Audio output device

Abstract

To provide an audio output device that can reliably output a warning sound and that can be attached to a receiving speech unit of an audio communication device that enables audio communication.SOLUTION: An audio output device 100 applied to a fixed telephone including a main body, a handset 220, and a cord includes a second speaker 20 that outputs a warning sound, a first sensing unit 30 that is provided in the housing 10 and senses pressure in response to gripping by a first speaker, and a control unit that is provided in the housing 10 and performs audio output control to output the warning sound from the second speaker 20 based on detection by the first sensing unit 30. The housing 10 has a first covering portion facing a back surface 223 of the handset and a second covering portion facing one of a pair of side surfaces of the handset, and the first sensing unit 30 senses pressure including a component in the direction perpendicular to an axis K direction and along the back surface of the handset.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an audio output device that can be attached to a receiver of an audio communication device that enables audio communication. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there are known techniques for suppressing fraud and other criminal acts committed by malicious callers via voice communication devices. Patent Document 1 discloses a fraudulent call warning device. This device includes at least a main body, an audio output unit, and a control unit. The main body is fixed to the handset of a telephone. The audio output unit is capable of outputting a response voice equivalent to a warning (hereinafter, may also be simply referred to as an alarm sound) to the caller who has made the call. When movement of the main body is detected, the control unit instructs the audio output unit to output an alarm sound. This allows even a person who is unfamiliar with machines (e.g., the elderly) to warn the caller with a simple operation.

[0003] Patent Document 2 also discloses a fraud call warning device. This device further includes a tilt sensor in addition to the device configuration of Patent Document 1. The tilt sensor is configured to detect tilt in one axis. When the tilt is detected, the control unit instructs the audio output unit to output the response voice. This provides the effects of Patent Document 1 described above, and in addition, for example, makes it possible to accurately detect the action of twisting the receiver when the user holds it to the ear, thereby preventing malfunction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3219600 [Patent Document 2] Utility model registration No. 3222594 Summary of the Invention

[0005] In the fraud call warning devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the tilt or operation of the main body is detected by providing a tilt sensor, etc., and an alarm sound is output based on the detection. Meanwhile, as for the handset to which the fraud call warning device is fixed, the placement of the handset when waiting to receive a call varies widely, from horizontal placement to upright placement as a handset, depending on the diversification of functions and designs.

[0006] When using a handset to talk on a phone, the degree of inclination when the user lifts the handset varies. For this reason, it may be difficult to reliably output a warning sound using the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2. For these reasons, a configuration that can reliably output a warning sound is desired for handset types of various kinds.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide an audio output device that is installed in the receiver of an audio communication device and can reliably output a warning sound, and ultimately to spread the effectiveness of the audio output device through collaboration with supporters, thereby helping to eradicate this unfortunate damage.

[0008] The audio output device of the present invention is provided in an audio communication device that enables audio communication via a communication line between a first speaker and a second speaker who are separated from each other, and is configured to collect at least the speech of the first speaker by a first microphone and output the speech of the second speaker by a first speaker, and is attached to a receiver having a back side of the receiver opposite to the side on which the first microphone and the first speaker are provided, and a pair of side surfaces extending in an axial direction from the first speaker to the first microphone.

[0009] The voice output device according to the present invention includes a housing attached to the earpiece and held by the first speaker; a second speaker provided in the housing for outputting a warning sound; a first sensing unit provided in the housing and configured to sense that the first speaker has pressed the device in response to the first speaker's grip; a control unit provided in the housing, the control unit performing audio output control for outputting the warning sound from the second speaker based on the detection by the first detection unit; Equipped with the housing has a first covering portion facing a rear surface of the receiver unit, a second covering portion facing one of the pair of side surfaces, and a connecting portion connecting the first covering portion and the second covering portion; The first sensing portion senses pressure including a component in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction and along the back surface.

[0010] According to the present invention, the housing of the audio output device supported by the receiver is adapted to be held by the first speaker. When the housing is held by the first speaker, the first sensing unit is pressed by a part of the first speaker's body in response to the gripping, and the pressing is sensed. Then, based on the detection of the pressing by the first sensing unit, a warning sound is output from the second speaker. For this reason, the warning sound can be output more reliably than when the movement of the receiver itself is detected by a motion sensor such as a tilt sensor.

[0011] In particular, even if the first speaker is unfamiliar with machines (e.g., an elderly person), the warning sound can be output from the second speaker without any special operation, so that a warning can be issued more reliably to a malicious second speaker using a voice communication device.

[0012] In the audio output device according to the present invention, a second microphone is provided in the housing and collects the speech sound; a recording unit provided in the housing and configured to record the speech sound collected by the second microphone; Further comprising: The control unit is In addition to the audio output control, it is preferable to perform a recording control for recording the speech voice collected by the second microphone based on the detection by the first detection unit.

[0013] In the audio output device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the first sensing portion is provided in the second covering portion or the connection portion.

[0014] In addition, it is preferable that the audio output device according to the present invention further comprises a mounting fixture that covers a part of the earpiece and mounts the housing to the earpiece.

[0015] In the audio output device according to the present invention, an intervening member is disposed between the receiver and the housing, It is preferable that the interposition member be deformed to match the shape of the receiver.

[0016] In the audio output device according to the present invention, a second sensing unit is provided on a surface of the first covering unit opposite to the receiving unit, the second sensing unit senses pressure including a component perpendicular to the rear surface, It is preferable that the control unit performs second sound output control to output the warning sound from the second speaker based on the detection by the second detection unit.

[0017] Furthermore, the audio output device according to the present invention comprises: A housing attached to the receiver unit; a mounting fixture that covers a portion of the receiver and mounts the housing to the receiver; Equipped with The housing includes: A second sensing unit that senses pressure; a second speaker for outputting a warning sound; a control unit that performs an alarm sound output control to output an alarm sound from the second speaker based on the detection by the second detection unit; Equipped with The housing includes: A first covering portion facing the back surface of the receiver unit; A second covering portion covering one of the pair of side surfaces; having The second sensing portion is provided on a surface of the first covering portion opposite to the receiving portion, and senses pressure including a component perpendicular to the rear surface. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a sound output device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied to a fixed telephone. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the audio output device shown in FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is a diagram for explaining a state in which a user lifts up a receiver to which the audio output device shown in FIG. 1 is applied. FIG. [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the audio output device shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] Fig. 5(a) is a vertical sectional view of the audio output device shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 5(b) is a bottom view of the audio output device shown in Fig. 1. [Figure 6] Fig. 6(a) is a perspective view showing a state in which the audio output device shown in Fig. 1 is applied to a receiver. Fig. 6(b) is a perspective view showing a state in which the audio output device shown in Fig. 1 is attached to a receiver. Fig. 6(c) is a perspective view showing a state in which the audio output device shown in Fig. 1 is applied to a receiver, as seen from an angle different from that of (a). [Figure 7] 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which an interposition member is attached to the audio output device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 8] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the audio output device shown in FIG. [Figure 9] 2 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state in which the voice output device shown in FIG. 1 is applied to a fixed telephone. [Figure 10] 2 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a method of operating the audio output device shown in FIG. [Figure 11] 2 is a perspective view showing a method of operating the audio output device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 12] Fig. 12(a) is a side view showing a method of operating the audio output device shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 12(b) is a flow chart explaining the operation when the second sensing unit is operated. [Figure 13] 2 is a perspective view showing a state in which a user holds up the audio output device shown in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 4 is a side view illustrating how each part of the receiver is called. [Figure 15]FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a state in which a voice output device according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention is applied to a receiver. [Figure 16] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing a sound output device according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 17 is a side view of the audio output device shown in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] 17 is a perspective view showing a state in which the voice output device shown in FIG. 16 is applied to an interphone. [Figure 19] Fig. 19(a) is a side view showing a state in which the audio output device shown in Fig. 16 is attached to an earpiece, and Fig. 19(b) is a side view showing a state in which the audio output device shown in Fig. 16 is attached to an earpiece having a shape different from that in (a). [Figure 20] 17 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the audio output device shown in FIG. 16. [Figure 21] Fig. 21(a) is a vertical sectional view of the audio output device shown in Fig. 16. Fig. 21(b) is a bottom view of the audio output device shown in Fig. 16. [Figure 22] 17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the audio output device shown in FIG. 16. [Diagram 23] FIG. 11 is a side view showing a state in which a user holds an audio output device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] Fig. 24(a) is a perspective view showing a state in which the audio output device according to the third embodiment of the present invention is applied to a child unit, and Fig. 24(b) is a side view showing a state in which the audio output device according to the third embodiment of the present invention is applied to a child unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] (First embodiment) Hereinafter, a first embodiment of an audio output device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0020] <Fixed phone configuration> 1, a voice output device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is applied to a fixed telephone (voice communication device) 200. The fixed telephone 200 includes a main body 210, a handset (receiving section) 220, and a cord 230.

[0021] The main body 210 is formed of a flat, generally rectangular housing. The housing of the main body 210 is made of resin. A plurality of buttons 211 are arranged on the right side of the top surface of the main body 210. The button 211 can be pressed by a user to input the destination number. In the first embodiment, the buttons 211 are arranged in a matrix of 3×4, and each button 211 is generally circular, but the number, arrangement, shape, and the like are not limited to this.

[0022] The handset 220 is formed of a housing having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing of the handset 220 can be made of, for example, resin. The handset 220 is placed on the left side of the top surface of the main body 210, next to the left of the button 211, so that the long axis is substantially horizontal to the installation surface. The first end 221 and the second end 222 of the handset 220 each protrude toward the main body 210 (vertically downward) in the placed state. The first end 221 and the second end 222 are each capable of fitting into a recess formed in the main body 210 so as to correspond thereto. This fitting prevents the handset 220 from slipping off the main body 210 in the placed state. Note that the placement position, posture, etc. of the handset 220, and the shapes of the first end 221 and the second end 222 are not limited thereto. For example, the first end 221 and the second end 222 may not protrude as described above, and the lower surface of the handset 220 may be flat.

[0023] The back surface 223 of the handset 220 becomes the top surface of the handset 220 in the placed state, and faces the palm of the user when the handset 220 is held by the user. The back surface 223 has a curvature from the first end 221 to the second end 222. The handset 220 has side surfaces 224 and 225 on the left and right. The audio output device 100, which will be described in detail later, is supported on the back surface 223. The handset 220 configured in this manner is designed so that the user can hold the audio output device 100 from the placed state and easily lift it together with the audio output device 100. The shapes of the back surface 223 and the side surfaces 224 and 225 are not limited to those described above. For example, the back surface 223 may not have a curvature as described above, and may be formed in a flat shape from the first end 221 to the second end 222.

[0024] The first end 221 has a built-in first speaker 221a. When the user holds the audio output device 100 and talks on the handset 220, the first speaker 221a is arranged at the first end 221 so as to face the ear. The first speaker 221a outputs the voice of the call destination. The second end 222 has a built-in first microphone 222a. When the user holds the audio output device 100 and talks on the phone, the first microphone 222a is arranged at the second end 222 so as to face the mouth. The first microphone 222a collects the user's voice. The arrangement of the first speaker 221a and the first microphone 222a is not limited to this. The first speaker 221a and the first microphone 222a may be arranged at any position as long as they are separated to a certain extent, and do not necessarily have to be arranged at both ends.

[0025] The cord 230 is configured in an elastically deformable spiral shape. The cord 230 is provided between the second end 222 of the handset 220 and the left side of the main body 210. The first speaker 221a and the first microphone 222a built into the handset 220 are electrically connected to the cord 230. The circuit board built into the main body 210 is electrically connected to the cord 230 and is also electrically connected to an external telephone line network via a modular cable. The communication mode is not limited to this. For example, wireless communication not requiring the cord 230 may be established between the main body 210 and the handset 220, or the main body 210 may be connected to an external Internet line network via a LAN cable or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0026] The fixed telephone 200 configured as above enables voice communication via a communication line between a user (first speaker) of the fixed telephone 200 and another person (second speaker) who are separated from each other. The handset 220 is configured to collect the user's voice by the first microphone 222a and output the other person's voice by the first speaker 221a when held by the user via the voice output device 100 or when held directly.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 2, the audio output device 100 includes a mounting fixture 300 that covers a part of the receiver 220 to mount the housing 10 to the receiver 220. In the first embodiment, the receiver 220 is covered by the mounting fixture 300 so that the first end 221 (first speaker 221a) and the second end 222 (first microphone 222a) are exposed from the mounting fixture 300. One end of the mounting fixture 300 is fixed by penetrating a part of the housing 10. The other end of the mounting fixture 300 is coupled to a fixture 300a fixed to the housing 10. In this way, the audio output device 100 is configured to be mounted to the receiver 220. The housing 10 is exposed and not covered by the mounting fixture 300, so that the user can hold it. The mounting fixture 300 can be made of an elastic material, a fiber with a hook-and-loop fastener, a thread, or the like. FIG. 3 shows a state in which the audio output device 100 is attached to the handset 220 and the sensing unit 30 is pressed by the user. When the sensing unit 30 is not pressed, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 3, it protrudes largely from the housing 10, so that the user can easily press the sensing unit 30. The housing 10 has a substantially L-shaped cross section, and the mounting fixture 300 biases it in an annular shape to attach the housing 10 to the handset 220. That is, the first covering portion 10a is biased toward the handset back surface 223, and the second covering portion 10b is biased toward the side surface 224 (handset end AL), so that the arrangement of the handset 220 and the housing 10 is determined. As a result, the first sensing unit 30 is located on the left end portion 13L (left side surface 12) and is therefore positioned at the leftmost position, which ensures that the first sensing unit 30 can protrude.

[0028] The coverage area of ​​the receiver 220 and the audio output device 100 by the mounting fixture 300 is arbitrary as long as the sound output from the first speaker 221a, the sound collected by the first microphone 222a, and the sound output from the second speaker 20 are not blocked. Here, "sound is not blocked" means that sound can be propagated audibly.

[0029] <Configuration of audio output device> As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the audio output device 100 includes a housing 10, a second speaker 2, a first sensing unit 30, a second sensing unit 31, a control unit 40, a recording unit 50, a second microphone 60, a third microphone 61, and an audio transmission unit 70.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 2, the housing 10 has a first covering portion 10a facing the back surface 223 of the receiver, a second covering portion 10b facing one of a pair of side surfaces 224, 225 of the receiver, and a connecting portion 10c connecting the first and second covering portions, and defines an upper surface 11, a left side surface 12, and a lower surface 13. The longitudinal direction of the housing 10 corresponds to the front-rear direction indicated by the arrows in each drawing. As shown in Fig. 6(a), a second speaker 20 is provided at the rear end of the top surface 11, approximately in the center in the left-right direction. The second speaker 20 is a general-purpose speaker having a moving coil, a diaphragm, etc., built into the inside of the housing 10. The second speaker 20 is configured to convert an electric signal from the control unit 40 and output sound upward from the top surface 11.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 2, the first sensing unit 30 is provided on the left side surface 12 (second surface) of the housing 10. The first sensing unit 30, which is in the shape of a rectangular prism, extends in the front-rear direction along the left side surface 12. The sensing unit is supported by a resilient member (not shown) so as to be capable of reciprocating (or pivoting), and moves between a most protruding protruding position and a most retracted retracted position. At a position other than the protruding position, a control unit 40 (described later) receives an actuation signal. When the housing 10 is gripped by a user, the first sensing unit 30 is pressed by a part of the user's body in response to the grip, and detects the pressing. The first sensing unit 30 can be configured by a capacitive touch sensor, a load cell that detects a load, a press-type physical switch (such as a push button), or the like, and when pressed by the user, it sends a detected electric signal to the control unit 40. The first sensing unit 30 is disposed on the left side surface 12 and has a substantially rectangular shape, but the number, arrangement, shape, and the like are not limited thereto.

[0032] Furthermore, in the first sensing unit 30, for example, the pressing area occupying the left side surface 12 may be relatively large so that the first sensing unit 30 can be easily operated by the user, and may be configured to be able to detect pressing even when covered by the mounting fixture 300 as in a third embodiment described later. Furthermore, when the first sensing unit 30 is covered by the mounting fixture 300, the color of the mounting fixture 300 may be a transparent color and the first sensing unit 30 may be given a visible color so that the first sensing unit 30 can be easily seen. Furthermore, the first sensing unit 30 may be formed on the same plane as the left side surface 12 so as to suppress any sense of incongruity in design.

[0033] In the first embodiment, the first sensing unit 30 is provided on the left side surface 12, but is not limited thereto. When the user lifts the handset 220 via the housing 10, the housing 10 is held and the user's fingers, palm, or the like can press (contact) the outer surface of the first sensing unit 30. Therefore, the first sensing unit 30 may be provided on any surface of the housing 10 other than the bottom surface 13. The first sensing unit 30 may extend from the front side surface of the housing 10 in the forward direction of the housing 10 and bend to extend along the first direction outside the housing left side surface 12, as in the modified example shown in FIG. 15.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 6(b), the housing 10 is attached to the handset 220 so that the lower surface 13 (first surface) is in contact with a part of the back surface 223 of the handset 220. As shown in FIG. 6(b), the handset 220 has an area A, an axis K, and handset ends AL and AR (receiving section ends). The area A is a part of the back surface 223 and faces the lower surface 13. In other words, the lower surface 13 faces the area A in the back surface 223 (see FIG. 14) on the opposite side of the handset 220 from the surface on which the first microphone 222a and the first speaker 221a are provided. The axis K is an axis in a direction from the first speaker 221a to the first microphone 222a, and the direction of the axis K is the same as the front-rear direction. The receiver ends AL and AR are ends of the area A in a direction (first direction, left-right direction) perpendicular to the direction of the axis K and moving away from the axis K. That is, the receiver end AL is the left end of the area A, and the receiver end AR is the right end of the area A.

[0035] In the first embodiment, when the housing 10 is attached to the handset 220, the lower surface 13 and the area A can be in contact with each other, but instead, as shown in FIG. 7, an intervening member 16 may be disposed between the lower surface 13 and the area A. The intervening member 16 is preferably an elastic or viscous material such as sponge, rubber, or alpha gel, but may also be a solid material such as cement or adhesive, or a glue or film such as double-sided tape. These materials have the property of deforming to match the shape of the contact part with the other when pressed. By deforming, it is possible to suppress positional deviation due to external force, and vibration-proofing and protection functions are provided by the restoring force. If the mounting fixture 300 shown in Figures 3, 19 and 23 is made of an elastic material such as rubber, the tension of the mounting fixture 300 and the restoring force of the intervening member 16 work together to increase the biasing effect, making the mounting support of the housing 10 to the handset 220 more solid.

[0036] The control unit 40 and the recording unit 50 are built into the housing 10. The control unit 40 has a microcomputer, an electric circuit, etc., and the recording unit 50 has a memory, an electric circuit, etc.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 4, the control unit 40 is electrically connected to the second speaker 20, the first sensing unit 30, the second sensing unit 31, the recording unit 50, the second microphone 60, the third microphone 61, and a battery (not shown) that serves as a driving source for these. The battery may be a replaceable one such as a button battery, or a rechargeable battery that does not need to be replaced. Instead of mounting a battery, the power supply to the fixed telephone 200 may be branched and the branched one may be used as a driving power source. The control unit 40 is configured to receive an electric signal sent from the first sensing unit 30 or the second sensing unit 31, and control the voice output via the second speaker 20 and the voice recording in the recording unit 50 via the second microphone 60 and the third microphone 61. That is, when the first sensing unit 30 or the second sensing unit 31 detects a pressure, the control unit 40 instructs the voice output to the second speaker 20 and the voice recording in the recording unit 50 as a control process.

[0038] The memory of the recording unit 50 stores first voice data, programs, etc., corresponding to the voice output from the second speaker 20, and can be read and referred to by the microcomputer of the control unit 40. The first voice data includes data corresponding to the first sensing unit and data corresponding to the second sensing unit. The recording unit 50 is electrically connected to the control unit 40 and the second microphone 60 via an interface, and is configured to be able to record second voice data corresponding to the spoken voice collected by the second microphone 60 in the memory. The second microphone 60 collects the voice of the other party, while the third microphone 61 collects the voice of the user. Because of its configuration, the second microphone 60 has difficulty collecting the voice of the user, so the third microphone 61 is placed near the mouth of the user (near the first microphone). Even when the sensing unit 30 is pressed to the retreated position, there is a step as shown in FIG. 3, so the third microphone 61 is not blocked by any part of the body. Since the user's actual voice can be recorded, it also serves as a substitute for taking notes.

[0039] The first voice data includes first sensing unit corresponding data corresponding to a warning sound for warning another person (second speaker) through the fixed telephone 200. The warning sound is, for example, a voice of a phrase for thwarting ill intentions, specifically, "your call will be recorded", but is not limited thereto. The warning sound to be output may be one type or multiple types. When multiple types of warning sounds are used, for example, multiple first voice data may be stored in advance in the memory of the recording unit 50, and the warning sound to be output may be selected and switched depending on the length of time the sensing unit 30 is pressed, the number of times the sensing unit 30 is pressed, etc. Alternatively, the first sensing unit 30 may have buttons in the same number as the types of voice data, and the output voice may be switched by pressing each button corresponding to the multiple voice data.

[0040] The second voice data is the voice of another person (second speaker) through the fixed telephone 200, and corresponds to the voice output from the first speaker 221a and collected by the second microphone 60, and the voice of the user (first speaker) collected by the third microphone 61, and the voice collected by the second microphone 60 and the third microphone 61. The second voice data recorded in the recording unit 50 can be extracted from the memory, and may be reproducible using another voice reproducing device or the like, or may be output from the second speaker 20 by operating an operation unit (not shown).

[0041] The above program is configured so that, in response to the detection of pressure by the first detection unit 30, the control unit 40 executes voice output of the first voice data and voice recording of the second voice data.

[0042] FIG. 5(a) is a vertical cross-sectional view of the audio output device 100 cut along the axis K. FIG. 5(b) is a bottom view of the audio output device 100. The second microphone 60 and the audio transmission unit 70 are disposed inside the housing 10. The audio transmission unit 70 includes a rim portion 70a, a diaphragm portion 71, and a pipe portion 72. The rim portion 70a is disposed at an edge portion of the circular through-hole 13a on the front side of the approximate center of the lower surface 13. The diaphragm portion 71 is exposed from the circular through-hole 13a of the lower surface 13 and connected to the area A of the receiver 220 through the rim portion 70a disposed on the lower surface 13 of the housing 10. One end of the pipe portion 72 is connected to the diaphragm portion 71, and the other end of the pipe portion 72 is connected to the second microphone 60. As a result, sound from first speaker 221a travels from area A of receiver 220, is amplified by diaphragm portion 71, is transmitted through pipe portion 72, and reaches second microphone 60. That is, sound transmission portion 70 is connected to receiver 220, and transmits the speech sound output from first speaker 221a to second microphone 60. Rim portion 70a exposed from underside 13 is in close contact with the surface of area A of receiver 220 due to the expansion and contraction force of mounting fixture 300 described above, enabling highly efficient collection of sound from receiver 220.

[0043] <Operation of audio output device> Fig. 8 is a flow chart showing the operation of the audio output device 100. As shown in Fig. 8, in a state where the audio output device 100 of the first embodiment is applied to the fixed telephone 200, the process first starts from step 600. Next, in step 601, the user judges whether or not there has been a call to the fixed telephone 200. As long as there has been no call to the fixed telephone 200, the judgement is "No" and the process remains at step 601. On the other hand, if there has been a call to the fixed telephone 200, the judgement is "Yes" and the process proceeds to step 602.

[0044] In step 602, the user lifts the handset 220 from the main body 210, and positions the first end 221 and the second end 222 near the ear and the mouth, respectively. As shown in FIG. 3, in the housing 10 of the audio output device 100, the left end 13L is located to the left of the handset end AL. Therefore, when the user tries to lift the handset 220, the user is forced to hold the handset 220 by only the housing 10 or by including the housing 10. In other words, the part other than the housing 10 is the first end 221 or the second end 222, and since it is not possible to hold the narrow area stably, the user psychologically avoids the part and holds the handset including the housing 10. When the housing 10 is held, the first sensing unit 30 is pressed by the user's fingers with the user's gripping force.

[0045] Next, in step 603, upon detecting that the first sensing unit 30 has been pressed, the control unit 40 starts audio output based on the first sensing unit corresponding data in the first voice data, and starts audio recording of the second voice data.

[0046] Next, in step 604, a conversation is carried out between the user and another person through the fixed telephone 200. At this time, a warning sound corresponding to the first voice data is output from the second speaker 20. The warning sound output from the second speaker 20 reverberates on the user's palm or the like and reaches the first microphone 222a. The reaching warning sound is collected by the first microphone 222a and transmitted to another person through the fixed telephone 200 together with the user's speech voice. At the same time, the speech voice output from the first speaker 221a is transmitted by the voice transmission unit 70 and reaches the second microphone 60. The reaching speech voice is collected by the second microphone 60 and recorded in the recording unit 50 as second voice data together with the user's speech voice collected by the third microphone 61.

[0047] Then, in step 605, the conversation between the user and the other person via the fixed telephone set 200 is completed, the handset 220 is placed on the main body 210, and the user's hand is released from the housing 10 that was being held. As a result, the fingers are also released from the sensing unit 30, and pressure is no longer sensed, and the control unit 40 completes the audio output of the first voice data and the audio recording of the second voice data.

[0048] 9 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a state where handset 220 is placed on handset holder (main body 210). When handset 220 is not in use, it is placed in this state. Second sensing unit 31 is arranged on top surface 11 of housing 10. Speaker 221a of handset 220 contacts the speaker receiving portion of the handset holder by its own weight, and the vicinity of microphone 222a of handset 220 contacts the microphone receiving portion of the handset holder by its own weight, so that handset 220 is placed in a stable state. Housing 10 of audio output device 100 is arranged on back surface 223 of handset 220, and is attached to the handset by mounting fixture 300 by covering a part of handset 220 in a ring shape, and an intervening member 16 that deforms to match the shape of the contact portion with handset 220 is arranged between handset 220 and housing 10.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the audio output device 100 in FIG. 9. Inside the second sensing unit 31 in the housing 10, a sensor 32 is disposed, and a probe 33 is disposed on the second sensing unit 31 side from the sensor 32. Before operation, a gap δ is secured between the second sensing unit 31 and the probe 33 as shown on the left side of FIG. 10. When the second sensing unit 31 is pressed, the probe 33 and the second sensing unit 31 are pressed, and an alarm sound based on the data corresponding to the second sensing unit 31 in the recording unit 50 is output from the second speaker 20 under the control of the control unit 40 electrically connected to the sensor 32. The alarm sound here is not a linguistic output for warning the second speaker when the first sensing unit 30 detects something, but a loud alarm siren that announces an emergency to the surroundings. As shown in FIG. 12(a), for example, a linguistic voice such as "Police officer will be soon" that discourages the target's malicious intent may be used. This makes the target flinch in the residence and can be transmitted to the surroundings, which helps ensure safety. Fig. 12(b) is a flow chart showing the operation when the user operates the second sensing unit. As shown in Fig. 12(b), the alarm sound may be output until the battery is removed, but this is not limited to this, and the output may be stopped when the user performs a specified operation.

[0050] The left side of FIG. 10 shows a state where the second sensing unit 31 is not sensing. The second sensing unit 31 is provided on the upper surface 11 of the housing 10, and is provided integrally with the upper surface 11 via a low-strength portion 31a buried in the housing 10. The second sensing unit 31 protrudes upward from the upper surface 11, thereby increasing its visibility. When the second sensing unit 31 is struck from above downward with a fist or the like, the low-strength portion 31a is damaged as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 10. This causes the second sensing unit 31 to move and interfere with the probe 33, and as a result, an alarm siren is issued based on the data corresponding to the second sensing unit 31 in the recording unit 50 under the control of the control unit 40. Since the low-strength portion 31a (damaged portion) is buried and disposed, the damaged portion does not come into contact with the fist. In addition, the pressing amount of the probe 33 is ensured by setting the height of the second sensing unit 31 as shown in the right diagram. In addition, as described above, handset 220 is placed in the handset holder (main body 210) in a stably state, and audio output device 100 is attached to handset 220 in a stably state, so that even if handset 220 is left in the handset holder and second sensing unit 31 is struck with a fist or the like, stability is provided that prevents failure in operation of second sensing unit 31, such as the handset or this device becoming displaced or falling off.

[0051] Fig. 11 shows a state in which the audio output device 100 is attached to the handset 240, which is a wireless handset of the fixed telephone 200. The handset 240 is placed upright, so its support with the holder is unstable, and it is difficult to instantly press the second sensing unit 31 while it is placed. As an example of use that solves this problem, after holding the handset 240, the second sensing unit 31 is struck against a desk or the like in order to press the second sensing unit 31, resulting in the state shown on the right side of Fig. 10. This instantly issues an alarm siren based on the data corresponding to the second sensing unit 31.

[0052] The second sensor 31 is effective not only when a person encounters danger in the residence as described above, but also when, for example, an emergency physical abnormality is felt. It can be used to call for help from those around by sounding an alarm siren. It is also effective in customer service situations such as in stores, other than residences. If this device is installed and painted to be conspicuous, it can act as a deterrent to the target person and provide crime prevention effects.

[0053] (Modification) FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the audio output device 100 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, the audio output device 100 may be configured not to have the second sensing unit 31. Conversely, the audio output device 100 may be configured not to have the first sensing unit 30 but to have the second sensing unit 31. FIG. 17 is a side view of the audio output device 100 shown in FIG. 16. FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing an example in which the audio output device 100 shown in FIG. 16 is applied to an interphone. In this way, the audio output device 100 of the present application may be applied to an interphone. FIG. 19 is a side view showing a state in which the audio output device 100 shown in FIG. 16 is attached to a receiver 220 of a different shape. As shown in FIG. 19, the audio output device 100 may be applied to receivers 220 of various shapes.

[0054] 20 and 21, the audio output device 100 shown in Fig. 16 includes a housing 10, a second speaker 20, a sensing unit (first sensing unit) 30, a control unit 40, a recording unit 50, a second microphone 60, and an audio transmission unit 70. In Fig. 20 and 21, the front / back directions, left / right directions, and up / down directions correspond to the front / back directions, left / right directions, and up / down directions indicated by arrows, respectively.

[0055] The housing 10 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape and defines an upper surface 11, a left side surface 12, and a lower surface 13. The longitudinal direction of the housing 10 corresponds to the front-rear direction. A second speaker 20 is provided at the rear end of the upper surface 11, approximately in the center in the left-right direction. The second speaker 20 is a general-purpose speaker having a moving coil, a diaphragm, etc. built into the housing 10. The second speaker 20 converts an electric signal from the control unit 40 and outputs sound upward from the upper surface 11.

[0056] A sensing unit 30 is provided on the left side surface 12 (second surface), which is a surface of the housing 10 different from the bottom surface 13 (first surface). The rectangular sensing unit 30 extends in the front-rear direction along the left side surface 12. When the housing 10 is gripped by a user, the sensing unit 30 is pressed by a part of the user's body in response to gripping, and is configured to detect the pressing. The sensing unit 30 is a capacitive touch sensor, a load cell that detects a load, a press-type physical switch (such as a push button), or the like, and when pressed by the user, it sends a detected electric signal to the control unit 40. In this modified example, the sensing unit 30 is arranged on the left side surface 12 and has a substantially rectangular shape, but the number, arrangement, shape, and the like are not limited thereto.

[0057] In addition, the sensing unit 30 may be configured to be able to sense a pressure even when covered by the mounting fixture 300 by, for example, making the pressing area of ​​the sensing unit 30 on the left side surface 12 relatively large so that the user can easily operate it. In addition, when the sensing unit 30 is covered by the mounting fixture 300, the mounting fixture 30 may be colored with a transparent color and the sensing unit 30 may be colored with a visible color so that the sensing unit 30 can be easily seen. In addition, a through hole may be provided in the mounting fixture 300 corresponding to the arrangement portion of the sensing unit 30 so that the sensing unit 30 is exposed from the mounting fixture 300. Furthermore, the sensing unit 30 may be structured to protrude to some extent from the left side surface 12 so that the feeling of pressure can be easily confirmed, or the sensing unit 30 may be formed in the same plane as the left side surface 12 so as to suppress a sense of incongruity in design.

[0058] In this modification, the sensing unit 30 is provided on the left side surface 12, but is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient that when the user lifts the handset 220 via the housing 10, the housing 10 is gripped and the user's fingers, palm, or the like press (contact) the outer surface of the sensing unit 30. Therefore, the sensing unit 30 may be provided on any surface of the housing 10 other than the bottom surface 13.

[0059] In this modification, when housing 10 is supported by receiver 220, lower surface 13 and region A are in contact with each other. Alternatively, a predetermined member may be interposed between lower surface 13 and region A. For example, from the viewpoint of promoting vibration propagation between lower surface 13 and region A, it is effective to make the acoustic impedance of the predetermined member closer to that of the material of housing 10 and receiver 220. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of suppressing the vibration propagation, it is effective to make the acoustic impedance of the predetermined member different from that of the material of housing 10 and receiver 220.

[0060] The control unit 40 and the recording unit 50 are built into the housing 10. The control unit 40 has a microcomputer, an electric circuit, etc., and the recording unit 50 has a memory, an electric circuit, etc.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 20, the control unit 40 is electrically connected to the second speaker 20, the sensing unit 30, the recording unit 50, the second microphone 60, and a battery (not shown) that drives these. The battery may be a replaceable one such as a button battery, or a rechargeable battery that does not need to be replaced. Instead of mounting a battery, the power supply to the fixed telephone 200 may be branched and the branched one may be used as the driving power source. The control unit 40 receives an electric signal sent from the sensing unit 30 and controls the voice output via the second speaker 20 and the voice recording in the recording unit 50 via the second microphone 60. That is, when the pressure is detected by the sensing unit 30, the control unit 40 instructs the voice output to the second speaker 20 and the voice recording in the recording unit 50 as a control process.

[0062] The memory of the recording unit 50 stores first voice data, programs, etc., corresponding to the voice output from the second speaker 20, and can be read and referred to by the microcomputer of the control unit 40. The recording unit 50 is also electrically connected to the second microphone 60 via the control unit 40 and an interface, and is configured to be able to record second voice data, corresponding to the speech voice collected by the second microphone 60, in the memory.

[0063] The first voice data is data corresponding to a warning sound for warning another person (second speaker) through the fixed telephone 200. The warning sound is, for example, a voice of a sentence for thwarting malicious intent, specifically, but not limited to, "your call will be recorded". The warning sound to be output may be one type or multiple types. When multiple types of warning sounds are used, for example, multiple first voice data may be stored in advance in the memory of the recording unit 50, and the warning sound to be output may be selected and switched depending on the length of time the sensing unit 30 is pressed or the number of times it is pressed. Alternatively, the sensing unit 30 may have buttons in the same number as the types of voice data, and the output voice may be switched by pressing each button corresponding to the multiple voice data.

[0064] The second voice data corresponds to the voice of another person (second speaker) speaking through the fixed telephone 200, which is output from the first speaker 221a and collected by the second microphone 60, and the voice of the user (first speaker), which is collected by the second microphone 60. The second voice data recorded in the recording unit 50 can be extracted from the memory, and can be reproduced using another voice reproduction device or the like.

[0065] The above program is configured so that, in response to the detection of pressure by the detection unit 30, the control unit 40 executes voice output of the first voice data and voice recording of the second voice data.

[0066] FIG. 21(a) is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the audio output device 100 cut in the front-rear direction. FIG. 21(b) is a bottom view of the audio output device 100. The second microphone 60 and the audio transmission unit 70 are disposed inside the housing 10. The audio transmission unit 70 includes a rim portion 70a, a diaphragm portion 71, and a pipe portion 72. The rim portion 70a is disposed at an edge portion of the circular through-hole 13a on the front side of the approximate center of the lower surface 13. The diaphragm portion 71 is exposed from the circular through-hole 13a of the lower surface 13 and connected to the area A of the receiver 220 through the rim portion 70a disposed on the lower surface 13 of the housing 10. One end of the pipe portion 72 is connected to the diaphragm portion 71, and the other end of the pipe portion 72 is connected to the second microphone 60. As a result, sound from first speaker 221a travels from area A of receiver 220, is amplified by diaphragm portion 71, is transmitted through pipe portion 72, and reaches second microphone 60. That is, sound transmission portion 70 is connected to receiver 220, and transmits the speech sound output from first speaker 221a to second microphone 60. Rim portion 70a exposed from underside 13 is in close contact with the surface of area A of receiver 220 due to the expansion and contraction force of mounting fixture 300 described above, enabling highly efficient collection of sound from receiver 220.

[0067] Fig. 22 is a flow chart showing the operation of the audio output device 100 according to this modified example. As shown in Fig. 22, in a state in which the audio output device 100 is applied to the fixed telephone 200, the process first starts from step 600. Next, in step 601, the user judges whether or not there has been a call to the fixed telephone 200. As long as there has been no call to the fixed telephone 200, the judgement is "No" and the process remains at step 601. On the other hand, if there has been a call to the fixed telephone 200, the judgement is "Yes" and the process proceeds to step 602.

[0068] In step 602, the user lifts the handset 220 from the main body 210, and positions the first end 221 and the second end 222 at the ear and the mouth, respectively. In the housing 10 of the audio output device 100, the left end 13L is located to the left of the handset end AL. Therefore, when the user tries to lift the handset 220, the user is forced to hold the handset 220 by only the housing 10, or by including the housing 10. In other words, the parts other than the housing 10 are the first end 221 or the second end 222, and since it is not possible to hold a narrow area stably, the user psychologically avoids those parts and holds the handset including the housing 10. When the housing 10 is held, the user's gripping force presses the sensing unit 30 with the fingers.

[0069] Next, in step 603, upon detecting that the sensing unit 30 has been pressed, the control unit 40 starts audio output of the first audio data and audio recording of the second audio data.

[0070] Next, in step 604, a conversation is carried out between the user and another person through the fixed telephone 200. At this time, a warning sound corresponding to the first voice data is output from the second speaker 20. The warning sound output from the second speaker 20 reverberates on the user's palm or the like and reaches the first microphone 222a. The reaching warning sound is collected by the first microphone 222a and transmitted to another person through the fixed telephone 200 together with the user's speech voice. At the same time, the speech voice output from the first speaker 221a is transmitted by the voice transmission unit 70 and reaches the second microphone 60. The reaching speech voice is collected by the second microphone 60 and recorded in the recording unit 50 as second voice data together with the user's speech voice.

[0071] Then, in step 605, the conversation between the user and the other person via the fixed telephone set 200 is completed, the handset 220 is placed on the main body 210, and the user's hand is released from the housing 10 that was being held. As a result, the fingers are also released from the sensing unit 30, and pressure is no longer sensed, and the control unit 40 completes the audio output of the first voice data and the audio recording of the second voice data.

[0072] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> As described above, according to the audio output device 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention and its modified example, the housing 10 of the audio output device 100 supported by the receiver 220 is adapted to be held by a user (first speaker). When the housing 10 is held by the user's hand, the first sensing unit 30 is pressed by a part of the user's body in response to the gripping, and the pressing is sensed. Then, based on the pressing sensed by the first sensing unit 30, an alarm sound is output from the second speaker 20. For this reason, it is possible to output an alarm sound more reliably than when the motion of the receiver itself is detected by a motion sensor such as a tilt sensor disclosed in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2.

[0073] In particular, even if the user is unfamiliar with machines (for example, an elderly person), no special operation is required and the warning sound can be output from the second speaker 20. Therefore, a warning can be issued more reliably to malicious others through the fixed telephone 200.

[0074] Moreover, the housing 10 has a bottom surface 13 (first surface) facing the area A of the receiver 220, and the sensing unit 30 is provided on a surface (second surface) of the housing 10 different from the bottom surface 13 (first surface). The second surface may be a portion that is easily pressed by a part of the body of the user, such as a finger or a palm, when the user holds the housing 10, or a portion that is inevitably pressed due to the structure. This allows the first sensing unit 30 to be installed in a portion that is easily pressed or a portion that is inevitably pressed due to the structure. Therefore, when the housing 10 is held, the first sensing unit 30 can be pressed more reliably. By setting the load sensed by the first sensing unit 30 lower than the load required to hold the receiver, the receiver will naturally be held with a load equal to or greater than the set load in order to hold it, and therefore the first sensing unit 30 can always sense it when held.

[0075] The housing 10 has a lower surface 13 (first surface) facing the area A of the receiver 220, and the axis K and the receiver ends AL and AR are respectively defined in the receiver 220. As shown in Fig. 3, the first surface has a left end 13L (first end) and a right end 13R (first end), and the left end 13L is located farther from the axis K (leftward) than the receiver end AL in the left direction. That is, the first covering part 10a is biased toward the receiver back surface 223, and the second covering part 10b is biased toward the side surface 224 (receiver end AL), and the arrangement of the receiver 220 and the housing 10 is determined, and the first sensing part 30 is located on the left end 13L and therefore is located at the leftmost position. According to this, the housing 10 can be configured so that it is easy to grip or the user is forced to grip it when the user lifts the handset 220. Therefore, when the handset 220 is lifted, the housing 10 can be gripped more reliably, and the first sensing unit 30 can sense it.

[0076] Furthermore, audio output device 100 includes attachment tool 300 that covers a part of receiver 220 and a part of housing 10 to attach housing 10 to receiver 220. This allows housing 10 to be easily and reliably supported on receiver 220 by attachment tool 300. In Patent Documents 1 and 2, attachment tool 300 is attached, which carries the risk of separation, but this risk of separation can be reduced.

[0077] Furthermore, mounting fixture 300 and other components of audio output device 100 can utilize inexpensive parts and materials, can have a simple configuration, and can reduce manufacturing costs, making the device very inexpensive overall.

[0078] The attachment 300 may be made of an elastic material. In this case, the elastic restoring force of the elastic material can be utilized, making it possible to easily attach and detach the attachment 300 to and from the handset 220 and the housing 10, and once the attachment 300 is attached, it can be securely held by the handset 220 and the housing 10. Furthermore, when the attachment 300 is attached to the handset 220 and the housing 10, the relative position of the housing 10 to the handset 220 can be easily adjusted and changed any number of times.

[0079] In the first embodiment, the audio output device 100 includes a second microphone 60 that collects the speech output from the first speaker 221a, a third microphone 61 that collects the user's voice, and a recording unit 50 that records the speech collected by the second microphone 60 and the third microphone 61. The control unit 40 controls the output of the second speaker 20 and performs recording control to record the speech collected by the second microphone 60 based on the detection by the first detection unit 30. This makes it possible to more reliably record the speech based on the pressure detection of the first detection unit 30. Therefore, it is possible to record the speech from a malicious person through the fixed telephone 200 and to reliably preserve evidence. In contrast, in the alarm devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the tilt or operation of the main unit is detected by providing a tilt sensor, but the means for stopping the recording control for recording the speech is a timer. In the case of a timer, regardless of whether the call continues or ends, the timer is forcibly stopped when the set time is reached, resulting in excessive or insufficient recording of spoken voice and wasted power consumption, making it impossible to reliably preserve evidence. On the other hand, in the first embodiment, since recording can be limited to the period during which the user grips the casing 10 while on a call, evidence is preserved without excess or deficiency, and the problems of the prior art described above are not present. This is a major advantage.

[0080] In the first embodiment and its modified example, the audio output device 100 includes an audio transmission unit 70 that is connected to the handset 220 and transmits the speech output from the first speaker 221a to the second microphone 60. This allows the speech output from the first speaker 221a to be efficiently transmitted to the second microphone 60. Therefore, the second microphone 60 can collect the sound with good sensitivity, so that noise can be suppressed even if the output gain of the first speaker 221a is small. Furthermore, in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2, the sound collection unit extends separately from the housing and is attached near the speaker of the receiver, so that the sound collection unit interferes with the use of the receiver and is easily detached. In the first embodiment of the present invention, the sound collection unit is built into the housing 10, so that the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art can be eliminated. In Patent Documents 1 and 2, the device is required to be miniaturized so as not to impair the operability of the telephone, but in the first embodiment, the need for miniaturization is limited due to the nature of the housing 10 being held. Since the device can be made larger to a certain extent, the options for parts are expanded and there is more room for layout design, which results in reduced manufacturing costs and a more reliable design. In addition, since the device can be made larger to a certain extent, it can be equipped with inexpensive and easy-to-use AAA or AA batteries instead of button batteries that are too small and difficult for elderly people to handle, and the risk of the device being left in an inoperable state due to a dead battery can be reduced.

[0081] In addition, the audio output device 100 has the first covering part 10a and the second covering part 10b, and is attached to the handset 220 by being biased into an annular shape (ring shape) with a flexible material, so that the first covering part 10a and the second covering part 10b are easily and reliably biased toward the handset 210 by anyone who attaches it, and stable support is established. In addition, as shown in FIG. 19, the handset 220 is stably supported regardless of its size and shape (elongated, curved, thick). In addition, since the second covering part 10b is biased toward the handset 220, even if the first sensing part 30 is strongly pressed, the second covering part 10b becomes a load receiving part and does not shift in position. In addition, it is possible to suppress an increase in size of the part opposite to the first covering part 10a (right side).

[0082] The effect of providing this device with a warning siren issuing function using the second sensor 31 is achieved by taking advantage of the characteristics of telephones that are used daily. In other words, since normal emergency sirens are not used in normal times, there are few opportunities to check the condition of the device, and there is a risk that it will be left in a broken state. In contrast, this device, which is attached to the handset, is checked for malfunctions every time the telephone is used, and if there is an abnormality such as a dead battery, it is repaired and is easily maintained in a healthy state at all times. In addition, since the handset is installed close to the user, it is possible to respond immediately. In this device, the second sensor 31 is located on the top surface 11 of the device, which is the most exposed part on the back side 223 of the handset, so it is highly visible and easy to operate immediately.

[0083] Moreover, since two surfaces (first covering portion 10a and second covering portion 10b) of audio output device 100 are biased toward handset 220, it is firmly supported by handset 220 and is resistant to the inertial force caused by a quick lifting action, and is unlikely to slip off. Moreover, since audio output device 100 of the first embodiment is disposed at approximately the center of first speaker 221a and first microphone 222a of handset 220, even if second sensing portion 31 is struck while handset 220 is placed in the handset holder, handset 220 will not come off the holder. Moreover, upper surface 11 on which second sensing portion 31 is disposed is an area that is not touched by the user during use, and does not get in the way.

[0084] Second embodiment FIG. 23 is a side view of a receiver 220 and a voice output device 100 according to a second embodiment of the present application, as viewed from the front. This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the first sensing unit 30 is provided on the right side of the first covering unit 10a. The first sensing unit 30 protrudes in the first direction away from the axis K beyond the side surface of the receiver 220. The configuration of this second embodiment also provides the same effect as the first embodiment. In this second embodiment, both the first sensing unit 30 and the second sensing unit 31 may be provided, or only one of them may be provided.

[0085] Third embodiment FIG. 24(a) is a perspective view of the receiver 220 and the audio output device 100 according to the third embodiment of the present application. In this third embodiment, the mounting fixture 300 has a tubular shape that is connected from the upper end 310 of the opening to the lower end 320 of the opening. The mounting fixture 300 is made of an elastic material, and the length of its vertical long axis is shorter than the length of the receiver 220 in the long axis direction and is approximately the same as the length of the audio output device 100 in the long axis direction. The length of the long axis direction of the mounting fixture 300 can be adjusted according to the range of the above-mentioned covered area. The first sensing unit 30 is exposed from a long hole formed in the mounting fixture 300 and protrudes greatly to the outside. In the mounting fixture 300, a gap or hole that communicates between the inside and outside is formed at a position corresponding to the third microphone 61 so as not to hinder sound collection by the third microphone 61.

[0086] When covering the receiver 220 and the audio output device 100 with the mounting fixture 300, first, the opening upper end 310 and the opening lower end 320 are spread radially, and the first end 221 is inserted into the mounting fixture 300 from the opening lower end 320 with the first end 221 as the tip. Next, the first end 221 is exposed from the opening upper end 310, and the audio output device 100 is inserted into the mounting fixture 300 in the radially spread state from either the opening upper end 310 or the opening lower end 320. After the audio output device 100 is placed at a predetermined position inside the mounting fixture 300 so as to contact the receiver 220, the inner wall of the mounting fixture 300 is fitted to the outer surfaces of the receiver 220 and the audio output device 100 by utilizing the restoring force of the mounting fixture 300. When the audio output device 100 is placed on the back surface 223 of the receiver 220, the audio output device 100 and the receiver 220 are held by friction with the inner surface of the mounting fixture 300. In this manner, the audio output device 100 is supported on the receiver 220 by being covered with the mounting fixture 300.

[0087] The mounting fixture 300 may have a through hole 330 near the opening lower end 320. It is preferable that the through hole 330 is positioned so that the second speaker 20 of the audio output device 100 is exposed to the outside through the through hole 330 when the audio output device 100 is covered by the mounting fixture 300. Note that the through hole 330 may be a notch provided in an edge portion corresponding to the opening lower end 320.

[0088] The elastic material constituting the attachment 300 may be, for example, but is not limited to, synthetic polymer materials such as silicon rubber, urethane rubber, NBR, synthetic latex, elastomers (TPE, TPR), natural polymer materials such as natural rubber, natural latex, net materials, cloth materials, etc. The color of the attachment 300 is arbitrary, but for example, the material may be provided with a color that matches the appearance of the handset 220, visual transparency, etc. The functionality of the attachment 300 is also arbitrary, but for example, the material may be provided with high friction properties that make it difficult to slip when gripped, low thermal conductivity that makes it feel warm when gripped, impact resistance that easily absorbs and disperses impacts caused by external forces, sterilization and antibacterial properties, etc.

[0089] In the third embodiment, the audio output device 100 is attached to the handset 220 by covering both of them with the attachment tool 300. Alternatively, only the handset 220 may be covered with a cover, and the audio output device 100 may be supported by connecting the audio output device 100 to the outer surface of the cover. Also, the attachment tool 300 may not be used. Specifically, the audio output device 100 may be supported on the handset 220 by using a connector that connects the handset 220 and the audio output device 100, an adhesive member that bonds them, or the like.

[0090] The audio output device 100 of this third embodiment can also be attached to a handset 220 that can be placed on the main body 210, but for example, as shown in Figures 24(a) and (b), a fixed telephone set 200 may be provided with a handset (handset unit) 240, and the audio output device 100 may be supported by the handset 240.

[0091] 24(a) and (b), handset 240 is formed of a housing having a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape extending in one axis. The housing of handset 240 is made of resin. Note that in handset 240, components that are the same or equivalent to those of main body 210 and handset 220 are given the same reference numerals and description thereof will be omitted.

[0092] 24(a) and (b) show a perspective view and a side view of the child unit 240. The child unit 240 is configured so as to be able to be placed upright on a horizontal surface. When placing the child unit 240 on a horizontal surface, the child unit 240 is placed on the horizontal surface with the first end 221 on the first speaker 221a side facing upward and the second end 222 on the first microphone 222a side facing the bottom. The child unit 240 is also able to wirelessly communicate with the main unit 210 when separated from the main unit 210.

[0093] <Effects of the third embodiment> As described above, according to the audio output device 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention, the housing 10 of the audio output device 100 supported by the receiver 220 is adapted to be held by a user (first speaker). When the housing 10 is held by the user's hand, the sensing unit 30 is pressed by a part of the user's body in response to the gripping, and the pressing is sensed. Then, based on the detection of the pressing by the sensing unit 30, a warning sound is output from the second speaker 20. For this reason, the warning sound can be output more reliably than when the movement of the receiver itself is detected by a motion sensor such as a tilt sensor.

[0094] In particular, even if the user is unfamiliar with machines (for example, an elderly person), no special operation is required and the warning sound can be output from the second speaker 20. Therefore, a warning can be issued more reliably to malicious others through the fixed telephone 200.

[0095] In the third embodiment, the housing 10 has a bottom surface 13 (first surface) facing the area A of the receiver 220, and the sensing unit 30 is provided on a surface (second surface) of the housing 10 different from the bottom surface 13 (first surface). The second surface can be a portion that is easily pressed by a part of the body such as the user's fingers or palm when the user holds the housing 10, or a portion that is inevitably pressed due to the structure. This allows the sensing unit 30 to be installed in a portion that is easily pressed or a portion that is inevitably pressed due to the structure. Therefore, when the housing 10 is held, the sensing unit 30 can be pressed more reliably. By setting the load sensed by the sensing unit 30 lower than the load required to hold the receiver, the receiver will naturally be held with a load equal to or greater than the set load in order to hold it, and therefore the sensing unit can always sense it when held.

[0096] In the third embodiment, the housing 10 has a lower surface 13 (first surface) facing the area A of the receiver 220, and the axis K and the receiver ends AL and AR are defined in the receiver 220. The first surface has a left end 13L (first end) and a right end 13R (first end), and the left end 13L is located farther from the axis K (leftward) than the receiver end AL in the left direction. This allows the housing 10 to be easily gripped when the receiver 220 is lifted by the user, or to be structured so that the user is forced to grip it. Therefore, the housing 10 can be gripped more reliably when the receiver 220 is lifted.

[0097] Moreover, in the third embodiment, audio output device 100 includes mounting fixture 300 that supports housing 10 to handset 220 by covering a part of receiver 220 and a part of housing 10. With this, housing 10 can be easily and reliably supported to handset 220 by mounting fixture 300. In Patent Documents 1 and 2, mounting fixture 300 is attached, which carries the risk of separation, but this risk of separation can be reduced.

[0098] Furthermore, mounting tool 300 may have a structure that supports housing 10 to handset 220 while fulfilling roles such as making handset 220 and housing 10 easier to grip, protecting handset 220 and housing 10, and improving design. The structure of mounting tool 300 that supports housing 10 is arbitrary, but for example, mounting tool 300 may cover housing 10 together with handset 220, or housing 10 may be fastened to mounting tool 300 covering handset 220. While mounting tool 300 has such a structure, it may have a through hole 330, for example, at a location corresponding to second speaker 20.

[0099] Therefore, as an effect of the third embodiment, it is possible to realize mounting fixture 300 that can reliably support housing 10 on receiver 220 and in which the warning sound is unlikely to be blocked by through-hole 330. Furthermore, mounting fixture 300 and other configurations of audio output device 100 can utilize inexpensive parts and materials, can have a simple configuration, and can reduce manufacturing costs, making it possible to make the overall product very inexpensive.

[0100] Furthermore, the attachment 300 may be made of an elastic material. In this case, the elastic restoring force of the elastic material can be utilized, making it possible to easily attach and detach the attachment 300 to and from the handset 220 and the housing 10, and once the attachment 300 is attached, it can be securely held by the handset 220 and the housing 10. Furthermore, when the attachment 300 is attached to the handset 220 and the housing 10, the relative position of the housing 10 to the handset 220 can be easily adjusted and changed.

[0101] In the third embodiment, the audio output device 100 includes a second microphone 60 that collects the speech output from the first speaker 221a, and a recording unit 50 that records the speech collected by the second microphone 60. The control unit 40 controls the output of the second speaker 20, and controls the recording of the speech collected by the second microphone 60 based on the detection by the first detection unit 30. This allows the speech to be recorded more reliably based on the pressure detection of the first detection unit 30. Therefore, the speech from a malicious person through the fixed telephone 200 can be recorded, and reliable evidence preservation is possible. In contrast, the alarm devices described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are equipped with a tilt sensor to detect the tilt or operation of the main unit, but the means for stopping the recording control for recording the speech is a timer. In the case of a timer, the timer is forcibly stopped when a set time is reached regardless of whether the call continues or ends, so that excessive or insufficient speech recording occurs and power consumption is wasted, making it impossible to reliably preserve evidence. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, since the recording can be limited to the period during which the user holds the casing 10 while on a call, the evidence is preserved without excess or deficiency, and the problems of the prior art described above do not exist. This is a major advantage.

[0102] (History of the invention) The inventors have recognized that there is room for improvement (problems) in the prior art in terms of the ambiguity of motion detection using tilt sensors and recording that relies on timers. The handset is held by the user so that it can be placed close to the ear and mouth. The inventors wondered if this act of holding could be utilized, and realized that if the gripping force is the cause of the output and input of the device, it would be possible to reliably issue a warning sound and record the call voice. First, the inventors considered the part of the handset 220 that is held. Gripping the end in the front-to-back (axis K) direction is impossible considering the size of the fingers. In addition, holding it in the up-down direction involves the meaningless and troublesome act of inserting fingers between the holder (main body 210) and the handset 220 from the placed state, and also creates an uncomfortable feeling of the fingers touching the face. In contrast, holding it in the left-to-right direction (first direction) is a very natural holding direction based on common sense. Therefore, they attempted to solve the problem by focusing on "holding in the left-to-right direction". As can be seen from the prior art (Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2), there is a common sense (obstructive factor) that the device should be small so that it cannot be touched when held. Going against this common sense, we attempted to enlarge the device by extending one of the left and right sides from the receiver so that it can be touched when held. As a result, the housing of the device gains a gripping force, enabling it to reliably emit a warning sound based on gripping and record calls without excess or deficiency, thereby solving two problems of the prior art at once. Furthermore, the inventors added a part to the housing of the device that covers one side of the handset. As a result, it was possible to determine a position that makes it easy to press the first sensing part, and to prevent the opposite side of the covering part from becoming too large. In addition, it has several advantages, such as being easily attached to various handset shapes. Furthermore, the inventors took note of the fact that the handset is always close to the user and that the device is stably and firmly attached to the handset, and added an emergency siren function with a second sensor that can be struck to immediately respond. The emergency siren function is expected to have the effect of minimizing damage and preventing harm not only in accidents at home but also in customer service situations such as in stores. Unlike replacing a telephone with one equipped with security features or installing an additional device, this device can be easily retrofitted to a handset and does not require any special settings or operation, making it easy for seniors to accept. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 10...housing, 12...left side, 13...bottom, 13L...left end, 13R...right end, 14...locking hole, 15...end, 20...second speaker, 30...first sensing unit (sensing unit), 31...second sensing unit, 40...control unit, 50...recording unit, 60...second microphone, 61...third microphone, 70...audio transmission unit, 71...diaphragm unit, 72...pipe unit, 100...audio output device, 200...fixed telephone, 220...handset, 221a...first speaker, 222a...first microphone, 223...back, 300...cover, A...area, AL...handset end, AR...handset end, K...axis

Claims

1. An audio output device is provided in an audio communication device that enables audio communication via a communication line between a first speaker and a second speaker who are separated from each other, and is configured to collect at least the speech of the first speaker by a first microphone and output the speech of the second speaker by a first speaker, and is attachable to a receiver having a back surface of the receiver opposite to the side where the first microphone and the first speaker are provided, and a pair of side surfaces extending in an axial direction from the first speaker to the first microphone, a housing attached to the receiver and held by the first speaker; a second speaker provided in the housing and configured to output a warning sound; a first sensing unit provided in the housing and configured to sense that the first speaker has pressed the device in response to the first speaker's grip; a control unit provided in the housing, the control unit performing audio output control for outputting the warning sound from the second speaker based on the detection by the first detection unit; Equipped with The housing includes a first covering portion facing a rear surface of the receiver unit, a second covering portion facing one of the pair of side surfaces; a connection portion connecting the first covering portion and the second covering portion, The first sensing unit senses pressure including a component perpendicular to the axial direction and along the back surface.

2. 2. The audio output device according to claim 1, A second microphone provided in the housing and configured to collect the speech sound; a recording unit provided in the housing and configured to record the speech sound collected by the second microphone; Further comprising: The control unit is In addition to the audio output control, the audio output device performs recording control to record the speech voice collected by the second microphone based on detection by the first detection unit.

3. 3. The audio output device according to claim 2, An audio output device, wherein the first sensing portion is provided on the second covering portion or the connection portion.

4. 4. The audio output device according to claim 3, The audio output device further comprises an attachment that covers a portion of the earpiece and attaches the housing to the earpiece.

5. 5. The audio output device according to claim 4, An intervening member is disposed between the receiver and the housing; The interposition member is a voice output device that is deformed to match the shape of the receiver.

6. 6. The audio output device according to claim 1, a second sensing unit is provided on a surface of the first covering unit opposite to the receiving unit; the second sensing unit senses pressure including a component perpendicular to the rear surface, The control unit performs second audio output control to output the warning sound from the second speaker based on the detection by the second detection unit.

7. An audio output device is provided in an audio communication device that enables audio communication via a communication line between a first speaker and a second speaker who are separated from each other, and is configured to collect at least the speech of the first speaker by a first microphone and output the speech of the second speaker by a first speaker, and is attachable to a receiver having a back surface of the receiver opposite to the side where the first microphone and the first speaker are provided, and a pair of side surfaces extending in an axial direction from the first speaker to the first microphone, The audio output device is A housing attached to the receiver unit; a mounting fixture that covers a portion of the receiver and mounts the housing to the receiver; Equipped with The housing includes: A second sensing unit that senses pressure; a second speaker for outputting a warning sound; a control unit that performs an alarm sound output control to output an alarm sound from the second speaker based on the detection by the second detection unit; Equipped with The housing includes: A first covering portion facing the back surface of the receiver portion; A second covering portion covering one of the pair of side surfaces; having The second sensing unit is provided on a surface of the first covering unit opposite the receiving unit, and senses pressure including a component perpendicular to the rear surface.

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