information processing device 2 according to this embodiment can acquire the name of at least one of an external input device with an analog connection and an external output device with an analog connection, and change the name to the acquired name. Unlike external devices with a digital connection, information about external input devices or external output devices with an analog connection cannot be acquired. Therefore, by changing the name of such an external device, the user can appropriately select the connected external device in the web conferencing software based on a pre-set name. In this way, the first information processing device 2 can realize smooth electronic conferencing.

[0112] The first information processing device 2 according to this embodiment can change the name of at least one of the input device and the output device to a name set by the user. Therefore, the first information processing device 2 can display the name set by the user, allowing the user to easily identify the external device at a glance. In this way, the first information processing device 2 can realize smooth electronic conferencing.

[0113] The above-described embodiments may be represented as follows: [1] An acquisition unit that acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, A modification unit that modifies the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, A display control unit that displays the name of at least one of the modified input device and output device, An information processing device equipped with the following features. [2] Further comprising a detection unit that detects that at least one of the input device and the output device is connected, The acquisition unit acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result by the detection unit. [1] The information processing device described above. [3] The system further includes a detection unit that detects when the web conferencing software is launched based on user operation, that at least one of the input device and the output device has been connected. The acquisition unit acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result by the detection unit. [1] The information processing device described above. [4] The input device is an external input device with an analog connection, The output device is an external output device with an analog connection. An information processing device as described in any one of items [1] to [3]. [5] Computers, A function to obtain the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, A change function that changes the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, A display control function that displays the name of at least one of the modified input device and output device, An information processing program to execute an action.

[0114] [Other embodiments] Although the first information processing device 2 has been described as being equipped with multiple microphones and multiple speakers as external devices, it is not limited to this. The first information processing device 2 may be equipped with at least one microphone and at least one speaker.

[0115] The first information processing device 2 may also be equipped with multiple cameras as external devices. In this case, the first information processing device 2 may acquire the names of the cameras, change the names of the cameras, and display the changed names on the display device 26.

[0116] Although the first information processing device 2 has been described as acquiring the name of an external device connected via analog, it is not limited to this. The first information processing device 2 may also acquire and change the name of an external device connected via digital, and display the changed name on the display device 26.

[0117] The information processing device may be implemented as a single device, such as the first information processing device 2, or as multiple devices with distributed functions.

[0118] The embodiments described above may apply not only to the apparatus but also to the methods performed by the apparatus. The embodiments described above may also apply to a program that can cause the computer of the apparatus to perform each function.

[0119] The program may be transferred while stored in the device, or it may be transferred without being stored in the device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or it may be transferred while recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-temporary tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium can be any medium that is capable of storing a program and is readable by a computer, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, and its form is not limited.

[0120] In addition, several embodiments of the present invention have been described, but these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 1…Server, 2…First information processing device, 3…Second information processing device, 11…Processor, 12…Main memory, 13…Auxiliary storage device, 14…Communication interface, 21…Processor, 22…Main memory, 23…Auxiliary storage device, 24…Communication interface, 25…Input / output interface, 26…Display device, 27…Speaker, 28…Input device, 31…Processor, 32…Main memory, 33…Auxiliary storage device, 34…Communication interface, 35…Input / output interface, 36…Table Display device, 37...speaker, 38...input device, 100...Web conferencing system, 210...startup processing unit, 211...software processing unit, 212...detection unit, 213...acquisition unit, 214...change unit, 215...display control unit, 251-1~251-mi...microphone, 252-1~252-nj...speaker, 281...microphone, 282...camera, 351-1~351-m...microphone, 352-1~352-n...speaker, 381...microphone, 382...camera, Ara~Are...area, Ima~Ime...setting information image.

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device from the storage unit of the information processing device, A modification unit that modifies the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, A display control unit that displays the name of at least one of the modified input device and output device, Equipped with, The aforementioned input device is an external input device with an analog connection. The output device is an external output device with an analog connection. Information processing device.

2. The system further includes a detection unit that detects whether at least one of the input device and the output device is connected. The acquisition unit acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result by the detection unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The system further includes a detection unit that detects when the web conferencing software is launched based on user operation, that at least one of the input device and the output device has been connected. The acquisition unit acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result by the detection unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The name of at least one of the input device and the output device is a name set by the user. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The computer of the information processing device, An acquisition function for obtaining the name of at least one of the input device and the output device from the storage unit of the information processing device, A change function that changes the name of at least one of the input device and the output device, A display control function that displays the name of at least one of the modified input device and output device, An information processing program for executing, The aforementioned input device is an external input device with an analog connection. The output device is an external output device with an analog connection. Information processing program.

6. An information processing program for further executing a detection function that detects whether at least one of the input device and the output device has been connected when web conferencing software is launched based on user operation, The acquisition function acquires the name of at least one of the input device and the output device based on the detection result of the detection function. The information processing program according to claim 5.

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