Sound output device, sound output system, and control method

Abstract

Sound output device, sound output system, and control method. When connected to an information processing device, it is possible to suppress sound output from an unintended sound output unit. The sound output device is communicably connected to the information processing device and includes: a wearing part that wears the sound output device on a human body; a plurality of sound output parts that output information representing sound or perform an action of sound; and a control part that, when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, makes the actions of one or more predetermined first sound output parts among the plurality of sound output parts effective and makes the actions of one or more sound output parts other than the one or more first sound output parts among the plurality of sound output parts ineffective.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sound output device, a sound output system, and a control method. Background Art

[0002] Research and development are being carried out on devices for outputting sound.

[0003] Regarding this, there is already such an information processing device that performs image display and sound output on a plurality of display devices, stores information that correlates the display destination of an image and the output destination of sound, and when the display destination of the image is switched, based on this information, sets the sound output destination corresponding to the display destination of the image after switching the image display destination as the sound output destination after switching the image display destination (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-009321

[0005] Here, in the information processing device described in Patent Document 1, when the display device selected as the sound output destination has a plurality of sound output devices that serve as sound output destinations, it is impossible to determine which sound output device should be selected as the sound output destination, and sometimes sound is output from an unintended sound output device. In other words, when a display device connected to the information processing device has a plurality of sound output devices, when connected to the information processing device, sometimes sound is output from an unintended sound output device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a sound output device communicably connected to an information processing device, including: a display unit having a display element that emits image light; a wearing unit that wears the display unit on a person's body; a first sound output unit that outputs sound or information representing the sound; a second sound output unit different from the first sound output unit that outputs the sound or information representing the sound; and a control unit that, when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, enables the operation of the first sound output unit and disables the operation of the second sound output unit.

[0007] In addition, in order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a sound output system including the above-described sound output device and the above-described information processing device.

[0008] In addition, to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a control method for a sound output device connected to an information processing device in a communicable manner. The sound output device includes: a wearing part that wears the sound output device on a person's body; and a plurality of sound output parts that output information representing sound or perform actions of sound. The control method includes the following steps: when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, making the actions of one or more predetermined first sound output parts among the plurality of sound output parts effective; when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, making the actions of one or more sound output parts other than the one or more first sound output parts among the plurality of sound output parts ineffective. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sound output system 1.

[0010] Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the sound output device 10 included in the sound output system 1.

[0011] Figure 3 FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing device 20 included in the sound output system 1.

[0012] Figure 4 FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of the operations of the sound input / output part 16A and the sound input / output part 16B and the sound input / output part that performs sound output in the sound output system 1.

[0013] Figure 5 FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the effective / invalid switching process performed by the sound output device 10 when connected to the information processing device 20.

[0014] Figure 6 FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the state transitioned by the process of step S170.

[0015] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the process performed by the information processing device 20 when a switching operation is received.

[0016] Figure 8 FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the operation image P1.

[0017] Figure 9 FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the operation image P1 when the image P12 is displayed.

[0018] Figure 10This is an example of a flowchart showing the processing performed by the sound output device 10 when a specified storage start condition is satisfied.

[0019] Figure 11 This is an example of a flowchart showing the processing performed by the sound output device 10 when a specified read start condition is satisfied.

[0020] Reference Numeral Explanation

[0021] 1 Sound output system; 10 Sound output device; 10A Sound output device main body; 10B Relay device; 11, 21 Control units; 12, 22 Storage units; 13 Operation unit; 14, 24 Communication units; 15, 25 Display units; 16A, 16B, 26 Sound input / output units; 17 Wearing unit; 20 Information processing device; 23 Input reception unit. Detailed Embodiment

[0022] <Embodiment>

[0023] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] <Outline of Sound Output System>

[0025] First, the outline of the sound output system according to the embodiment will be described.

[0026] The sound output system according to the embodiment includes a sound output device and an information processing device. Here, the sound output device is connected to the information processing device in a communicable manner. In addition, the sound output device includes a wearing unit, a plurality of sound output units, and a control unit. The wearing unit allows the sound output device to be worn on a person's body. The plurality of sound output units respectively perform an operation of outputting information representing sound or sound. And, when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, the control unit enables the operation of one or more predetermined first sound output units among the plurality of sound output units, and disables the operation of one or more sound output units other than the one or more first sound output units among the plurality of sound output units. Thereby, the sound output device and the sound output system can suppress the output of sound from an unintended sound output unit when connected to the information processing device.

[0027] Hereinafter, the structure of the sound output system according to the embodiment and the processing performed by the sound output system when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device will be described in detail.

[0028] <Structure of Sound Output System>

[0029] First, taking the sound output system 1 as an example, the structure of the sound output system according to the embodiment will be described. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the user of the sound output system 1 will be simply referred to as the user and described.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the sound output system 1. Additionally, Figure 2 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the sound output device 10 included in the sound output system 1. Additionally, Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the information processing device 20 included in the sound output system 1.

[0031] The sound output system 1 includes a sound output device 10 and an information processing device 20. Here, the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20 are connected to be communicable with each other by wire or wirelessly.

[0032] The sound output system 1 causes the information processing device 20 to output sound information representing a sound, and causes the sound output device 10 to output the sound represented by the sound information output from the information processing device 20. Thus, the sound output system 1 enables a user to hear the sound the user desires. Here, in the present embodiment, the sound refers to sound, audio, music, etc., but is not limited thereto. That is, in the present embodiment, the sound can be a sound emitted by a living thing or a sound emitted by an inanimate object. Additionally, in the present embodiment, the sound information can be a signal representing a sound or other forms of information representing a sound.

[0033] The sound output device 10 is an example of the above-described sound output device. The sound output device 10 acquires the sound information output from the information processing device 20. The sound output device 10 performs processing corresponding to the acquired sound information. For example, the sound output device 10 performs processing to output the sound represented by the acquired sound information. Thus, the sound output device 10 enables a user to hear the sound. Additionally, for example, the sound output device 10 performs processing to output the acquired sound information to another device capable of outputting the sound represented by the sound information. The other device is a headphone, a headset, etc., but is not limited thereto. Therefore, the sound output device 10 can output the sound represented by the sound information output from the information processing device 20 to the other device.

[0034] Additionally, the sound output device 10 is a device that a user can wear. In Figure 1 the example shown, the sound output device 10 is a head-mounted display. The head-mounted display is an example of a wearable display device. In addition, instead of the head-mounted display, the sound output device 10 can also be other types of wearable display devices that a user can wear. Additionally, the sound output device 10 can also be a wearable device that cannot display an image and can output sound instead of the head-mounted display. As such a device, for example, a headset, etc. can be cited.

[0035] In addition, the sound output device 10 includes a plurality of sound output units that perform actions of outputting sound information or sound. Therefore, the sound output device 10 can cause any one of the plurality of sound output units to output the sound represented by the sound information obtained from the information processing device 20 or the sound information itself. The plurality of sound output units are respectively, for example, a conical speaker, a horn-shaped speaker, a strip-shaped speaker, a dome-shaped speaker, a bone conduction speaker, a device having a jack for outputting sound information, a device having a plug for outputting sound information, a communication device that wirelessly outputs sound information, etc., but are not limited to these. In addition, a part or all of the plurality of sound output units included in the sound output device 10 may also be a sound input / output unit integrated with a sound input unit that inputs sound information. In this case, the sound input / output unit is, for example, a device in which any one of various speakers is integrated with a microphone, a communication device that wirelessly inputs and outputs sound information, etc., but is not limited thereto. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the sound output device 10 includes two sound output units will be described. In addition, hereinafter, as an example, the case where these two sound output units are respectively sound input / output units will be described. In addition, hereinafter, as an example, the case where these two sound input / output units are the two sound input / output units, i.e., the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B, will be described. In addition, the sound output device 10 may also be configured to include three or more sound output units. In this case, a part or all of the three or more sound output units may also be sound input / output units.

[0036] Here, as Figure 2 shown, the sound output device 10 includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, an operation unit 13, a communication unit 14, a display unit 15, a sound input / output unit 16A, a sound input / output unit 16B, and a wearing unit 17. In addition, in Figure 1 order to prevent the figure from becoming complicated, the control unit 11, the storage unit 12, and the communication unit 14 are omitted.

[0037] The control unit 11 controls the entire sound output device 10. The control unit 11 is a processor, such as a microcomputer, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. The control unit 11 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 12. In addition, the control unit 11 may be composed of multiple hardware components or a single processor. Additionally, the control unit 11 may also be hardware programmed to implement the various functions of the sound output device 10. That is, the control unit 11 may also be a structure in which various programs stored in the storage unit 12 are mounted as a hardware circuit. In this case, for example, the control unit 11 is composed of an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc.

[0038] The storage unit 12 includes, for example, an SSD (Solid State Drive), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Additionally, the storage unit 12 may be an external storage device connected via a digital input / output port such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) instead of the storage device built into the sound output device 10. The storage unit 12 stores various information, various programs, etc. processed by the sound output device 10. In addition, the storage unit 12 may be composed of one storage device or multiple storage devices.

[0039] The operation unit 13 has one or more hardware keys for accepting various operations. The operation unit 13 has a hardware key for accepting an operation to adjust the volume, which is the magnitude of the sound output from the sound output device 10, a hardware key for accepting an operation to switch the power supply of the sound output device 10 on and off, etc. In addition, the operation unit 13 may also be a structure that replaces these hardware keys or has other hardware keys in addition to these hardware keys. Additionally, the sound output device 10 may also be a structure that does not have the operation unit 13. In this case, the sound output device 10 accepts operations from an information processing device connected to the sound output device 10 in a communicable manner. Here, the information processing device 20 is an example of such an information processing device. In addition, even when the sound output device 10 has the operation unit 13, it accepts operations from an information processing device connected to the sound output device 10 in a communicable manner.

[0040] The communication unit 14 is configured to include, for example, digital input / output ports such as USB and Ethernet (registered trademark) ports, etc.

[0041] The display unit 15 is a display device including a transmissive liquid crystal display. Additionally, the display unit 15 may instead of the transmissive liquid crystal display include other transmissive displays, a light guide optical system for transmissive type, and a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display panel, etc., which emit image light to the light guide optical system. Moreover, the display unit 15 is not limited to the transmissive type that transmits external light, and may also be a structure that blocks external light from transmitting and only allows the image to be seen by the user, or a structure that overlaps the external image captured by the camera with the image and allows the user to see it.

[0042] The sound input / output unit 16A is an example of a sound input / output unit in which a sound input unit for inputting sound information and a sound output unit for performing the action of outputting sound information or sound are integrated. The sound input / output unit 16A is, for example, a built-in microphone and speaker integrated with the sound output device 10. At this time, the microphone is an example of the sound input unit for inputting sound information. Additionally, in this case, the speaker is an example of the sound output unit for performing the action of outputting sound. The speaker can be any type of speaker. Moreover, the sound output device 10 may also be configured to include a built-in speaker integrated with the sound output device 10 instead of the sound input / output unit 16A.

[0043] The sound input / output unit 16B is an example of a sound input / output unit in which a sound input unit for inputting sound information and a sound output unit for performing the action of outputting sound information or sound are integrated. The sound input / output unit 16B, for example, has a jack, and when a plug is inserted into the jack, it performs input / output of sound information via the jack and the plug. The plug is, for example, a plug for inputting sound information to headphones, headsets, etc., a plug for outputting sound information from a music playback device such as a CD player, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, the sound output device 10 may also be configured to include a device that performs the action of outputting sound information to the plug in this case instead of the sound input / output unit 16B. Headphones, headsets, etc. are examples of this device.

[0044] The wearing unit 17 is a component for wearing the sound output device 10 on the user's body. Figure 1In the example shown above, as described above, the sound output device 10 is a head-mounted display. In this case, the wearing part 17 wears the sound output device 10 on the user's head so that the user can see the display surface of the display part 15. In this example, the wearing part 17 is a temple. In addition, the wearing part 17 can also be configured to have a pad, ear pads, etc. in addition to the temples. In addition, instead of the temples, as long as the wearing part 17 is a component that can wear the sound output device 10 on the user's head so that the user can see the display surface of the display part 15, it can also be other components.

[0045] Here, in Figure 1 In the example shown, the sound output device 10 is composed of two devices, namely, the sound output device main body 10A and the relay device 10B. In this case, the sound output device main body 10A and the relay device 10B are connected in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with each other. In this example, the sound output device main body 10A and the relay device 10B are connected by a cable in a communicable manner. In addition, the relay device 10B relays the transmission and reception of various information between the sound output device main body 10A and the information processing device 20. That is, in this example, the relay device 10B and the information processing device 20 are connected in a wired or wireless manner so as to be able to communicate with each other. Therefore, in Figure 1 In the example shown above, as described above, the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20 are connected in a communicable manner.

[0046] In addition, in Figure 1 In the example shown, the sound output device main body 10A includes a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a display unit 15, a sound input / output unit 16A, a sound input / output unit 16B, and a wearing part 17. In addition, in this example, the relay device 10B includes an operation unit 13 and a communication unit 14. In addition, the sound output device main body 10A can also be configured to further include at least one of the operation unit 13 and the communication unit 14. In addition, the relay device 10B can also be configured to further include a part or all of the control unit 11, the storage unit 12, the sound input / output unit 16A, and the sound input / output unit 16B. In addition, the sound output device 10 can also be a device in which the sound output device main body 10A and the relay device 10B are integrated.

[0047] The information processing device 20 is, for example, a multifunctional portable telephone terminal (smartphone). In addition, the information processing device 20 can also be other information processing devices such as a mobile phone terminal, a tablet PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a desktop PC, or a workstation instead of the multifunctional mobile phone terminal.

[0048] The information processing device 20 outputs various instructions for controlling the sound output device 10 to the sound output device 10 according to the received operations. The instructions output from the information processing device 20 to the sound output device 10 can be commands or other forms of instructions. Thus, the user can operate the sound output device 10 via the information processing device 20. In other words, the sound output device 10 can receive operations from the information processing device 20.

[0049] In addition, the information processing device 20 can cause the sound output device 10 to output the sound desired by the user by outputting various sound information to the sound output device 10 according to the received operations. These various sound information are, for example, information indicating music, sounds, etc. accompanying the moving images reproduced in the information processing device 20, information indicating the sounds of voice calls made using the information processing device 20, etc., but are not limited to these.

[0050] In addition, the information processing device 20 can output the sound represented by various sound information from the speaker included in the information processing device 20 according to the received operations.

[0051] The information processing device 20 includes a control unit 21, a storage unit 22, an input reception unit 23, a communication unit 24, a display unit 25, and a sound input / output unit 26.

[0052] The control unit 21 controls the entirety of the information processing device 20. The control unit 21 is a processor such as a CPU. The control unit 21 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 22. In addition, the control unit 21 can be composed of multiple hardware components or can be composed of a single processor. In addition, the control unit 21 can also be hardware programmed to implement the various functions of the information processing device 20. That is, the control unit 21 can also be a structure in which various programs stored in the storage unit 22 are mounted as a hardware circuit. In this case, for example, the control unit 21 is composed of an ASIC, an FPGA, etc.

[0053] The storage unit 22 includes, for example, an SSD, an EEPROM, a ROM, a RAM, etc. In addition, the storage unit 22 may not be built into the information processing device 20 but may be an external storage device connected via a digital input / output port such as a USB. The storage unit 22 stores various information processed by the information processing device 20, various programs, etc. In addition, the storage unit 22 can be composed of 1 storage device or can be composed of multiple storage devices.

[0054] The input reception unit 23 is, for example, a touch panel integrated with the display unit 25. In addition, the input reception unit 23 can be other input devices separate from the display unit 25, such as a keyboard or a mouse, instead of the touch panel.

[0055] The communication unit 24 is configured to include, for example, digital input / output ports such as USB, Ethernet (registered trademark) ports, and the like.

[0056] The display unit 25 is a display device including, for example, a liquid crystal display panel, an organic EL display panel, and the like.

[0057] The sound input / output unit 26 is a functional unit that integrates a sound input unit for inputting sound information and a sound output unit for performing the action of outputting sound. For example, the sound input / output unit 26 is a built-in microphone and speaker integrated with the information processing device 20. In this case, the microphone is an example of the sound input unit. In addition, in this case, the speaker is an example of the sound output unit that performs the action of outputting sound. The speaker can be any type of speaker. In addition, the information processing device 20 may be configured to include a built-in speaker integrated with the information processing device 20 as the sound output unit instead of the sound input / output unit 26.

[0058] Here, in the sound output system 1, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, the operation of one or more predetermined first sound output units among the plurality of sound output units is made effective, and the operation of one or more sound output units other than the one or more first sound output units among the plurality of sound output units is made ineffective. In this example, as described above, the sound output device 10 includes two sound input / output units, the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B, as these plurality of sound output units. Therefore, in this example, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, the operation of one of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B is made effective as the operation of the predetermined first sound output unit, and the operation of the other is made ineffective. Thereby, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, it is possible to suppress the output of sound from an unintended sound input / output unit. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the sound input / output unit 16A is the predetermined first sound output unit will be described. In addition, the sound output device 10 may be configured such that, when it includes three or more sound output units, when connected to the information processing device 20, the operation of one or more predetermined sound output units among the three or more sound output units is made effective as the operation of one or more first sound output units, and the operation of one or more sound output units other than the one or more first sound output units among the three or more sound output units is made ineffective. However, in this case, the operations of these one or more first sound output units do not interfere with each other during operation.

[0059] <Output of Sound in Sound Output System>

[0060] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 4 the sound output in the sound output system 1 will be described. Here, in the description of Figure 4 , for the sake of convenience of explanation, as long as it is not necessary to distinguish between sound information or sound output, it will be collectively referred to as sound output for explanation. In the following, for the sake of convenience of description, the state in which the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20 are communicably connected will be referred to as the connected state for explanation. In the following, for the sake of convenience of description, the state in which the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20 are not communicably connected will be referred to as the non-connected state for explanation.

[0061] Figure 4 FIG. is an example showing the relationship between the validity or invalidity of the operations of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B and the sound input / output unit that performs sound output in the sound output system 1.

[0062] As Figure 4 shown, in the sound output system 1, the sound input / output unit that performs sound output is switched according to the validity or invalidity of the operations of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0063] Here, Figure 4 Case 1 shown represents a situation where the operations of both the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are valid and a plug of a headphone or the like is inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In addition, in Figure 4 , [Enable] represents that the operation is valid. In addition, in Figure 4 , [Disable] represents that the operation is invalid. In the sound output system 1 in Case 1, it is not determined which of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B performs the sound output. That is, in the sound output system 1 in Case 1, the sound input / output unit that performs sound output is not fixed. At this time, the sound output is performed by either one or both of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B. Therefore, in the sound output system 1 in Case 1, the sound output may be performed by an undesired sound input / output unit. This is not desirable for the user of the sound output system 1. In addition, in Figure 4 , [CONNECT] represents that the plug is inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In addition, in Figure 4 , [DISCONNECT] represents that the plug is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0064] In addition, Figure 4Case 2 shown indicates a state where the operations of both the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are valid, and a plug such as that of a headphone is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 2, the sound is output by the sound input / output unit 16A. This is because the plug of the headphone or the like is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0065] In addition, Figure 4 Case 3 shown indicates a state where the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is valid, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is invalid, and a plug such as that of a headphone is inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 3, the sound is output by the sound input / output unit 16A.

[0066] In addition, Figure 4 Case 4 shown indicates a state where the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is valid, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is invalid, and a plug such as that of a headphone is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 4, the sound is also output by the sound input / output unit 16A.

[0067] In addition, Figure 4 Case 5 shown indicates a state where the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is invalid, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is valid, and a plug such as that of a headphone is inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 5, the sound is output by the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0068] In addition, Figure 4 Case 6 shown indicates a state where the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is invalid, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is valid, and a plug such as that of a headphone is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 6, the sound is output by the sound input / output unit 26 of the information processing device 20. This is because the plug of the headphone is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0069] In addition, Figure 4 Case 7 shown indicates a state where the operations of both the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are invalid, and the plug of the headphone is inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 7, the sound is also output by the sound input / output unit 26 of the information processing device 20.

[0070] In addition, Figure 4 Case 8 shown indicates a state where the operations of both the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are invalid, and a plug such as that of a headphone is not inserted into the sound input / output unit 16B. In the sound output system 1 of Case 8, the sound is also output by the sound input / output unit 26 of the information processing device 20.

[0071] As described above, in the sound output system 1, the sound input / output unit that outputs sound is switched according to the validity or invalidity of the operations of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B. Moreover, if the sound output system 1 implements Figure 4 the situation 1 shown, when transferring from the non-connected state to the connected state, sound may be output from an unintended sound input / output unit. For example, when the sound output system 1 implements the situation 1, when transferring from the non-connected state to the connected state, sound may be output from both the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0072] Therefore, in the sound output system 1, the sound output device 10 is configured not to implement the situation 1. Specifically, as described above, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is made valid as the operation of the pre-determined first sound output unit, and the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is made invalid. Thereby, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, the implementation of the situation 1 can be suppressed, and as a result, the output of sound from an unintended sound input / output unit can be suppressed.

[0073] <Validity / Invalidity Switching Processing Performed by the Sound Output Device When Connected to the Information Processing Device>

[0074] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 5 the validity / invalidity switching processing performed by the sound output device 10 when connected to the information processing device 20 will be described. Here, the validity / invalidity switching processing is the processing in which the sound output device 10 switches the validity and invalidity of the operations of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the validity / invalidity switching processing performed by the sound output device 10 when connected to the information processing device 20. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the power supplies of the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20 are switched on at a time before the processing of step S110 shown in Figure 5 is executed will be described. In addition, hereinafter, as an example, the case where the sound output device main body 10A and the relay device 10B are communicably connected at this time will be described.

[0075] The control unit 11 waits until the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20 (step S110). In addition, in Figure 5In this case, the process of step S110 is indicated by "Connection?". For example, when a wired or wireless communication is established between the main body 10A of the sound output device and the information processing device 20 through the relay device 10B, the control unit 11 determines that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20. In other words, when a communication is established between the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20, the control unit 11 determines that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20. On the other hand, for example, when this communication is not established, the control unit 11 determines that the sound output device 10 is not connected to the information processing device 20. Here, the control unit 11 may be configured to specify that a wired or wireless communication is established between the main body 10A of the sound output device and the information processing device 20 through the relay device 10B by a known method or a method to be developed. The control unit 11 may be configured to determine that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20 by other methods. For example, when the information indicating the completion of the connection output from the information processing device 20 is acquired, the control unit 11 may determine that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20. This information is an example of the second instruction. When the sound output device 10 detects that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, the control unit 11 may determine that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20. In this case, the sound output device 10 has a detection unit for detecting the connection between the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20.

[0076] When the control unit 11 determines that the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20 (step S110: Yes), it invalidates the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B (step S120). That is, the control unit 11 prohibits the output of sound from the sound input / output unit 16B in step S120. In Figure 5 this case, the process of step S120 is indicated by "Invalidation of the sound input / output unit 16B". In addition, the control unit 11 may perform the process of step S120 by hardware, such as stopping the power supply to the sound input / output unit 16B using a switching element, or may perform the process of step S120 by software, such as stopping the output of sound information to the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0077] Next, as the operation of the first sound input / output unit set in advance, the control unit 11 validates the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A (step S130). That is, the control unit 11 permits the output of sound from the sound input / output unit 16A in step S130. In Figure 5In this case, the processing of step S130 is indicated by "activation of the voice input / output unit 16B". Further, the control unit 11 may perform the processing of step S130 by hardware such as starting power supply to the voice input / output unit 16A using a switching element, or may perform the processing of step S130 by software such as starting output of voice information to the voice input / output unit 16A. In addition, the control unit 11 may be configured to perform the processing of step S120 and the processing of step S130 in parallel.

[0078] Next, the control unit 11 waits until a switching instruction is received from the information processing device 20 (step S140). Here, the switching instruction is an instruction for designating either one of the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B provided in the voice output device 10. Moreover, the switching instruction is an instruction for validating the operation of the voice input / output unit designated by the switching instruction. For example, when the voice input / output unit designated by the switching instruction is the voice input / output unit 16B, the switching instruction is an instruction for validating the operation of the voice input / output unit 16B. In addition, for example, when the voice input / output unit designated by the switching instruction is the voice input / output unit 16A, the switching instruction is an instruction for validating the operation of the voice input / output unit 16A. Further, when the voice output device 10 has three or more voice input / output units, the switching instruction is an instruction for designating any one of the three or more voice input / output units, and is an instruction for validating the operation of the voice input / output unit designated by the switching instruction.

[0079] When the control unit 11 determines that a switching instruction has been received from the information processing device 20 (step S140: YES), it determines which of the voice call state, the voice input / output state, and the non-voice input / output state the state of the information processing device 20 is (step S150). In Figure 5 this case, the processing of step S150 is indicated by "determination of the state of the information processing device". Here, the voice call state is a state in which a voice call is being made in the state of the information processing device 20. The voice input / output state is a state different from the voice call state in the state of the information processing device 20, and is a state in which the information processing device 20 performs input / output of voices other than voice calls. In addition, the input / output of this voice also includes input / output of voice information. For example, the voice input / output state is a state in which the information processing device 20 performs reproduction of a moving image accompanied by voice output, reproduction of music, recording, etc., either partially or in whole. The non-voice input / output state is a state different from both the voice call state and the voice input / output state. That is, the non-voice input / output state is a state in which the information processing device 20 does not perform a voice call and does not perform input / output of voices other than voice calls in the state of the information processing device 20.

[0080] Next, the control unit 11 performs processing corresponding to the state of the information processing device 20 determined in step S150 (step S160). In Figure 5 this, the processing in step S160 is represented by "processing corresponding to the state". Here, the processing in step S160 will be described.

[0081] For example, when the state of the information processing device 20 determined by the control unit 11 in step S150 is the voice call state, as processing corresponding to the voice call state, the control unit 11 performs processing to set the volumes of the voices respectively output from the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B to mute. This is because, when a voice call is made in the information processing device 20, if the voice output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, as long as the volumes of the voices respectively output from the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B are not muted, the voice of the voice call in the information processing device 20 may be unintentionally output from one of the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B. To prevent this, when the state of the information processing device 20 determined by the control unit 11 in step S150 is the voice call state, the control unit 11 performs processing to set the volumes of the voices respectively output from the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B to mute.

[0082] In addition, for example, when the state of the information processing device 20 specified in step S150 is the voice input / output state, the control unit 11 performs processing for stopping the voice input / output of the information processing device 20 as processing corresponding to the voice input / output state. Specifically, when the information processing device 20 reproduces music, moving images, etc., in step S160, the control unit 11 performs processing to stop the reproduction. In addition, when the information processing device 20 performs recording, the control unit 11 performs processing to stop the recording in step S160. This is because, before the user makes the operation of the desired voice input / output unit in the voice output device 10 effective, voices may be output from an unintended voice input / output unit.

[0083] In addition, for example, when the state of the information processing device 20 specified in step S150 is the non-voice input / output state, in step S160, the control unit 11 does not perform processing corresponding to the non-voice input / output state.

[0084] After performing the processing in step S160, the control unit 11 invalidates the operations of both the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B (step S170). In Figure 5In this case, the process of step S170 is expressed as "invalidating". In addition, when the sound output device 10 has three or more sound input / output units, in step S170, the control unit 11 invalidates the operations of all of these three or more sound input / output units. The process of step S170 is a process for more reliably suppressing the accidental occurrence of the above-mentioned situation 1 when switching between the valid and invalid operations of the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B respectively.

[0085] For example, by the control unit 11 performing the process of step S170, when the control unit 11 changes the state from situation 3 to situation 5, as Figure 6 shown, after changing the state from situation 3 to situation 7, the state is changed from situation 7 to situation 5. Figure 6 FIG. is an example showing the state transition by the process of step S170. Here, Figure 6 the situation 3 shown represents Figure 4 the situation 3 shown. In addition, Figure 6 the situation 5 shown represents Figure 4 the situation 5 shown. In addition, Figure 6 the situation 7 shown represents Figure 4 the situation 7 shown. That is, when the control unit 11 transfers from the state where the sound input / output unit performing sound output is the sound input / output unit 16A to the state where the sound input / output unit performing sound output is the sound input / output unit 16B, through the process of step S170, it transfers from the state where the sound input / output unit performing sound output is the sound input / output unit 16A to the state where the sound input / output unit performing sound output is the sound input / output unit 26, and then, from the state where the sound input / output unit performing sound output is the sound input / output unit 26 to the state where the sound input / output unit performing sound output is the sound input / output unit 16B. Thus, the sound output device 10 can more reliably suppress the accidental occurrence of situation 1.

[0086] Next, the control unit 11 validates the operation of the sound input / output unit specified by the switching instruction received in step S140 (step S180). In Figure 5In [the above], the process of step S180 is represented by "activation corresponding to the switching instruction". For example, when the sound input / output unit specified by the switching instruction received by the control unit 11 in step S140 is the sound input / output unit 16B, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is made effective. Additionally, for example, when the sound input / output unit specified by this switching instruction is the sound input / output unit 16A, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is made effective. Thus, after the user of the sound output device 10 connects the sound output device 10 to the information processing device 20, the user can make the operation of the desired sound input / output unit effective via the information processing device 20. After performing the process of step S180, the control unit 11 transfers to step S140 and waits again until a switching instruction is received from the information processing device 20.

[0087] As described above, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A among the two sound input / output units is made effective as the operation of the pre-determined first sound input / output unit, and the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is made ineffective. Thus, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, it is possible to suppress the output of sound from an unintended sound input / output unit.

[0088] Additionally, when the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, after making the operation of the sound input / output unit 16A effective and making the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B ineffective, the operation of the sound input / output unit specified by the switching instruction is made effective corresponding to the received switching instruction. Thus, after the sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20, it is possible to switch the sound input / output unit that outputs sound to the sound input / output unit desired by the user corresponding to the operation received from the user.

[0089] Additionally, when the sound output device 10 makes the operation of either the sound input / output unit 16A or the sound input / output unit 16B effective corresponding to the switching instruction, before making the operation of this sound output unit effective, the operations of both the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are made ineffective, and then the operation of this sound input / output unit is made effective. For example, as Figure 6 shown, when the sound output device 10 switches from case 3 to case 5 corresponding to the switching instruction, it switches from case 3 to case 7, and then from case 7 to case 5. An example of the process to achieve case 7 is Figure 5 the process of step S170 shown. Thus, when the sound output device 10 switches the effectiveness and ineffectiveness of the operations of the two sound input / output units, it is possible to more reliably suppress the accidental occurrence of case 1.

[0090] In addition, when the voice output device 10 activates any one of the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B in response to a switching instruction, before activating the operation of the voice output unit, after performing processing corresponding to the state of the information processing device 20, the operations of both the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B are invalidated, and then the operation of the voice input / output unit is activated. Thereby, the voice output device 10 can more reliably suppress the output of unintended voices from both the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B.

[0091] <Processing performed by the information processing device when a switching operation is received>

[0092] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 7 This describes the processing performed by the information processing device 20 when a switching operation is received. Here, the switching operation is an operation that activates the operation of one of the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B and invalidates the operation of the other of the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the information processing device 20 when a switching operation is received. Hereinafter, as an example, this describes the case of performing Figure 7 the processing of step S130 shown before the processing of step S210 shown. In addition, hereinafter, as an example, this describes the case where, at this time, an operation image P1 is displayed on the display unit 25 of the information processing device 20, and the operation image P1 includes a region RA that displays an image for receiving an operation on the voice output device 10. Figure 5

[0093] The control unit 21 waits until a switching operation is received (step S210). Here, the processing of step S210 is described.

[0094] Figure 8 Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of the operation image P1. The operation image P1 includes the region RA. In the region RA, as an example of an image for receiving an operation on the voice output device 10, an image indicating the voice input / output unit whose operation is effective in the current voice output device 10 is displayed. That is, immediately after performing Figure 9 the processing of step S130 shown, an image P11 is displayed in the region RA, and the image P11 indicates the voice input / output unit 16A as the first voice input / output unit in this example. When an operation of selecting the image P11 is performed, the control unit 21 receives this operation as a switching operation that makes the operation of the voice input / output unit 16B effective and makes the operation of the voice input / output unit 16A ineffective. Then, as Figure 9As shown, the control unit 21 switches the image P11 to the image P12 representing the voice input / output unit 16B. That is, in this case, as Figure 9 shown, the image P12 is displayed in the area RA. Figure 9 FIG. is an example of the operation image P1 when the image P12 is displayed. On the other hand, when an operation of selecting the image P12 is performed, the control unit 21 accepts this operation as a switching operation that enables the operation of the voice input / output unit 16A and disables the operation of the voice input / output unit 16B. Then, as Figure 8 shown, the control unit 21 switches the image P12 to the image P11 representing the voice input / output unit 16A. In addition, the operations of selecting the images P11 and P12 are, for example, touch operations such as tapping, clicking, etc., but are not limited thereto.

[0095] When the control unit 21 determines that a switching operation has been accepted (step S210: Yes), it outputs a switching instruction to the sound output device 10 (step S220). Here, when the switching operation accepted by the control unit 21 is a switching operation that enables the operation of the voice input / output unit 16B, in step S220, the control unit 21 designates the voice input / output unit 16B and outputs a switching instruction to the sound output device 10 to enable the operation of the voice input / output unit 16B. On the other hand, when the switching operation accepted by the control unit 21 is a switching operation that enables the operation of the voice input / output unit 16A, in step S220, the control unit 21 designates the voice input / output unit 16A and outputs a switching instruction to the sound output device 10 to enable the operation of the voice input / output unit 16A.

[0096] Next, the control unit 21 switches the image displayed in the area RA (step S230). Here, when the switching operation accepted in step S210 is an operation of selecting the image P11, in step S230, the control unit 21 switches the image P11 displayed in the area RA to the image P12. On the other hand, when the switching operation accepted in step S210 is an operation of selecting the image P12, in step S230, the control unit 21 switches the image P12 displayed in the area RA to the image P11. After performing the process of step S230, the control unit 21 proceeds to step S210 and waits again until a switching operation is accepted.

[0097] As described above, the information processing device 20 can accept a switching operation to the sound output device 10. More specifically, the information processing device 20 can accept a switching operation and, corresponding to the accepted switching operation, enable the operation of any one of the voice input / output units provided in the sound output device 10. Thus, the information processing device 20 can enable the operation of the voice input / output unit desired by the user among the voice input / output units provided in the sound output device 10.

[0098] <Processing performed by the sound output device when a specified storage start condition is satisfied>

[0099] The following refers to Figure 10 This describes the processing performed by the sound output device 10 when a specified storage start condition is satisfied. Here, the storage start condition is a condition that causes the sound output device 10 to start storing volume information representing the sound volume. The storage start condition includes, for example, the following five conditions A1 to A5.

[0100] (Condition A1): The communication connection between the sound output device 10 and the information processing device 20 is disconnected.

[0101] (Condition A2): The power supply of the information processing device 20 in a state connected to the sound output device 10 is switched off.

[0102] (Condition A3): When the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is valid, the plug is pulled out from the jack of the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0103] (Condition A4): The operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is switched from valid to invalid.

[0104] (Condition A5): The operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is switched from valid to invalid.

[0105] In addition, it can also be configured such that, in the storage start condition, instead of some or all of the five conditions A1 to A5, or in addition to some or all of the five conditions, other conditions are included. The control unit 11 determines that the storage start condition is satisfied, for example, when at least one of the five conditions included in the storage start condition is satisfied. On the other hand, the control unit 11 determines that the storage start condition is not satisfied, for example, when all of the five conditions included in the storage start condition are not satisfied in this case.

[0106] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the processing performed by the sound output device 10 when a specified storage start condition is satisfied.

[0107] The control unit 11 waits until the storage start condition is satisfied (step S310).

[0108] When the control unit 11 determines that the storage start condition is satisfied (step S310: Yes), it determines the voice input / output unit on the active side between the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B. Then, the control unit 11 determines the volume of the voice output from the determined voice input / output unit (step S320). For example, when the control unit 11 determines in step S320 that the operation of the voice input / output unit 16A is active, it determines the volume of the voice output from the voice input / output unit 16A. Additionally, for example, when the control unit 11 determines in step S320 that the operation of the voice input / output unit 16B is active, it determines the volume of the voice output from the device with the plug inserted into the voice input / output unit 16B.

[0109] Next, the control unit 11 generates volume information (step S330). Here, for example, when the voice input / output unit determined in step S320 is the voice input / output unit 16A, the control unit 11 generates information including the information indicating the volume determined in step S320 and the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16A as the volume information indicating the volume. Additionally, for example, when the voice input / output unit determined in step S320 is the voice input / output unit 16B, the control unit 11 generates information including the information indicating the volume determined in step S320 and the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16B as the volume information indicating the volume.

[0110] Next, the control unit 11 causes the storage unit 12 to store the volume information generated in step S330 (step S340). Further, when the control unit 11 causes the storage unit 12 to store the volume information including the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16A, if the volume information is already stored in the storage unit 12, it updates the volume information to the new volume information. Additionally, when the control unit 11 causes the storage unit 12 to store the volume information including the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16B, if the volume information is already stored in the storage unit 12, it updates the volume information to the new volume information. After performing the process of step S340, the control unit 11 transfers to step S310 and waits again until the storage start condition is satisfied.

[0111] As described above, the voice output device 10 can store the volume information each time the specified storage start condition is satisfied. Thus, through the processing of the flowchart Figure 11 shown, whenever the read start condition described later is satisfied, without accepting the operation from the user, the voice output device 10 can set the volumes of the voices output from the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B to the same volumes as the volumes previously set by the user.

[0112] <Processing performed by the sound output device when the specified read start condition is satisfied>

[0113] The following refers to Figure 11 This describes the processing performed by the sound output device 10 when the specified read start condition is satisfied. Here, the read start condition is a condition that causes the sound output device 10 to start reading the volume information pre-stored in the storage unit 12 from the storage unit 12. Among the read start conditions, for example, the following five conditions, condition B1 to condition B5, are included.

[0114] (Condition B1): The sound output device 10 is connected to the information processing device 20.

[0115] (Condition B2): The power supply of the information processing device 20 in a state connected to the sound output device 10 is switched on.

[0116] (Condition B3): When the operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is valid, a plug is inserted into the jack of the sound input / output unit 16B.

[0117] (Condition B4): The operation of the sound input / output unit 16A is switched from invalid to valid.

[0118] (Condition B5): The operation of the sound input / output unit 16B is switched from invalid to valid.

[0119] In addition, it can also be configured that, among the read start conditions, instead of some or all of the five conditions of condition B1 to condition B5, or in addition to some or all of the five conditions, other conditions are included. The control unit 11 determines that the read start condition is satisfied, for example, when at least one of the five conditions included in the read start condition is satisfied. On the other hand, the control unit 11 determines that the read start condition is not satisfied, for example, when all of the five conditions included in the read start condition are not satisfied in this case.

[0120] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing an example of the flow of the processing performed by the sound output device 10 when the specified read start condition is satisfied.

[0121] The control unit 11 waits until the read start condition is satisfied (step S410).

[0122] When the control unit 11 determines that the read start condition is satisfied (step S410: Yes), it determines the voice input / output unit on the active side between the voice input / output unit 16A and the voice input / output unit 16B. Then, the control unit 11 reads out the volume information including the information identifying the determined voice input / output unit from the storage unit 12 (step S420). For example, when the control unit 11 determines in step S420 that the voice input / output unit 16A is active, it reads out the volume information including the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16A from the storage unit 12. Additionally, for example, when the control unit 11 determines in step S320 that the voice input / output unit 16B is active, it reads out the volume information including the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16B from the storage unit 12. Further, in the storage unit 12 before the processing of the flowchart shown in Figure 10 it is also possible to store, together with the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16A, the volume information including the information indicating the default volume as the volume of the voice output from the voice input / output unit 16A, or it is also possible not to store this volume information. Additionally, in the storage unit 12 before the processing of the flowchart shown in Figure 10 it is possible to store, together with the information identifying the voice input / output unit 16B, the volume information including the information indicating the default volume as the volume of the voice output from the voice input / output unit 16B, or it is also possible not to store this volume information.

[0123] Next, the control unit 11 determines the volume indicated by the volume information read out in step S420 (step S430).

[0124] Next, the control unit 11 sets the volume of the voice output from the voice input / output unit indicated by the information included in the volume information read out in step S420 to the volume indicated by the information included in this volume information (step S440). Here, for example, when the voice input / output unit identified by the information included in the volume information read out in step S420 is the voice input / output unit 16A, the control unit 11 sets the volume of the voice output from the voice input / output unit 16A to the volume determined in step S430. Additionally, for example, when the voice input / output unit identified by the information included in the volume information read out in step S420 is the voice input / output unit 16B, the control unit 11 sets the volume of the voice output from the voice input / output unit 16B to the volume determined in step S430. After the processing of step S440, the control unit 11 transfers to step S410 and waits again until the read start condition is satisfied.

[0125] As described above, each time the specified read start condition is satisfied, the sound output device 10 can set the volumes of the sounds output from the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B to the same volumes as the volumes previously set by the user without receiving an operation from the user.

[0126] As described above, the sound output device of the embodiment is connected to the information processing device in a communicable manner, and includes: a wearing unit that wears the sound output device on a human body; a plurality of sound output units that output information representing sound or perform an action of sound; and a control unit that, when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, enables the actions of one or more predetermined first sound output units among the plurality of sound output units and disables the actions of one or more sound output units other than the one or more first sound output units. Thereby, when the sound output device is connected to the information processing device, it is possible to suppress the output of sound from an unintended sound output unit. In the example described above, the sound output device 10 is an example of this sound output device. In addition, in the example described above, the information processing device 20 is an example of this information processing device. Further, in the example described above, the wearing unit 17 is an example of this wearing unit. Further, in the example described above, the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are each an example of a sound output unit. In addition, in the example described above, the sound input / output unit 16A is an example of a first sound output unit. Further, in the example described above, the control unit 11 is an example of this control unit.

[0127] In addition, in the sound output device, when the control unit is connected to the information processing device, it enables the actions of one or more first sound output units and disables the actions of one or more sound output units, and then, according to the received first instruction, enables the action of the second sound output unit specified by the first instruction among the plurality of sound output units. Here, in the example described above, the switching instruction is an example of the first instruction. In addition, in the example described above, the sound input / output unit 16A and the sound input / output unit 16B are each an example of a second sound output unit.

[0128] Further, in the sound output device, when the control unit enables the action of the second sound output unit according to the first instruction, it may disable the actions of all the plurality of sound output units before enabling the action of the second sound output unit, and then enable the action of the second sound output unit.

[0129] In addition, in the sound output device, when the control unit enables the operation of the second sound output unit according to the first instruction, before enabling the operation of the second sound output unit, the control unit may perform processing corresponding to the state of the information processing device, then disable the operations of all the plurality of sound output units, and then enable the operation of the second sound output unit.

[0130] In addition, in the sound output device, a structure may also be used in which some or all of the plurality of sound output units are sound input / output units integrated with a sound input unit that inputs information representing sound.

[0131] In addition, in the sound output device, when connected to the information processing device, the control unit may enable the operations of one or more first sound output units and disable the operations of one or more sound output units according to a second instruction received from the information processing device.

[0132] Furthermore, in the sound output device, a detection unit for detecting the connection to the information processing device may be provided. When the detection unit detects the connection to the information processing device, the control unit enables the operations of one or more first sound output units and disables the operations of one or more sound output units.

[0133] Furthermore, a structure may be used in which, in the sound output device, the plurality of sound output units include: a device having a jack that outputs information representing sound to a plug when the plug is inserted into the jack; and a speaker that outputs sound.

[0134] In addition, a structure may be used in which the sound output device is a wearable display device that also includes a display unit for displaying images. Here, in the example described above, the wearable display device is a head-mounted display.

[0135] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and changes, replacements, deletions, etc. may be made as long as the gist of the present invention is not deviated from.

[0136] In addition, a program for implementing the functions of any component in the devices described above can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the computer system can read and execute this program. Such devices include, for example, the sound output device 10, the sound output device main body 10A, the relay device 10B, the information processing device 20, etc. In addition, the "computer system" mentioned here includes hardware such as an OS (Operating System) and peripheral devices. In addition, the so-called "computer-readable recording medium" is a removable medium such as a floppy disk, an optical disk, a ROM, a CD (Compact Disk)-ROM, or a storage device such as a hard disk built into the computer system. Furthermore, the "computer-readable recording medium" includes a medium that holds the program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory (RAM) inside a computer system that serves as a server or a client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0137] In addition, the above-mentioned program can also be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by means of a carrier wave in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program is a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication wire) such as a telephone line.

[0138] In addition, the above-mentioned program can also be used to implement a part of the above functions. Moreover, the above-mentioned program can also be a so-called differential file (differential program) that can implement the above functions through combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

Claims

1. A sound output device, comprising: a main body provided with a wearing part for wearing on a human body, a display part for displaying an image in a visible manner when worn on the body, and a first sound output part including a speaker for outputting sound; and a relay device provided with a communication part communicably connected to an information processing device and a second sound output part having a jack, and when a plug is inserted into the jack, the second sound output part performs an operation of outputting information representing sound to the plug, the main body is provided with a control part that determines whether the operation of the first sound output part is effective and whether the operation of the second sound output part is effective, when the communication part is connected to the information processing device and the operations of the first sound output part and the second sound output part are effective, the control part invalidates the operation of the second sound output part and causes the first sound output part to output sound.

2. The sound output device according to claim 1, wherein when the communication part is connected to the information processing device and the operations of the first sound output part and the second sound output part are effective, after invalidating the operation of the second sound output part, the control part validates the operation of the second sound output part according to a received first instruction, and causes the second sound output part to output information representing sound to the plug.

3. The sound output device according to claim 2, wherein when the control part validates the operation of the second sound output part according to the first instruction, before validating the operation of the second sound output part, the control part invalidates the operation of the first sound output part, and then validates the operation of the second sound output part.

4. The sound output device according to claim 3, wherein when the control part validates the operation of the second sound output part according to the first instruction, before validating the operation of the second sound output part, after performing processing corresponding to the state of the information processing device, the control part invalidates the operation of the first sound output part, and then validates the operation of the second sound output part.

5. The sound output device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first sound output part includes a microphone for inputting information representing sound.

6. The sound output device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein when the communication part is connected to the information processing device and the operations of the first sound output part and the second sound output part are effective, the control part invalidates the operation of the second sound output part according to a second instruction received from the information processing device, and causes the first sound output part to output sound.

7. The sound output device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sound output device has a detection part that detects the connection situation between the communication part and the information processing device. When the detection unit detects that the communication unit is connected to the information processing device and the operations of the first sound output unit and the second sound output unit are effective, the control unit invalidates the operation of the second sound output unit and causes the first sound output unit to output sound.

8. A sound output system, comprising: The sound output device according to any one of claims 1 to 7; and The information processing device.

9. A control method for a sound output device, the sound output device including: a main body provided with a wearing part to be worn on a person's body, a display part configured to display an image so as to be visible when worn on the body, and a first sound output part including a speaker that outputs sound; and a relay device provided with a communication part communicably connected to an information processing device and a second sound output part having a jack, and when a plug is inserted into the jack, the second sound output part performs an operation of outputting information representing sound to the plug. The control method includes the following steps: Determining whether the operation of the first sound output part is effective; Determining whether the operation of the second sound output part is effective; Determining whether the communication part is connected to the information processing device; In a first case where the communication part is connected to the information processing device and the operations of the first sound output part and the second sound output part are effective, invalidating the operation of the second sound output part; And In the first case, causing the first sound output part to output sound.

Images