Sound input / output control apparatus and method, and storage medium

Abstract

The present application provides a sound input / output control device, a sound input / output control method, and a program that can give a wider range of uses to a sound output device. The sound input / output control device (200) includes a distance determination section (201) that determines whether a distance between at least two of a plurality of sound output devices (100) that are independently worn by a user and output sound to the user is a prescribed distance or more, and an action control section (202) that controls each sound output device (100) to perform a first action when the distance between at least two of the plurality of sound output devices (100) is less than the prescribed distance, and controls each sound output device (100) to perform a second action when the distance between at least two of the plurality of sound output devices (100) is the prescribed distance or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a sound input / output control device, a sound input / output control method, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an earphone that receives streaming audio data via an ad hoc wireless network and an infrastructure wireless network. Specifically, when the data source is within communication range of the earphone via the ad hoc wireless network, the earphone receives streaming audio data from the data source via the ad hoc wireless network. Conversely, when the data source is not within communication range of the earphone via the ad hoc wireless network, the earphone receives streaming audio data via the infrastructure wireless network.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-524653. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Furthermore, in recent years, truly wireless earbuds (TWS: True Wireless Stereo) with completely wireless left and right earpieces have become increasingly popular. These earbuds output sound in stereo through the left and right earpieces. The inventors have conceived of a technology that allows for operating modes beyond the usual stereo sound output mode among multiple sound output devices that can be used independently, similar to truly wireless earbuds.

[0007] The purpose of this embodiment is to provide a sound input / output control device, sound input / output control method, and program that can give sound output devices a wider range of uses.

[0008] This embodiment relates to a sound input / output control device that controls multiple sound output devices worn independently by a user and outputting sound to the user. The sound input / output control device includes: a distance determination unit that determines whether the distance between at least two of the multiple sound output devices is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance; and an action control unit that, when the distance determination unit determines that the distance between at least two of the multiple sound output devices is less than the predetermined distance, controls each of the sound output devices to perform a first action, and when the distance determination unit determines that the distance between at least two of the multiple sound output devices is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance, controls each of the sound output devices to perform a second action.

[0009] This embodiment relates to a sound input / output control method, which uses a sound input / output control device to control multiple sound output devices. These multiple sound output devices are worn independently by a user and output sound to the user. The sound input / output control device determines whether the distance between at least two of the multiple sound output devices is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. When it is determined that the distance between at least two of the multiple sound output devices is less than the predetermined distance, it controls each of the sound output devices to perform a first action. When it is determined that the distance between at least two of the multiple sound output devices is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance, it controls each of the sound output devices to perform a second action.

[0010] This embodiment relates to a program that causes a sound input / output control device to perform processing to control a plurality of sound output devices, which are worn independently by a user and output sound to the user. The program causes the sound input / output control device to perform the following processing: determining whether the distance between at least two of the plurality of sound output devices is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance; when it is determined that the distance between at least two of the plurality of sound output devices is less than or equal to a predetermined distance, controlling each of the sound output devices to perform a first action; and when it is determined that the distance between at least two of the plurality of sound output devices is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance, controlling each of the sound output devices to perform a second action.

[0011] According to this embodiment, a sound input / output control device, a sound input / output control method, and a program can be provided that can give sound output devices a wider range of uses. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the sound input / output control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0013] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the sound input / output control method according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating other examples of the sound input / output control method according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0015] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating other examples of the sound input / output control method according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0016] Figure 5 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the sound input / output control device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the sound input / output control method according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 7 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating other examples of the sound input / output control device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 8 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating other examples of the sound input / output control device according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Implementation Method 1

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the sound input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The sound input / output control device 200 controls... Figure 1 The operation of the sound output device 100 is shown. Specifically, the sound input / output control device 200 controls multiple sound output devices 100, which are independently worn by the user and output sound to the user. Thus, the sound input / output control device 200 can give the sound output devices 100 a wider range of uses.

[0023] The sound output devices 100 are completely independent headphones, such as fully wireless headphones or fully wireless bone conduction headphones, which are worn independently on the user's left and right ears. That is, multiple sound output devices 100 are worn by the user completely independently of each other. Typically, fully wireless headphones or fully wireless bone conduction headphones are paired up in pairs. However, in this invention, three or more sound output devices 100 can be grouped together. The multiple sound output devices 100 can be worn independently on the user's cheekbones, or can be neckband speakers or wearable speakers. The sound output devices 100 are not limited to fully wireless types; some can also be wired.

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, the sound output device 100 according to Embodiment 1 includes a signal status acquisition unit 101, a sound output unit 102, a sound input unit 103, a first communication unit 104, and a second communication unit 105. Furthermore, as long as at least one sound output device 100 in a group of sound output devices 100 includes the signal status acquisition unit 101 and the sound input unit 103, the other sound output devices 100 may not include the signal status acquisition unit 101 and the sound input unit 103. Alternatively, all of the sound output devices 100 in a group may not include the sound input unit 103.

[0025] The signal status acquisition unit 101 acquires the signal status during communication between multiple audio output devices 100. Here, signal status refers to the receiving sensitivity of the audio output device 100 equipped with the signal status acquisition unit 101 when receiving signals from other audio output devices 100. Examples of communication between multiple audio output devices 100 include Near Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) communication, wireless LAN such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, infrared communication, and short-range wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication). The signal status acquired by the signal status acquisition unit 101 is transmitted to the audio input / output control device 200 via the first communication unit 104. Furthermore, the signal status acquisition unit 101 can be provided in all audio output devices 100 of a group of audio output devices 100, or in at least one audio output device 100. When only one of the sound output devices 100 in a group of sound output devices 100 has a signal status acquisition unit 101, the sound output device 100 with the signal status acquisition unit 101 can be used as the master device and the other sound output devices 100 can be used as slave devices.

[0026] Furthermore, the communication format of the signal state acquired by the signal state acquisition unit 101 may differ from the communication format used in the transmission and reception of audio signals between the multiple audio output devices 100. For example, if near-field magnetic induction communication or wireless LAN is used in the transmission and reception of audio signals between the multiple audio output devices 100, the signal state acquisition unit 101 may also acquire the receiving sensitivity of infrared communication between the multiple audio output devices 100 as the aforementioned signal state.

[0027] The sound output unit 102 includes a speaker or bone conduction speaker, and outputs sound to the user according to the sound signals obtained from portable devices such as smartphones, DAPs (Digital Audio Players), CD players, and other music playback devices (not shown). The sound signals from the music playback device can be received via the sound input / output control device 200 through the first communication unit 104, or they can be received directly through the first communication unit 104 without going through the sound input / output control device 200.

[0028] Alternatively, the sound output unit 102 may output sound to the user in accordance with the sound signal received by the second communication unit 105 from the other sound output device 100. Specifically, the sound input unit 103 of the other sound output device 100 acquires a sound signal by picking up sound, and the sound output unit 102 outputs the sound in accordance with the sound signal received by the second communication unit 105 from the other sound output device 100.

[0029] The sound input unit 103, such as a microphone, picks up the voice of a user wearing the sound output device 100 to acquire a sound signal. Furthermore, the sound input unit 103 can pick up the user's voice while the user is wearing the sound output device 100. The sound signal acquired by the sound input unit 103 is transmitted by the second communication unit 105 to the sound input / output control device 200 or other sound output devices 100. The sound input unit 103 can be provided in all the sound output devices 100 in a group of sound output devices 100, or it can be provided in at least one sound output device 100. When only one sound output device 100 in a group of sound output devices 100 has a sound input unit 103, the sound output device 100 with the sound input unit 103 can be used as the master device, and the other sound output devices 100 can be used as slave devices.

[0030] The first communication unit 104 performs communication between the sound output device 100 and other sound output devices 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music playback device (not shown). For example, the first communication unit 104 transmits and receives sound signals between the sound output device 100 and other sound output devices 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music playback device. Additionally, the first communication unit 104 sends signal status signals from the sound output device 100 to the sound input / output control device 200. Furthermore, the first communication unit 104 receives control signals from the sound input / output control device 200 for controlling the sound output device 100.

[0031] Communication between the audio output devices 100 via the first communication unit 104 includes near-field magnetic induction (NFMI) communication, wireless LAN such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, infrared communication, and short-range wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication). The type of communication used for communication between the audio output devices 100 via the first communication unit 104 can be switched according to the distance between the audio output devices 100.

[0032] The communication between the sound output device 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music playback device via the first communication unit 104 can be wireless LAN such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared communication, or short-range wireless communication such as NFC. The type of communication used for communication between the sound output device 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music playback device via the first communication unit 104 can be switched according to the distance between the sound output device 100 and the sound input / output control device 200 and the music playback device.

[0033] The second communication unit 105 performs communication between the sound output device 100 equipped with the second communication unit 105 and other sound output devices 100 or the aforementioned music reproduction device (not shown). For example, the second communication unit 105 performs the transmission and reception of sound signals between the sound output device 100 and other sound output devices 100.

[0034] Communication between the audio output devices 100 via the second communication unit 105 can be wireless LAN such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared communication, or short-range wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication). The type of communication used for communication between the audio output devices 100 via the second communication unit 105 can be switched based on the distance between the audio output devices 100.

[0035] Alternatively, the first communication unit 104 and the second communication unit 105 can also be a single communication unit. In this case, the communication between the sound output device 100 and other sound output devices 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music reproduction device (not shown) can be near-field magnetic induction communication, wireless LAN such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared communication, or short-range wireless communication such as NFC. Furthermore, the type of communication used can be switched based on the distance between the sound output device 100 and other sound output devices 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music reproduction device (not shown). Moreover, even when using the same type of communication, the signal output strength can be switched based on the distance between the sound output device 100 and other sound output devices 100, the sound input / output control device 200, and the music reproduction device (not shown). For example, in the communication of sound signals between the sound output devices 100, communication can be performed in a mode with low output strength.

[0036] As described above, the sound input / output control device 200 controls multiple sound output devices 100, which are worn independently by a user and output sound to that user. For example, the sound input / output control device 200 controls at least two sound output devices 100 in a group of sound output devices 100. Figure 1 As shown, the sound input / output control device 200 includes a distance determination unit 201, an action control unit 202, a sound input / output processing unit 203, and a communication unit 204.

[0037] The distance determination unit 201 determines whether the distance between the plurality of audio output devices 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. Specifically, the distance determination unit 201 determines whether the distance between the plurality of audio output devices 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance based on the signal state in the communication between the plurality of audio output devices 100. More specifically, the communication unit 204 of the audio input / output control device 200 receives, as a signal state, the reception sensitivity of the signal received by at least one audio output device 100 from the other audio output devices 100 of a group of audio output devices 100. Then, the distance determination unit 201 determines whether the distance between the audio output device 100 and other audio output devices is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance based on the signal state (reception sensitivity) received by the communication unit 204. Here, the predetermined distance refers to the distance used to determine whether each of the audio output devices 100 is worn by the same user, for example, 1m or 50cm. For example, if the specified distance is 1m, the distance determination unit 201 determines that the distance between the multiple audio output devices 100 is a specified distance (here, 1m) or more if the receiving sensitivity is less than the communication limit strength when the distance between the multiple audio output devices 100 is 1m.

[0038] The motion control unit 202 controls the operation of each of the 1 set of sound output devices 100.

[0039] Specifically, when the distance determination unit 201 determines that the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 is less than a predetermined distance, the motion control unit 202 controls each of the sound output devices 100 to perform a first action suitable for each of the sound output devices 100 being worn by the same user, such as reproducing the sound signal obtained from the music reproduction device in stereo mode. Alternatively, the motion control unit 202 may, when determining that the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 is less than a predetermined distance, not perform the determined action as the first action, but instead perform a user-specified action or continue with normal operation. In other words, the first action may not be a specifically specified action.

[0040] Furthermore, if the distance determination unit 201 determines that the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 is greater than a predetermined distance, the motion control unit 202 controls each of the sound output devices 100 to perform a second action suitable for each of the sound output devices 100 when it is worn by a different user, such as reproducing the sound signal obtained from the music reproduction device in mono mode.

[0041] The details of the first and second actions mentioned above will be described later.

[0042] Therefore, in the case where a group of sound output devices 100 consists of two sound output devices 100, the sound input / output control device 200 of Embodiment 1 determines that the two sound output devices 100 are worn by the same user if the distance between the two sound output devices 100 is less than a predetermined distance. Then, the sound input / output control device 200 controls the two sound output devices 100 to perform the aforementioned first action.

[0043] Furthermore, when a group of audio output devices 100 consists of two audio output devices 100, and the distance between the two audio output devices 100 is greater than a predetermined distance, the audio input / output control device 200 determines that the two audio output devices 100 are worn by different users. Then, the audio input / output control device 200 controls the two audio output devices 100 to perform the aforementioned second action.

[0044] Furthermore, if a group of audio output devices 100 consists of three or more audio output devices 100, and the distance between two audio output devices 100 in the group is less than a predetermined distance, the audio input / output control device 200 determines that the two audio output devices 100 are worn by the same user. Simultaneously, if there are other audio output devices 100 in the group whose distance between them is greater than the predetermined distance, the audio input / output control device 200 determines that the other audio output devices 100 in the group are worn by different users. Then, the audio input / output control device 200 controls the two audio output devices 100 in the manner described in the first action, and controls the other audio output devices 100 in the manner described in the second action.

[0045] Furthermore, if a group of audio output devices 100 consists of three or more audio output devices 100, and the distance between these audio output devices 100 is greater than a predetermined distance, the audio input / output control device 200 determines that these audio output devices 100 are all worn by different users. Then, the audio input / output control device 200 controls these audio output devices 100 to perform the aforementioned second action.

[0046] The sound input / output processing unit 203 performs prescribed processing on the sound signals received by the communication unit 204 from the music playback device (not shown), generating sound signals to be transmitted to each sound output device 100. For example, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates stereo sound signals or mono sound signals. Then, the sound signals generated by the sound input / output processing unit 203 are transmitted to each sound output device 100 via the communication unit 204.

[0047] For example, when a set of sound output devices 100 consists of a sound output device 100 for the right ear and a sound output device 100 for the left ear, and these sound output devices 100 are worn by the same user, as a first action, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates a sound signal for the right ear and a sound signal for the left ear, and the communication unit 204 sends the sound signal for the right ear generated by the sound input / output processing unit 203 to the sound output device 100 for the right ear, and sends the sound signal for the left ear generated by the sound input / output processing unit 203 to the sound output device 100 for the left ear. In other words, the first action is the reproduction of the stereo sound signal (single-person mode).

[0048] In addition, when a set of sound output devices 100 are worn by different users, as a second action, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates a mono sound signal, and the communication unit 204 sends the mono sound signal to each sound output device 100.

[0049] When a set of audio output devices 100 are worn by different users, as a second action, the audio input / output processing unit 203 can acquire the audio signal picked up by the audio input unit 103, and the communication unit 205 can send the picked-up audio signal to other audio output devices 100. In other words, the second action can be a communication action (transceiver mode) between different users of the audio output devices 100. Furthermore, the transceiver mode can be unidirectional transmission and reception, or it can be bidirectional transmission and reception.

[0050] As will be described later, the second action can also be an action mode that allows for separate setting of sound output volume or sound quality adjustment.

[0051] The communication unit 204 performs communication between the sound input / output control device 200, the sound output device 100, and the music reproduction device (not shown).

[0052] The communication between the sound input / output control device 200, the sound output device 100, and the music playback device can be via wireless LAN such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), infrared communication, or short-range wireless communication such as NFC. The type of communication used between the sound input / output control device 200 and the sound output device 100 and the music playback device can be switched based on the distance between them.

[0053] Alternatively, the sound input / output control device 200 can be integrated with portable devices such as smartphones, DAPs, CD players, and other music playback devices. In this case, the communication unit 204 performs communication between the sound input / output control device 200 and the sound output device 100. Furthermore, an application program can be installed to enable the music playback device to perform the aforementioned functions of the sound input / output control device 200.

[0054] Next, refer to Figures 2-4 An example of the sound input / output control method according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below. Furthermore, in the following description, an example will be given where a set of sound output devices 100 consists of two sound output devices 100, with one sound output device 100 serving as the master device and the other as the slave device. Additionally, when the two sound output devices 100 are worn by the same user, one sound output device 100 is used for the left ear and the other sound output device 100 is used for the right ear.

[0055] First of all, Figure 2 The example shown illustrates the sound input / output control method.

[0056] First, the signal status acquisition unit 101 of the sound output device 100, which is the master device, acquires the signal status of the communication between the sound output device 100 and the sound output device 100, which is the slave device (step S101). In addition, the signal status acquired by the signal status acquisition unit 101 is sent to the sound input / output control device 200 through the first communication unit 104.

[0057] Next, the distance determination unit 201 determines whether the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance based on the signal state obtained in step S101 (step S102).

[0058] In step S102, if the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 100 is less than a predetermined distance (step S102; Yes), the action control unit 202 performs control to make the sound output device 100 for the right ear and the sound output device 100 for the left ear operate in sound output mode (first action) (step S103).

[0059] Then, normal operation is performed in the right ear sound output device 100 and the left ear sound output device 100 (step S104). Specifically, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates a sound signal for the right ear and a sound signal for the left ear, and the communication unit 204 sends the sound signal for the right ear to the right ear sound output device 100 and the sound signal for the left ear to the left ear sound output device 100. Then, the sound output unit 102 of the right ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user according to the right ear sound signal, and the sound output unit 102 of the left ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user according to the left ear sound signal.

[0060] In step S102, if the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 100 is greater than a predetermined distance (step S102; no), the action control unit 202 performs control to make the sound output device 100 for the right ear and the sound output device 100 for the left ear operate in transceiver mode (second action) (step S105).

[0061] Then, the user's voice signal picked up by the microphone (voice input section) 103 of one sound output device 100 is sent to another sound output device 100. The other sound output device 100 receives the voice signal, and its sound output section 102 outputs sound to the user according to the voice signal (step S106). For example, the voice of a user wearing the right ear sound output device 100 is picked up by the microphone (voice input section) 103 of the right ear sound output device 100 and sent to the left ear sound output device 100. Then, the sound output section 102 of the left ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user wearing the left ear sound output device 100 according to the voice signal. Conversely, the voice of a user wearing the left ear sound output device 100 is picked up by the microphone (voice input section) 103 of the left ear sound output device 100 and sent to the right ear sound output device 100. Then, the sound output section 102 of the right ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user wearing the right ear sound output device 100 according to the sound signal. Thus, when the right ear sound output device 100 and the left ear sound output device 100 are worn by different users, the right ear sound output device 100 and the left ear sound output device 100 can be used as transceivers.

[0062] Furthermore, in the transceiver mode described above, the motion control unit 202 can control the sound output device 100 to stop the output of sound based on the sound signal from the sound output device 102, or to reduce the volume of the output sound based on the sound signal. Additionally, in the transceiver mode described above, the motion control unit 202 can control the sound output device 100 to stop the pickup of the sound input unit 103 of either the right ear sound output device 100 or the left ear sound output device 100.

[0063] Next, regarding Figure 3 The example shown illustrates the sound input / output control method. Figure 3 In the sound input / output control method shown, the processing of steps S201, S202, and S204 is respectively related to... Figure 2 The steps S101, S102, and S104 of the sound input / output control method shown are the same, so their descriptions are omitted.

[0064] In step S202, if the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 is less than a predetermined distance (step S202; Yes), the motion control unit 202 controls the sound output device 100 for the right ear and the sound output device 100 for the left ear to operate in a single-person mode (first action) (step S203).

[0065] In step S202, if the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 is greater than a predetermined distance (step S202; no), the motion control unit 202 controls the sound output device 100 for the right ear and the sound output device 100 for the left ear to operate in a dual-person mode (second action) (step S205).

[0066] Then, the music is reproduced in mono mode in the right ear sound output device 100 and the left ear sound output device 100 (step S206). Specifically, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates a mono mode sound signal, and the communication unit 204 sends the mono mode sound signal to the right ear sound output device 100 and the left ear sound output device 100. Then, the sound output section 102 of the right ear sound output device 100 and the sound output section 102 of the left ear sound output device 100 output sound to the user according to the mono mode sound signal.

[0067] Next, regarding Figure 4 The example shown illustrates the sound input / output control method. Figure 4 In the sound input / output control method shown, the processing of steps S301, S302, S303, and S305 are respectively related to... Figure 3 The steps S201, S202, S203, and S205 of the sound input / output control method shown are the same, so their descriptions are omitted.

[0068] In step S303, after controlling the right and left ear sound output devices 100 to operate in single-person mode (first action), the volume or sound quality of the right and left ear sound output devices 100 are simultaneously adjusted (normal action) (step S304). Specifically, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates a right ear sound signal and a left ear sound signal, and the communication unit 204 sends the right ear sound signal to the right ear sound output device 100 and the left ear sound signal to the left ear sound output device 100. In addition, the action control unit 202, for example, simultaneously adjusts the volume and sound quality of the sound output units 102 in the right and left ear sound output devices 100 to be substantially the same. Then, the sound output unit 102 of the right ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user according to the right ear sound signal, and the sound output unit 102 of the left ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user according to the left ear sound signal.

[0069] In step S305, after controlling the right and left ear sound output devices 100 to operate in dual-person mode (second action), the volume and sound quality of the right and left ear sound output devices 100 are adjusted independently (step S306). Specifically, the sound input / output processing unit 203 generates a sound signal for the right ear and a sound signal for the left ear, and the communication unit 204 sends the sound signal for the right ear to the right ear sound output device 100 and the sound signal for the left ear to the left ear sound output device 100. In addition, the action control unit 202 can, for example, adjust the volume and sound quality of the sound output unit 102 in the right and left ear sound output devices 100 respectively. For example, the sound input / output control device 200 or the music reproduction device displays a setting screen for adjusting the volume or sound quality of the right ear and a setting screen for adjusting the volume or sound quality of the left ear on its own display unit (not shown). Therefore, users wearing the right-ear sound output device 100 and users wearing the left-ear sound output device 100 can set the volume and sound quality of the right-ear and left-ear sound output devices 100 to their preferred levels by operating their respective setting screens. Then, the sound output section 102 of the right-ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user according to the right-ear sound signal, and the sound output section 102 of the left-ear sound output device 100 outputs sound to the user according to the left-ear sound signal.

[0070] Implementation Method 2

[0071] Figure 5 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating the structure of the sound input / output control device 400 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. The sound input / output control device 400 controls the sound input / output in the same manner as in Embodiment 1. Figure 5 The operation of the sound output device 300 is shown. That is, the sound input / output control device 400 controls multiple sound output devices 300, which are worn independently by the user and output sound to the user. Thus, the sound input / output control device 400 can give the sound output devices 300 a wider range of uses.

[0072] like Figure 5 As shown, the sound output device 300 according to Embodiment 2 includes a position sensor 301, a sound output unit 102, a sound input unit 103, a first communication unit 104, and a second communication unit 105. Furthermore, as long as at least one of the sound output devices 100 in a group has a sound input unit 103, the other sound output devices 100 may not have a sound input unit 103. Alternatively, all of the sound output devices 100 in a group may not have a sound input unit 103.

[0073] Furthermore, the sound output device 300 differs from the sound output device 100 of Embodiment 1 in that it includes a position sensor 301 instead of a signal status acquisition unit 101. That is, the other structures of the sound output device 300 are the same as those of the sound output device 100 of Embodiment 1. Therefore, for structures in the sound output device 300 that are the same as those in the sound output device 100 of Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals are used, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0074] Position sensor 301 acquires a position signal, which is used to calculate the position of the audio output device 300 equipped with position sensor 301. Position sensor 301 is, for example, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver, a beacon receiver, etc. When position sensor 301 is a GNSS receiver, it acquires GNSS signals transmitted from four or more GNSS satellites as its position signal. Alternatively, when position sensor 301 is a beacon receiver, it acquires beacon signals transmitted from multiple beacon transmitters as its position signal. The position signal acquired by position sensor 301 is transmitted to audio input / output control device 400 via first communication unit 104. Furthermore, position sensor 301 can be installed in all audio output devices 300 of a group of audio output devices 300, or only in a portion of the audio output devices 300. For example, in a group of sound output devices 300, where at least one sound output device 300 is connected to a portable device or the like via a wire, and is positioned within a predetermined distance of the portable device or the like, the position signal of the at least one sound output device 300 can be replaced by the position signal of the portable device acquired by the portable device. In this case, the position sensor 301 may not be included in the at least one sound output device 300. Furthermore, the "predetermined distance" in the distance between the at least one sound output device 300 and the portable device and the "predetermined distance" in the distance determination unit 402 used for determination can be the same distance or different distances.

[0075] like Figure 5As shown, the sound input / output control device 400 includes a position information acquisition unit 401, a distance determination unit 402, an action control unit 202, a sound input / output processing unit 203, and a communication unit 204. However, the position information acquisition unit 401 and the distance determination unit 402 of the sound input / output control device 400 are different from those of the sound input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1. That is, the other structures of the sound input / output control device 400 are the same as those of the sound input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1. Therefore, for structures in the sound input / output control device 400 that are the same as those in the sound input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1, the same reference numerals are used, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0076] The location information acquisition unit 401 calculates the location information of each of the multiple sound output devices 300 based on location signals transmitted from them. For example, when the location information acquisition unit 401 receives a GNSS signal as a location signal, it calculates the signal propagation time based on the time information contained in the GNSS signal, and calculates the distance between the GNSS satellite and the sound output device 300 based on the signal propagation time and the location information of the GNSS satellite contained in the GNSS signal, thereby calculating the location of the sound output device 300. When the location information acquisition unit 401 receives a beacon signal as a location signal, it calculates the location information of the sound output device 300 based on the location of the beacon transmitter and the strength of the beacon signal.

[0077] The distance determination unit 402 determines whether the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance based on the position information of each of the multiple sound output devices 300. Specifically, the distance determination unit 402 calculates the distance between the multiple sound output devices 300 based on the position information of each sound output device 300 calculated by the position information acquisition unit 401, and determines whether the distance between the multiple sound output devices 300 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. For example, the predetermined distance is 1m.

[0078] Next, refer to Figure 6 An example of the sound input / output control method according to Embodiment 2 will be described below. Furthermore, in the following description, an example will be given where a set of sound output devices 300 consists of two sound output devices 300, with one sound output device 300 serving as the master device and the other as the slave device. Additionally, when the two sound output devices 300 are worn by the same user, one sound output device 300 is used for the left ear, and the other sound output device 300 is used for the right ear.

[0079] In addition, Figure 6In the sound input / output control method shown, the processing steps S403 to S206 are respectively related to... Figure 2 The steps S103 to S106 of the sound input / output control method shown are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0080] First, the position signals of the multiple sound output devices 300 are sent to the sound input / output control device 400 respectively, and the position information acquisition unit 401 calculates the position information of each sound output device 300 based on the position signals (step S401).

[0081] Next, the distance determination unit 402 determines whether the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 100 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance based on the position information obtained in step S401 (step S402). Specifically, the distance determination unit 402 calculates the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 300 based on the position information of each sound output device 300 calculated in step S401, and determines whether the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 300 is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance.

[0082] Furthermore, the sound input / output control device 400 according to Embodiment 2 can be implemented. Figure 3 , Figure 4 The illustrated sound input / output control method. Specifically, if... Figure 3 Steps S201 and S202 of the sound input / output control method shown are replaced with Figure 6 If steps S401 and S402 of the sound input / output control method shown are followed, the sound input / output control device 400 can then implement the control. Figure 3 The sound input / output control method is shown. Similarly, if... Figure 4 Steps S301 and S302 of the sound input / output control method shown are replaced with Figure 6 If steps S401 and S402 of the sound input / output control method shown are followed, the sound input / output control device 400 can then implement the control. Figure 4 The sound input / output control method is shown.

[0083] Next, refer to Figure 7 Other examples of the sound input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1 will be described. Figure 7 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating another example of the sound input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1. Figure 7The audible devices 500A and 500B (hereinafter also referred to as 500) shown as audio input / output control devices are integrated with the audio output device 100 and the audio input / output control device 200 according to Embodiment 1. Therefore, the functions of the signal status acquisition unit 501, audio output unit 502, audio input unit 503, first communication unit 504, second communication unit 505, distance determination unit 506, motion control unit 507, and audio input / output processing unit 508 provided in the audible device 500 are the same as those in the previous embodiment. Figure 1 The signal status acquisition unit 101, sound output unit 102, sound input unit 103, first communication unit 104, second communication unit 105, distance determination unit 201, motion control unit 202, and sound input / output processing unit 203 shown are the same.

[0084] Furthermore, the hearing device 500, like the sound output device 100 according to Embodiment 1, is worn independently by the user and outputs sound to the user. Specifically, the hearing device 500 consists of completely independent earphones, such as fully wireless headphones or fully wireless bone conduction headphones, worn independently in the user's left and right ears. That is, multiple hearing devices 500 are worn by the user completely independently of each other. Typically, in fully wireless headphones, fully wireless bone conduction headphones, etc., two completely independent earphones form a group. However, in this invention, three or more hearing devices 500 may also form a group.

[0085] Next, refer to Figure 8 Other examples of the sound input / output control device 400 involved in Embodiment 2 will be described. Figure 8 This is a block diagram schematically illustrating another example of the sound input / output control device 400 according to Embodiment 2. As... Figure 8 The audible devices 700A and 700B (hereinafter also referred to as 700) shown as audio input / output control devices are integrated with the audio output device 300 and audio input / output control device 400 according to Embodiment 2. Therefore, the functions of the position sensor 701, audio output unit 702, audio input unit 703, first communication unit 704, second communication unit 705, position information acquisition unit 706, distance determination unit 707, motion control unit 708, and audio input / output processing unit 709 provided in the audible device 700 are the same as those in the previous embodiment. Figure 5 The position sensor 301, sound output unit 102, sound input unit 103, first communication unit 104, second communication unit 105, position information acquisition unit 401, distance determination unit 402, motion control unit 202, and sound input / output processing unit 203 shown are the same.

[0086] Furthermore, the hearing device 700, like the sound output device 300 described in Embodiment 2, is worn independently by the user and outputs sound to the user. Specifically, the hearing device 700 consists of completely independent earphones, such as fully wireless headphones or fully wireless bone conduction headphones, worn independently in the user's left and right ears. That is, multiple hearing devices 700 are worn by the user completely independently of each other. Typically, in fully wireless headphones, fully wireless bone conduction headphones, etc., two completely independent earphones form a group. However, in this invention, three or more hearing devices 700 may also form a group.

[0087] According to the sound input / output control device 200 or audible device 500, sound input / output control method and program described in Embodiment 1 above, the distance determination units 201 and 506 determine whether the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 100 or the plurality of audible devices 500 is a predetermined distance (e.g., 1m or more). Furthermore, if the distance determination units 201 and 506 determine that the distance between the plurality of sound output devices 100 or the plurality of audible devices 500 is less than the predetermined distance, the action control units 202 and 507 control each of the sound output devices 100 or the audible device 500 to perform a first action suitable for each of the sound output devices 100 or the audible device 500 to be worn by the same user. In addition, when the distance determination units 201 and 506 determine that the distance between the multiple sound output devices 100 or the multiple hearing devices 500 is a predetermined distance or more, the motion control unit 202 controls each of the sound output devices 100 or the hearing devices 500 to perform a second action suitable for each of the sound output devices 100 or the hearing devices 500 to be worn by different users.

[0088] In the above embodiments, the present invention has been described as a hardware structure, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention can also be implemented by having a CPU (Central Processing Unit) execute a computer program. Figures 2 to 4 as well as Figure 6 The flowchart describes the processing steps.

[0089] Furthermore, the aforementioned programs can be stored and provided to the computer using various types of non-transitory computer-readable media. Non-transitory computer-readable media include various types of tangible storage media. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable media include: magnetic recording media (e.g., floppy disks, magnetic tapes, hard disks), optical-magnetic recording media (e.g., optical discs), CD-ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD-Rs, CD-R / Ws, and semiconductor memories (e.g., mask ROMs, PROMs (Programmable ROMs), EPROMs (Erasable PROMs), flash memory ROMs, and RAMs (Random Access Memory)). Additionally, programs can also be provided to the computer via various types of transient computer-readable media. Examples of transient computer-readable media include electrical signals, optical signals, and electromagnetic waves. Transient computer-readable media can provide programs to the computer via wired communication paths such as wires and optical fibers, or via wireless communication paths.

[0090] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be appropriately modified without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0091] This application claims priority based on Japanese Application Special Hoc 2020-052622, filed on March 24, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] Industrial availability

[0093] It can provide sound input / output control devices, sound input / output control methods, and programs that can give sound output devices a wider range of uses.

[0094] Symbol Explanation

[0095] 100 and 300 sound output devices

[0096] 200 and 400 audio input / output control devices

[0097] 500, 700 audible devices (sound input / output control devices)

[0098] 600 Portable Devices (Music Reproduction Devices)

[0099] 101, 501 Signal Status Acquisition Unit

[0100] 102, 502, 702 Audio Output Section

[0101] 103, 503, 703 Audio Input Section

[0102] 104, 504, 704 First Department of Communications

[0103] 105, 505, 705 Second Communications Department

[0104] 301 and 701 position sensors

[0105] Location Information Acquisition Department (401, 706)

[0106] Distance determination unit 201, 402, 506, 707

[0107] Motion Control Department (202, 507, 708)

[0108] 203, 508, 709 Audio Input / Output Processing Unit

[0109] 204 Ministry of Communications

Claims

1. A sound input / output control device for controlling a sound output device for the right ear and a sound output device for the left ear, wherein the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear are worn independently by a user and output sound to the user, the sound input / output control device comprising: The distance determination unit determines whether the distance between the plurality of sound output devices for the right ear and the sound output devices for the left ear is greater than a predetermined distance; as well as The motion control unit controls the right and left ear sound output devices to perform a first action when the distance determination unit determines that the distance between the right and left ear sound output devices is less than a predetermined distance; and controls the right and left ear sound output devices to perform a second action when the distance determination unit determines that the distance between the right and left ear sound output devices is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance. At least one of the sound output devices includes a sound input section that picks up the voice of a user wearing the sound output device. When the distance determination unit determines that the distance between the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear is both greater than a predetermined distance, the motion control unit sends the sound picked up by the sound input unit from the sound output device with the sound input unit to the sound output device at a distance greater than the predetermined distance from the sound output device. The other sound output devices receive the sound picked up by the sound input unit of one of the sound output devices and output it to the user.

2. The sound input / output control device according to claim 1, wherein, When the distance determination unit determines that the distance between the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear is both greater than a predetermined distance, the action control unit stops the sound pickup performed by the sound input unit of one of the sound output devices or any of the other sound output devices.

3. A sound input / output control method, comprising controlling a sound output device for the right ear and a sound output device for the left ear via a sound input / output control device, wherein the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear are worn independently by the user and output sound to the user. The sound input / output control device Determine whether the distance between the multiple sound output devices for the right ear and the sound output devices for the left ear is greater than a predetermined distance. When it is determined that the distance between the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear is less than a predetermined distance, the sound output devices for the right ear and the left ear are controlled to perform a first action. At least one of the sound output devices includes a sound input section that picks up the voice of a user wearing the sound output device. The sound input / output control device When it is determined that the distance between the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear is both greater than a predetermined distance, the sound output device with a sound input unit sends the sound picked up by the sound input unit to the sound output device at a distance greater than the predetermined distance from the sound output device. The other sound output devices receive the sound picked up by the sound input unit of one of the sound output devices and output it to the user.

4. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program that causes a sound input / output control device to control a sound output device for the right ear and a sound output device for the left ear, the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear being worn independently by a user and outputting sound to the user. The sound input / output control device Determine whether the distance between the multiple sound output devices for the right ear and the sound output devices for the left ear is greater than a predetermined distance. When it is determined that the distance between the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear is less than a predetermined distance, the sound output devices for the right ear and the left ear are controlled to perform a first action. At least one of the sound output devices includes a sound input section that picks up the voice of a user wearing the sound output device. The sound input / output control device When it is determined that the distance between the sound output device for the right ear and the sound output device for the left ear is both greater than a predetermined distance, the sound output device with a sound input unit sends the sound picked up by the sound input unit to the sound output device at a distance greater than the predetermined distance from the sound output device. The other sound output devices receive the sound picked up by the sound input unit of one of the sound output devices and output it to the user.

Images