Refrigerator

Abstract

To provide a refrigerator capable of more securely notifying a user of information even when timing of the utterance of a refrigerator is overlapped.SOLUTION: A refrigerator 100 includes an utterance part 130 and a control part 110. The utterance part 130 utters. The control part 110 controls the utterance part 130 to utter based on the generation of an utterance command. The utterance command includes a first utterance command and a second utterance command. The first utterance command is an utterance command related to a first utterance, and the second utterance command is an utterance command related to a second utterance. The second utterance command is generated later than the first utterance command. When the second utterance command is generated during the utterance part 130 performs the first utterance, the control part 110 controls the utterance part 130 to perform the second utterance after the first utterance is completed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to refrigerators. [Background technology]

[0002] The refrigerator in Patent Document 1 includes an operation switch, an audio device with a speaker, and a control device. The control device has audio control means for controlling the speaker to provide audio notification of the details of each operation function set by the operation switch. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-71259 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the refrigerator described in Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration control when the refrigerators' speech (voice output) timings overlap, and there is a possibility that the refrigerator may not be able to notify the user of information.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-described problems, and has an object to provide a refrigerator that can more reliably notify a user of information even when the refrigerators' utterance timings overlap. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A refrigerator according to the present disclosure includes a speech unit and a control unit. The speech unit speaks. The control unit controls the speech unit to speak based on the generation of a speech command. The speech command includes a first speech command and a second speech command. The first speech command is the speech command related to the first utterance. The second speech command is the speech command related to the second utterance. The second speech command is generated after the first speech command. If the second speech command is generated while the speech unit is making the first utterance, the control unit controls the speech unit to make the second utterance after the first utterance is completed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present disclosure, even if the refrigerators' utterance timings overlap, information can be more reliably notified to the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a speech system including a refrigerator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 shows a block diagram of a speech system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram showing the processing contents of the control unit when a second speech command is issued during a first speech. FIG. [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a refrigerator speech generation method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 10 is a diagram showing the contents of speech with respect to the time that has elapsed since the door section has been kept open, and the processing contents of the control section when a second speech command is issued during a first speech. FIG. [Figure 13] 10 is a diagram showing the processing contents of the control unit when a second speech command is issued during a first speech. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the processing contents when the speech volume is set to 0. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and description thereof will not be repeated.

[0010] A refrigerator 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a speech system 1 including a refrigerator 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0011] The speech system 1 includes a refrigerator 100, a server 200, and an electric device 300. The electric device 300, the refrigerator 100, and the server 200 are connected to each other via a network N so that they can communicate with each other. The network N is, for example, the Internet, a local area network (LAN), or a wide area network (WAN). Various communication devices are connected to the network N. The various communication devices are, for example, a router, a bridge, an access point, a hub, and a repeater. The server 200 and the electric device 300 are examples of "external devices."

[0012] The refrigerator 100 cools stored objects, which may be food or beverages, and is located in a domestic kitchen or dining room.

[0013] The refrigerator 100 can communicate with the server 200 via the network N. The refrigerator 100 can also communicate with the electric appliance 300 via the network N and the server 200.

[0014] The refrigerator 100 includes a first refrigerating compartment 10, a second refrigerating compartment 20, and a freezer compartment 30.

[0015] The first refrigeration compartment 10 is a storage section for storing objects. The objects stored in the first refrigeration compartment 10 are cooled. For example, in the first refrigeration compartment 10, the objects are cooled to a temperature of 1 degree or higher.

[0016] The first refrigerator compartment 10 has a first door section 11. The first refrigerator compartment 10 has an opening. More specifically, the first refrigerator compartment 10 is box-shaped with a portion open. The first refrigerator compartment 10 corresponds to an example of a "main body section." The first door section 11 opens and closes the opening of the first refrigerator compartment 10. In other words, the first door section 11 opens or closes the opening. The first door section 11 corresponds to an example of a "door section."

[0017] The second refrigeration compartment 20 is a storage section that stores objects. The objects stored in the second refrigeration compartment 20 are cooled. For example, in the second refrigeration compartment 20, the objects are cooled to a temperature of 4 degrees or higher.

[0018] The second refrigerator compartment 20 has a second door section 21. The second refrigerator compartment 20 has an opening. More specifically, the second refrigerator compartment 20 is box-shaped with a portion open. The second refrigerator compartment 20 corresponds to an example of a "main body section." The second door section 21 opens and closes the opening of the second refrigerator compartment 20. In other words, the second door section 21 opens or closes the opening. The second door section 21 corresponds to an example of a "door section."

[0019] The freezer compartment 30 is a storage section that stores an object. The object stored in the freezer compartment 30 is cooled. Specifically, the object stored in the freezer compartment 30 freezes when cooled. The object is, for example, water. For example, the water stored in the freezer compartment 30 is cooled and turns into ice.

[0020] The freezer compartment 30 has a third door section 31. The freezer compartment 30 has an opening. More specifically, the freezer compartment 30 is box-shaped with a partial opening. The freezer compartment 30 corresponds to an example of a "main body section." The third door section 31 opens and closes the opening of the freezer compartment 30. In other words, the third door section 31 opens or closes the opening. The third door section 31 corresponds to an example of a "door section."

[0021] The server 200 can communicate with the electric device 300 via the network N. The server 200 can also communicate with the refrigerator 100 via the network N.

[0022] Electrical appliances 300 can communicate with server 200 via network N. Electrical appliances 300 are home appliances such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, and microwave ovens.

[0023] Next, the speech system 1 will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 2 shows a block diagram of the speech system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0024] Refrigerator 100 includes control unit 110, memory unit 120, speech unit 130, cooling unit 140, open / close detection unit 150, communication unit 160, operation unit 170, and notification unit 180. Refrigerator 100 has a speech function.

[0025] Control unit 110 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and a storage device. For example, control unit 110 receives various signals from each element of refrigerator 100 and controls each element of refrigerator 100 based on the received signals. Specifically, control unit 110 controls each element of refrigerator 100, such as storage unit 120, speech unit 130, cooling unit 140, open / close detection unit 150, communication unit 160, operation unit 170, and alarm unit 180. For example, control unit 110 controls speech unit 130 to speak based on the generation of a speech command.

[0026] The storage unit 120 stores data and computer programs. For example, the storage unit 120 temporarily stores data necessary for each process of the control unit 110 and stores setting data for the cooling unit 140. The storage unit 120 includes storage devices (main storage device and auxiliary storage device), such as a memory and a hard disk drive. The storage unit 120 may also include removable media.

[0027] The speech unit 130 makes a speech. "Speech" refers to issuing a message. For example, the speech unit 130 issues a message that contains information about the refrigerator 100, such as "The ice tray has been cleaned." Alternatively, the speech unit 130 may issue a message that contains information about the electrical appliance 300, such as "The laundry is completed." Alternatively, the message may be information about the result of an operation performed by the user on the refrigerator 100, such as "Registering the configured device." The speech unit 130 may issue a melody such as a jingle. The volume of the speech unit 130 can be adjusted.

[0028] The cooling section 140 cools the first refrigerating compartment 10, the second refrigerating compartment 20, and the freezer compartment 30.

[0029] The cooling unit 140 includes a refrigerant, refrigerant piping, a compression unit, a condensation unit, an expansion unit, an evaporation unit, a fan, a cold air passage, and a damper. The refrigerant transports heat. The refrigerant piping guides the refrigerant. The refrigerant piping connects the compression unit, condensation unit, expansion unit, and evaporation unit, and the refrigerant circulates among the compression unit, condensation unit, expansion unit, and evaporation unit.

[0030] The compression section compresses the liquid refrigerant, increasing its temperature and pressure. The condensation section dissipates heat from the gas that has been heated and compressed in the compression section, converting it into a room-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant. The expansion section rapidly reduces the pressure on the room-temperature, high-pressure liquid refrigerant, vaporizing it. The vaporized refrigerant absorbs heat from the surrounding air in the evaporation section, liquefying it and cooling the surrounding air. The fan blows the cooled air into the cold air passage. The cold air passage guides the cold air to the first refrigerator compartment 10, the second refrigerator compartment 20, and the freezer compartment 30.

[0031] The open / close detection unit 150 is an open / close sensor that detects the opening and closing of the door unit. The open / close detection unit 150 detects that the opening is opened or that the opening is closed. More specifically, the open / close detection unit 150 detects that the door unit is opened and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 110. The open / close detection unit 150 also detects that the door unit is closed and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 110.

[0032] Specifically, for example, the open / close detection unit 150 is disposed at the opening of the first refrigerator compartment 10. The open / close detection unit 150 detects that the first door unit 11 is opened, and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 110. The open / close detection unit 150 also detects that the first door unit 11 is closed, and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 110.

[0033] Furthermore, the refrigerator 100 may have multiple open / close detection units 150. For example, the refrigerator 100 has three open / close detection units 150. One of the three open / close detection units 150 detects, for example, the open / close operation of the first door unit 11. Another of the three open / close detection units 150 detects, for example, the open / close operation of the second door unit 21. Yet another of the three open / close detection units 150 detects, for example, the open / close operation of the third door unit 31.

[0034] The communication unit 160 is capable of communicating with the server 200. Specifically, the communication unit 160 is capable of wired or wireless communication with the server 200. The communication unit 160 transmits and receives data to and from the server 200.

[0035] The communication unit 160 communicates with the server 200 via, for example, the network N. The communication unit 160 may include, for example, a network interface controller (NIC) that performs communication according to a predetermined communication protocol. The communication unit 160 may also include, for example, a wireless communication module.

[0036] The operation unit 170 receives operations from the user and includes, for example, operation buttons.

[0037] The notification unit 180 notifies notification information. The notification unit 180 is, for example, a buzzer. The notification unit 180 outputs, for example, an electronic sound. In detail, the notification unit 180 can output an alarm sound to alert the user. The notification information is, for example, information that warns that the door units (first door unit 11, second door unit 21, and third door unit 31) have been open for a long period of time.

[0038] The server 200 includes a control unit 210, a storage unit 220, and a communication unit 230.

[0039] The control unit 210 includes a processor, such as a CPU or an ASIC, and a storage device. For example, the control unit 210 controls the communication unit 230 to transmit function information to the electric device 300.

[0040] The storage unit 220 stores data and computer programs. For example, the storage unit 220 temporarily stores data necessary for each process of the control unit 210 and stores function information of the refrigerator 100. The storage unit 220 includes storage devices (main storage device and auxiliary storage device), such as a memory and a hard disk drive. The storage unit 220 may also include removable media.

[0041] The communication unit 230 is capable of wired or wireless communication with the refrigerator 100 and the electrical appliance 300. The communication unit 230 transmits and receives data between the refrigerator 100 and the electrical appliance 300. The communication unit 230 communicates with the refrigerator 100 and the electrical appliance 300 via, for example, a network N. The communication unit 230 may include, for example, a network interface controller (NIC) that performs communication according to a predetermined communication protocol. The communication unit 230 may also include, for example, a wireless communication module.

[0042] Continuing with reference to FIG. 2, the process executed by the control unit 110 of the refrigerator 100 will be described in detail.

[0043] The control unit 110 controls the speech unit 130 to speak based on the generation of the speech command.

[0044] The speech command includes a first speech command and a second speech command. The first speech command is a speech command related to the first utterance. The second speech command is a speech command related to the second utterance. The second speech command occurs after the first speech command. In other words, the second utterance is an utterance that is scheduled to be uttered by the speech unit 130 after the first utterance.

[0045] A second utterance command may be issued while utterance unit 130 is making a first utterance. When a second utterance command is issued while utterance unit 130 is making a first utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make a second utterance after the first utterance is completed. A specific example will be described in which the content of the first utterance is a message, "Laundry is completed," indicating information about electrical appliance 300, and the content of the second utterance is a message, "Ice tray cleaning is completed," indicating information about refrigerator 100. When ice tray cleaning is completed while utterance unit 130 is making an utterance of the message, "Laundry is completed," control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to start making an utterance of the message, "Ice tray cleaning is completed," (second utterance) after utterance unit 130 completes making an utterance of the message, "Laundry is completed," (first utterance). Therefore, even when the timing of utterances from refrigerator 100 overlap, the user can be notified of information.

[0046] A speech method for refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3. Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a speech method for refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Speech is performed by executing the processes of steps S102 to S118 shown in Figure 3.

[0047] Step S102: A first speech command is generated. For example, information about electrical appliance 300 is transmitted to server 200 via network N. For example, if electrical appliance 300 is a washing machine, a signal indicating that the washing is complete is transmitted to server 200. Upon receiving the signal indicating that the washing is complete, server 200 transmits a first speech command signal to refrigerator 100 via network N. The first speech command signal may be voice data itself, or may be information specifying specific voice data from multiple voice data stored in advance in storage unit 120 of refrigerator 100. As a result, control unit 110 receives the first speech command signal via communication unit 160. The process proceeds to step S104.

[0048] Step S104: Based on the occurrence of the first utterance command, control unit 110 outputs a first utterance request signal to utterance unit 130. That is, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make the first utterance. The process proceeds to step S106.

[0049] Step S106: The utterance unit 130 makes a first utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 makes an utterance of the message "Laundry is completed." The process proceeds to step S108.

[0050] Step S108: Control unit 110 determines whether or not a second speech command has been issued. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has not been issued (Step S108: No), the process proceeds to Step S112. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has been issued (Step S108: Yes), the process proceeds to Step S110.

[0051] Step S110: The control unit 110 stores the second utterance waiting flag in the storage unit 120. Note that the control unit 110 may transmit the second utterance waiting flag to the server 200. The process proceeds to step S112.

[0052] Step S112: Control unit 110 determines whether or not utterance unit 130 has completed the first utterance. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has not completed the first utterance (step S112: No), the process returns to step S108. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has completed the first utterance (step S112: Yes), the process proceeds to step S114. That is, control unit 110 performs the processes of steps S108 to S112 until utterance unit 130 completes the first utterance.

[0053] Step S114: The control unit 110 determines whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present. Specifically, the control unit 110 determines whether or not a second utterance wait flag is stored in the storage unit 120. Note that, if the control unit 110 has transmitted the second utterance wait flag to the server 200, the control unit 110 may determine whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present by inquiring of the server 200 as to whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present. If the control unit 110 determines that a second utterance wait flag is not present (step S114: No), the process ends. If the control unit 110 determines that a second utterance wait flag is present (step S114: Yes), the process proceeds to step S116.

[0054] Step S116: Control unit 110 outputs a second utterance request signal to utterance unit 130. That is, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make the second utterance. Note that, if the second utterance command signal is voice data itself, control unit 110 may request server 200 to output the second utterance command signal again. The process proceeds to step S118.

[0055] Step S118: The utterance unit 130 makes a second utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 makes an utterance of the message "Ice tray cleaning is complete." The process then ends.

[0056] The speech processing of refrigerator 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be further described with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 4. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the processing performed by control unit 110 when a second speech command is issued during a first speech.

[0057] The spoken commands include a self-device spoken command and an external device spoken command. In FIG. 4, a local utterance refers to an utterance uttered based on a self-device spoken command. A self-device spoken command is a spoken command generated in the self-device (refrigerator 100). A self-device spoken command is, for example, a spoken command generated when cleaning of an ice tray is completed. Also in FIG. 4, a cloud utterance refers to an utterance uttered based on an external device spoken command. An external device spoken command is a spoken command input from an external device (server 200) via communication unit 160. An external device spoken command is, for example, a spoken command generated when washing by a washing machine (electrical appliance 300) is completed.

[0058] In this embodiment, local speech is set to have a higher priority than cloud speech.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, when the first utterance is a local utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a local utterance, the control unit 110 controls the utterance unit 130 to start the second utterance after the first utterance is completed.

[0060] Furthermore, if the first utterance is a local utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a cloud utterance, the control unit 110 controls the utterance unit 130 to start the second utterance after the first utterance is completed.

[0061] Furthermore, when the first utterance is a cloud utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a local utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to start the second utterance after the first utterance is completed. Furthermore, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to notify the user of the occurrence of a second utterance command during the first utterance. In other words, when the first utterance command is an external device utterance command and the second utterance command is a local device utterance command, and the second utterance command is generated while utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to notify the user of the occurrence of the second utterance command. For example, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to output an electronic sound over the first utterance by utterance unit 130. This allows the user to be notified that the second utterance will be made following the first utterance. Therefore, it is possible to confirm that the second utterance (local utterance) which has a higher priority than the first utterance (cloud utterance) has occurred. As a result, even if the timing of the utterances from refrigerator 100 overlaps, it is possible to notify the user that important information has occurred.

[0062] Furthermore, when the first utterance is a cloud utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a cloud utterance, the timing of the first utterance and the second utterance is processed by server 200. Control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to start the second utterance after the first utterance is completed, based on the first utterance command and the second utterance command output from server 200. Therefore, there is no need for control by control unit 110 of refrigerator 100.

[0063] As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 4, when a second utterance command is issued while utterance unit 130 is making a first utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make the second utterance after the first utterance is completed. Therefore, even if the utterances of refrigerator 100 overlap, information can be notified to the user.

[0064] Furthermore, if a second utterance command is issued while utterance unit 130 is making a first utterance, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to notify the user of information indicating that the second utterance command has been issued. This allows the user to be notified that the second utterance will be issued following the first utterance. As a result, even if the timing of refrigerator 100's utterances overlaps, the information can be more reliably notified to the user.

[0065] In particular, when the first speech command is an external device speech command, the second speech command is a self-speech command, and the second speech command is issued while speech unit 130 is making the first speech, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to notify information indicating that the second speech command has been issued. This allows the user to be notified that the second speech will be issued following the first speech. This makes it possible to confirm that an event has occurred, the second speech (local speech based on a self-speech command) which has a higher priority than the first speech (cloud speech based on an external device speech command). As a result, even if the timing of speeches from refrigerator 100 overlaps, the user can be notified that important information has been issued.

[0066] In the above embodiment, the content of the speech command issued by the user's own device has a higher priority than the content of the speech command issued by an external device. However, this is not limiting, and the content of the speech command issued by an external device may have a higher priority than the content of the speech command issued by the user's own device. Furthermore, a specific content of the speech command issued by the user's own device and the external device may be set to have a higher priority. For example, if a second speech command with a higher priority is issued while the speech unit 130 is making a first speech, the control unit 110 controls the notification unit 180 to notify information indicating that the second speech command has been issued.

[0067] Next, a speech method for refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 5 to 7. In particular, a speech method for when the first utterance is repeatedly performed will be described. FIGS. 5 to 7 are flowcharts showing a speech method for refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Speech is performed by executing the processes of steps S202 to S208 shown in FIG. 5, steps S210 to S222 shown in FIG. 6, and steps S226 to S238 shown in FIG. 7. The flowcharts shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 are similar to the flowchart shown in FIG. 3, except that the first utterance is repeatedly performed, and therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted to avoid redundancy.

[0068] The following describes an example in which the first utterance is a message utterance of "The door is open" and the second utterance is a message utterance of "The ice tray cleaning is complete." The control unit 110 can execute a repeat utterance process that controls the utterance unit 130 to repeat the first utterance from when the repeat start condition is satisfied until the repeat end condition is satisfied. The control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied when the open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the opening is open for a predetermined period of time. Furthermore, the control unit 110 determines that the repeat end condition is satisfied when the control unit 110 detects that the opening is closed after determining that the repeat start condition is satisfied. In other words, the control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied when at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31 has been open for a predetermined period of time. In addition, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition termination condition is met when at least one of the first door section 11, the second door section 21 and the third door section 31 remains open for a predetermined period of time, and then all of the first door section 11, the second door section 21 and the third door section 31 that were open become closed.

[0069] Step S202: A first speech command is issued. Specifically, when at least one of the first door section 11, the second door section 21, and the third door section 31 is opened for a predetermined period of time, the control section 110 determines that a first speech command has been issued. The predetermined period of time is, for example, one minute. The process proceeds to step S204.

[0070] Step S204: Based on the occurrence of the first utterance command, control unit 110 outputs a first utterance request signal to utterance unit 130. That is, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make the first utterance. The process proceeds to step S206.

[0071] Step S206: Control unit 110 determines whether the repeat start condition is satisfied. Here, control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied if open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the door is open for a predetermined period of time. If control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is not satisfied (step S206: No), the process proceeds to step S226 shown in Fig. 7. If control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied (step S206: Yes), the process proceeds to step S208.

[0072] Step S208: The utterance unit 130 repeatedly utters the first utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 repeatedly utters the message "The door is open." In parallel with the processing of step S208, the process proceeds to step S210 shown in FIG.

[0073] Step S210: Control unit 110 determines whether a second speech command has been issued. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has not been issued (step S210: No), the process proceeds to step S214. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has been issued (step S210: Yes), the process proceeds to step S212.

[0074] Step S212: The control unit 110 stores the second utterance waiting flag in the storage unit 120. Note that the control unit 110 may transmit the second utterance waiting flag to the server 200. The process proceeds to step S214.

[0075] Step S214: The control unit 110 determines whether the repetition end condition is satisfied. Here, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is not satisfied if the open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the opening has been opened for a predetermined period of time. On the other hand, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied if the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31 that were open are all closed. If the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is not satisfied (Step S214: No), the process returns to Step S210. If the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied (Step S214: Yes), the process proceeds to Step S216.

[0076] Step S216: The utterance unit 130 ends the first utterance. More specifically, the control unit 110 controls the utterance unit 130 to end the first utterance. The control unit 110 ends the first utterance of the utterance unit 130 in the middle of the message of the first utterance, such as "The door is open." Note that the control unit 110 may end the first utterance of the utterance unit 130 after speaking up to the end of the first utterance message, "The door is open." The process proceeds to step S218.

[0077] Step S218: The control unit 110 determines whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present. Specifically, the control unit 110 determines whether or not a second utterance wait flag is stored in the storage unit 120. Note that, if the control unit 110 has transmitted the second utterance wait flag to the server 200, the control unit 110 may determine whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present by inquiring of the server 200 as to whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present. If the control unit 110 determines that a second utterance wait flag is not present (step S218: No), the process ends. If the control unit 110 determines that a second utterance wait flag is present (step S218: Yes), the process proceeds to step S220.

[0078] Step S220: Control unit 110 outputs a second utterance request signal to utterance unit 130. That is, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make a second utterance. The process proceeds to step S222.

[0079] Step S222: The utterance unit 130 makes a second utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 makes an utterance of the message "Cleaning of the ice tray is complete." The process then ends.

[0080] Control unit 110 repeats the first utterance in step S208 and the processes of steps S210 to S214 until control unit 110 satisfies the repetition end condition (step S214: Yes). Specifically, utterance unit 130 repeats uttering the message "The door is open" until all open doors (at least one of first door unit 11, second door unit 21, and third door unit 31) are closed.

[0081] Steps S226 to S238: The same processes as steps S106 to S118 shown in Fig. 3 are performed. As a result, after the first utterance is completed, the second utterance is performed.

[0082] As described above with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 5 to 7, the control unit 110 can execute a repeat utterance process that controls the utterance unit 130 to repeat the first utterance from when the repeat start condition is satisfied until the repeat end condition is satisfied. When the control unit 110 executes the repeat utterance process and a second utterance command is generated while the utterance unit 130 is repeating the first utterance, the control unit 110 determines that the repeat end condition is satisfied and then controls the utterance unit 130 to end the first utterance and make the second utterance. Therefore, the second utterance can be heard after the user completes the task related to the first utterance. For example, the second utterance, "The ice tray has been cleaned," can be heard after all of the doors (at least one of the first door 11, the second door 21, and the third door 31) that were open as part of the task related to the first utterance, "The door is open," are closed. As a result, the possibility of forgetting to close the door section (at least one of the first door section 11, the second door section 21 and the third door section 31) is reduced, and the content of the second utterance can be heard after closing the door section (at least one of the first door section 11, the second door section 21 and the third door section 31).

[0083] Next, a speech method for refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1, 2, and 8 to 11. Specifically, a case will be described in which the warning that the door is open is switched from speech to an electronic sound in the speech method when a first utterance is repeatedly made. FIGS. 8 to 11 are flowcharts illustrating a speech method for refrigerator 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Speech is made by executing the processes of steps S302 to S308 shown in FIG. 8, steps S310 to S322 shown in FIG. 9, steps S324 to S340 shown in FIG. 10, and steps S342 to S354 shown in FIG. 11. The flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11 are similar to the flowcharts illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7, except that, when a second speech command is issued while speech unit 130 is repeatedly making a first utterance, speech unit 130 is controlled to end the first utterance and make a second utterance, and alarm unit 180 is controlled to emit a warning sound. Therefore, to avoid redundancy, repeated explanations will be omitted.

[0084] Below, an example will be explained in which the first utterance is the message "The door is open" and the second utterance is the message "The ice tray has been cleaned."

[0085] Steps S302 and S304: The same processes as steps S202 and S204 shown in Fig. 5 are performed. The process proceeds to step S306.

[0086] Step S306: Control unit 110 determines whether the repeat start condition is satisfied. Here, control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied if open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the door is open for a predetermined period of time. If control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is not satisfied (step S306: No), the process proceeds to step S342 shown in Fig. 11. If control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied (step S306: Yes), the process proceeds to step S308.

[0087] Step S308: The utterance unit 130 makes a first utterance once. For example, the utterance unit 130 makes a message "The door is open" once. In parallel with the processing of step S308, the process proceeds to step S310 shown in FIG. 9.

[0088] Step S310: Control unit 110 determines whether a second speech command has been issued. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has not been issued (step S310: No), the process proceeds to step S314. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has been issued (step S310: Yes), the process proceeds to step S312.

[0089] Step S312: The control unit 110 stores the second utterance waiting flag in the storage unit 120. Note that the control unit 110 may transmit the second utterance waiting flag to the server 200. The process proceeds to step S314.

[0090] Step S314: Control unit 110 determines whether or not utterance unit 130 has completed the first utterance. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has not completed the first utterance (step S314: No), the process returns to step S310. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has completed the first utterance (step S314: Yes), the process proceeds to step S316. That is, control unit 110 performs the processes of steps S310 to S314 until utterance unit 130 completes the first utterance.

[0091] Step S316: The control unit 110 determines whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present. Specifically, the control unit 110 determines whether or not a second utterance wait flag is stored in the storage unit 120. Note that, if the control unit 110 has transmitted the second utterance wait flag to the server 200, the control unit 110 may determine whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present by inquiring of the server 200 as to whether or not a second utterance wait flag is present. If the control unit 110 determines that a second utterance wait flag is not present (step S316: No), the process proceeds to step S322. If the control unit 110 determines that a second utterance wait flag is present (step S316: Yes), the process proceeds to step S318.

[0092] Step S318: The control unit 110 outputs a second utterance request signal to the utterance unit 130. That is, the control unit 110 controls the utterance unit 130 to make a second utterance. The process proceeds to step S320.

[0093] Step S320: The utterance unit 130 makes a second utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 makes an utterance of the message "Ice tray cleaning is complete." The process proceeds to step S322.

[0094] Step S322: The control unit 110 determines whether the repetition end condition is satisfied. Here, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is not satisfied if the open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the opening has been opened for a predetermined period of time. On the other hand, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied if the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31 that were open are all closed. If the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is not satisfied (Step S322: No), the process proceeds to Step S324 shown in FIG. 10. If the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied (Step S322: Yes), the process ends.

[0095] Step S324: The utterance unit 130 repeatedly utters the first utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 repeatedly utters the message "The door is open." In parallel with the processing of step S324, the process proceeds to step S326.

[0096] Step S326: Control unit 110 determines whether or not a second speech command has been issued. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has not been issued (step S326: No), the process proceeds to step S334. If control unit 110 determines that a second speech command has been issued (step S326: Yes), the process proceeds to step S328.

[0097] Step S328: Control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to end the first utterance and controls notification unit 180 to make a notification. Specifically, utterance unit 130 ends the first utterance. Specifically, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to end the first utterance. Control unit 110 ends the first utterance of utterance unit 130 in the middle of the message of the first utterance, such as "The door is open." Note that control unit 110 may end the first utterance of utterance unit 130 after uttering the end of the first utterance message, "The door is open." Furthermore, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to emit a warning sound. The warning sound is, for example, an electronic sound such as "PiPiPi PiPiPi." Processing proceeds to step S330.

[0098] Step S330: Control unit 110 outputs a second utterance request signal to utterance unit 130. That is, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make a second utterance. The process proceeds to step S332.

[0099] Step S332: The utterance unit 130 performs a second utterance. For example, the utterance unit 130 utters a message such as "Ice tray cleaning is complete." The process proceeds to step S334.

[0100] Step S334: The control unit 110 determines whether the repetition end condition is satisfied. Here, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is not satisfied if the open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the opening has been opened for a predetermined period of time. On the other hand, the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied if the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31 that were open are all closed. If the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is not satisfied (Step S334: No), the process proceeds to Step S336. If the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied (Step S334: Yes), the process proceeds to Step S340.

[0101] Step S336: Control unit 110 determines whether or not utterance unit 130 has completed the second utterance. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has not completed the second utterance (step S336: No), the process returns to step S332. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has completed the second utterance (step S336: Yes), the process proceeds to step S338. That is, control unit 110 performs the processes of steps S332 to S336 until it determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied or until utterance unit 130 completes the second utterance. At this time, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to continue making a notification until it determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied or until utterance unit 130 completes the second utterance. For example, the alarm unit 180 continues to sound an electronic sound such as "PiPiPi PiPiPi" over the second utterance until all open door sections (at least one of the first door section 11, the second door section 21, and the third door section 31) are closed or the speech unit 130 completes the second utterance of "Ice tray cleaning is complete."

[0102] Step S338: Control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to end the notification by notification unit 180. As a result, the electronic sound such as "PiPiPi PiPiPi" stops. The process returns to step S324, and the first utterance is resumed.

[0103] Step S340: Control unit 110 determines whether or not utterance unit 130 has completed the second utterance. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has not completed the second utterance (Step S340: No), the process returns to Step S340. If it is determined that utterance unit 130 has completed the second utterance (Step S336: Yes), the process ends.

[0104] Steps S342 to S354: The same processes as steps S106 to S118 shown in Fig. 3 are performed. As a result, after the first utterance is completed, the second utterance is performed.

[0105] As described above, in this embodiment, when the first utterance is a repeated process, if a second utterance command is received during the first utterance, the second utterance is made after the first utterance is completed, and then the first utterance is repeated. If the first utterance is being repeated for the second or subsequent times, the first utterance is interrupted and switched to notification by notification unit 180, and the second utterance is immediately uttered. When the second utterance is completed, the process returns to repeating the first utterance. By performing the process in this manner, the first utterance can be spoken at least once, and incomplete notification of the first utterance content can be prevented. Then, when the second utterance is repeated for the second or subsequent times, the second utterance is output, thereby minimizing delays in notification of the second utterance.

[0106] 1, 2, and 8 to 11, if a second utterance command is issued while control unit 110 is executing the repeated utterance process and utterance unit 130 is repeating a first utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to end the first utterance and make the second utterance, and controls notification unit 180 to emit a warning sound. Therefore, it is possible to notify the user that the warning for the first utterance is continuing, while also notifying the user of the content of the second utterance.

[0107] The control unit 110 determines that the repeat start condition is satisfied when the open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the opening has been opened for a predetermined period of time. The control unit 110 determines that the repeat end condition is satisfied when the control unit 110 detects that the opening has been closed after determining that the repeat start condition is satisfied. Therefore, if the second speech command is issued while the speech unit 130 is repeatedly making the first speech, the control unit 110 controls the alarm unit 180 to continue emitting an alarm sound until all of the open doors (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) are closed. As a result, it is possible to prevent the door units (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) from being left unclosed.

[0108] The content of the first utterance may be switched depending on the time that has passed since the door unit (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) has been continuously open. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing the content of the utterance in relation to the time that has passed since the door unit (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) has been continuously open, and the processing content of the control unit 110 when a second utterance command is issued during the first utterance.

[0109] As shown in Fig. 12, when one minute has passed since the door unit (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) has been continuously open, the content of the first utterance is an electronic sound. In other words, when the open / close detection unit 150 continues to detect that the opening has been opened for one minute, the control unit 110 controls the alarm unit 180 to emit a warning sound. When the second speech command is issued while the alarm unit 180 is emitting a warning sound (electronic sound), the second speech is superimposed on the electronic sound. In other words, when the second speech command is issued, the control unit 110 controls the alarm unit 180 to emit a warning sound and also controls the speech unit 130 to make the second speech.

[0110] When two minutes have passed since the door unit (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) has been open, the content of the first utterance is to utter the message "The door is open" only once. When a second utterance command is issued while the utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance, the utterance unit 130 is controlled to make the second utterance after completing the first utterance. Note that while the utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance and while the utterance unit 130 is making the second utterance, the control unit 110 may control the alarm unit 180 to stop making the warning sound (electronic sound). Alternatively, the control unit 110 may control the alarm unit 180 to continue making the warning sound (electronic sound) while the utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance and while the utterance unit 130 is making the second utterance. After the utterance section 130 completes the second utterance, the control section 110 controls the notification section 180 to emit a warning sound (electronic sound) again.

[0111] When five minutes have passed since the door (at least one of the first door 11, the second door 21, and the third door 31) has been continuously open, the content of the first utterance is to repeatedly utter the message "The door is open." When a second utterance command is generated while the utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance, the utterance unit 130 is controlled to make the second utterance after completing the initial first utterance. Furthermore, when a second utterance command is generated while the first utterance is being repeated for the second or subsequent times, the control unit 110 controls the utterance unit 130 to interrupt the first utterance and make the second utterance. At this time, the control unit 110 controls the alarm unit 180 to emit a warning sound instead of the first utterance. After the utterance unit 130 completes the second utterance, the control unit 110 may again control the utterance unit 130 to repeat the first utterance. Alternatively, the control unit 110 may control the alarm unit 180 to continue emitting the warning sound. Until the control unit 110 determines that the repetition end condition is met, that is, until all of the doors that remain open (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) are closed, the control unit 110 controls to continue at least one of the warning by the first utterance of the utterance unit 130 and the warning by the notification unit 180. Therefore, it is possible to notify the user of the content of the second utterance while preventing the door unit (at least one of the first door unit 11, the second door unit 21, and the third door unit 31) from being left closed.

[0112] When the utterance unit 130 utters a command related to a user operation, it is preferable that the utterance be given priority over a command related to a user operation even if the timing of the utterance overlaps with other utterances. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing the processing contents of the control unit 110 when a second utterance command is issued during a first utterance.

[0113] The spoken command includes a user operation spoken command. This is a spoken command that is generated based on the operation unit 170 receiving a user operation. The user operation spoken command is generated, for example, when the user changes the settings of the refrigerator 100 using the operation unit 170. In FIG. 13, the user operation spoken command refers to a spoken command that is generated based on the user operation spoken command. The local spoken command and the cloud spoken command are the same as those described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0114] 13, when the first utterance is a user operation utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a local utterance, control unit 110 maintains the user operation utterance and changes the local utterance to a corresponding electronic sound and outputs them together. In particular, when the first utterance is a user operation utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a local utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to make a user operation utterance (first utterance) and controls notification unit 180 to sound an electronic sound corresponding to the local utterance. Note that control unit 110 may also control utterance unit 130 to make a local utterance after the user operation utterance is completed (after the first utterance is completed). Note that it is preferable to change the tone of the electronic sound depending on the content of the utterance.

[0115] Furthermore, if the first utterance is a user-operated utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a cloud utterance, the control unit 110 controls the utterance unit 130 to start the second utterance after the first utterance is completed.

[0116] Furthermore, if the first utterance is a local utterance and the second utterance made during the first utterance is a user operation utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to interrupt the first utterance and start the second utterance. In other words, if the first utterance command is a command other than a user operation utterance and the second utterance command is a user operation utterance command, and the second utterance command is issued while utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to interrupt the first utterance and start the second utterance. Therefore, as soon as the user operates operation unit 170, an utterance regarding the user's operation is made. Therefore, the user can confirm without delay that the operation on operation unit 170 has been accepted. As a result, even if the timing of the utterances made by refrigerator 100 overlaps, the user can confirm that the user's operation has been accepted.

[0117] Furthermore, if the first utterance is a cloud utterance and the second utterance during the first utterance is a user operation utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to interrupt the first utterance and start the second utterance. In other words, if the first utterance command is a command other than a user operation utterance and the second utterance command is a user operation utterance command, and the second utterance command is issued while utterance unit 130 is making the first utterance, control unit 110 controls utterance unit 130 to interrupt the first utterance and start the second utterance. Therefore, as soon as the user operates operation unit 170, an utterance regarding the user's operation is made. Therefore, the user can confirm without delay that the operation on operation unit 170 has been accepted. As a result, even if the timing of the refrigerator 100's utterances overlaps, the user can confirm that the user's operation has been accepted.

[0118] The following describes the processing performed when the speech volume is set to 0. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing the processing performed when the speech volume is set to 0.

[0119] When the type of speech is local speech and the volume is set to 0, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to emit an electronic sound. In other words, when the volume setting of speech unit 130 is set to 0 and the speech command is a self-speech command, control unit 110 controls notification unit 180 to emit a warning sound. Therefore, the user can confirm that an event related to refrigerator 100 has occurred. For example, the user can confirm by the electronic sound that the door has been open for a predetermined period of time or that cleaning of the ice tray has been completed.

[0120] When the type of speech is cloud speech and the volume is set to 0, the control unit 110 controls the speech unit 130 not to speak. In other words, when the volume setting of the speech unit 130 is set to 0 and the speech command is an external device speech command, the control unit 110 controls the speech unit 130 not to speak. Therefore, if the user does not want any sound to be emitted, it is possible to maintain a quiet state except for necessary notifications.

[0121] When the type of speech is a speech during a user operation, and the volume is set to 0, control unit 110 controls speech unit 130 to speak. In other words, when the volume setting of speech unit 130 is set to 0 and the speech command is a speech command during a user operation, control unit 110 controls speech unit 130 to speak. Therefore, the user can confirm that the operation has been accepted.

[0122] In addition, when multiple types of speech commands overlap and the alarm unit 180 needs to emit multiple types of electronic sounds, it is preferable that the alarm unit 180 output overlapping electronic sounds. For example, the alarm unit 180 outputs overlapping electronic sounds by time multiplexing, pitch shift multiplexing, or simple multiplexing. Time multiplexing refers to outputting electronic sounds with a time shift for each type of speech. Pitch shift multiplexing refers to outputting electronic sounds with a pitch change for each type of speech. Simple multiplexing refers to simply outputting overlapping electronic sounds.

[0123] The embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings (FIGS. 1 to 14). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure (for example, (1) to (2) shown below). The drawings mainly show each component in a schematic manner for ease of understanding, and the thickness, length, number, etc. of each component shown in the drawings may differ from the actual ones due to the convenience of creating the drawings. Furthermore, the materials, shapes, dimensions, etc. of each component shown in the above-described embodiments are merely examples and are not particularly limited, and various modifications are possible without substantially departing from the effects of the present disclosure.

[0124] (1) In the refrigerator 100 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14, the alarm unit 180 notifies the alarm information by emitting an electronic sound, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the alarm unit 180 may have a light-emitting unit that lights up or blinks to notify the alarm information. The light-emitting unit may be, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). Alternatively, the alarm unit 180 may have a display unit that notifies the alarm information by displaying a message on the display unit. The display unit may be, for example, a liquid crystal display. (2) In refrigerator 100 described with reference to Figures 1 to 14, the second utterance is made after the first utterance is completed, but control unit 110 may control utterance unit 130 to utter a jingle-like melody after the first utterance is completed and before the second utterance is made. As a result, the user can notice that the first utterance has been switched to the second utterance. [Industrial Applicability]

[0125] The present disclosure is applicable to the field of refrigerators. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 10 First refrigerator compartment (main body) 11 First door section (door section) 20 Second refrigerator compartment (main body) 21 Second door section (door section) 30 Freezer compartment (main body) 31 Third door section (door section) 100 refrigerator 110 control section 130 Speech Unit 150 Open / close detector 160 Communications Department 170 Operation section 180 Information Department 200 Server (external device) 300 Electrical Equipment (External Equipment)

Claims

1. a speech unit that speaks; a control unit that controls the speech unit to speak based on the generation of a speech command; Equipped with The spoken command is a first speech command, which is the speech command related to a first utterance; the speech command is related to a second utterance, and the second speech command occurs after the first speech command; Including, A refrigerator in which, when the second speech command is generated while the speech unit is making the first speech, the control unit controls the speech unit to make the second speech after the first speech is completed.

2. Further provided is a notification unit that notifies notification information, 2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein, when the second speech command is generated while the speech unit is making the first speech, the control unit controls the notification unit to notify information indicating that the second speech command has been generated.

3. Further comprising a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device; The spoken command is A command issued by the player's own aircraft; an external device speech command input from the external device via the communication unit; Including, 3. The refrigerator according to claim 2, wherein when the first speech command is the external device speech command and the second speech command is the self-speech command, and the second speech command is generated while the speech unit is performing the first speech, the control unit controls the notification unit to notify information indicating that the second speech command has been generated.

4. Further provided is a notification unit that notifies notification information, the notification unit is capable of outputting a warning sound to warn a user, the control unit is capable of executing a repeat utterance process of controlling the utterance unit to repeat the first utterance from when a repetition start condition is satisfied until a repetition end condition is satisfied; 2. The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein when the second speech command is generated while the control unit is executing the repeated speech processing and the speech unit is repeatedly making the first speech, the control unit controls the speech unit to end the first speech and make the second speech, and the alarm unit controls the alarm unit to emit the warning sound.

5. a main body having an opening; a door portion that opens or closes the opening; an open / close detection unit that detects whether the opening is opened or closed; Furthermore, The refrigerator according to claim 4, wherein the control unit determines that the repetition start condition is satisfied when the opening / closing detection unit continues to detect that the opening is opened for a predetermined period of time, and determines that the repetition end condition is satisfied when the opening / closing detection unit detects that the opening is closed after determining that the repetition start condition is satisfied.

6. further comprising an operation unit that accepts user operations; the utterance command includes a user operation utterance command that is generated based on the operation unit receiving a user operation, When the first speech command is a speech command other than the speech command during user operation, and the second speech command is a speech command during user operation, and the second speech command occurs while the speech unit is making the first speech, the control unit controls the speech unit to interrupt the first speech and start the second speech. The refrigerator according to claim 1.

7. a communication unit capable of communicating with an external device; a notification unit that notifies notification information; an operation unit that accepts user operations; Furthermore, the notification unit is capable of outputting a warning sound to warn a user, The spoken command is The voice command generated by the player's own aircraft and an external device speech command input from the external device via the communication unit; a user operation utterance command that is generated based on the operation unit receiving a user operation; Including, The volume of the speech unit can be adjusted, When the volume setting of the speech unit is set to 0 and the speech command is the own device speech command, the control unit controls the notification unit to emit the warning sound; When the volume setting of the speech unit is set to 0 and the speech command is the external device speech command, the control unit controls the speech unit not to speak, The refrigerator according to claim 1 , wherein when the volume of the speech unit is set to 0 and the speech command is the user-operated speech command, the control unit controls the speech unit to speak.

Images