Sound systems, vehicles, and control modules

Abstract

This technology provides a way to implement appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions of a taxi. [Solution] A sound system relating to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a taxi meter, a speaker, and a control module. The taxi meter includes an operating unit for switching the settings of the taxi's operating state. The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the operating state set by the taxi meter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an audio system, a vehicle, and a control module.

Background Art

[0002] When using a vehicle, sounds for various purposes are output in various scenarios. A typical example of the output sound is an alarm sound to prompt wearing a seatbelt. For example, in Patent Document 1, when it is detected that the seatbelt is not worn, the load applied to the seat surface of the seat is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, and the temperature of a specific part of the seat is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, an alarm device that executes an alarm operation for the fact that the seatbelt is not worn is proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The sound output, including the sound prompting passengers to fasten their seatbelts, can also be used in taxis. However, the inventors of this invention have found that using conventional sound output in taxis presents the following problems. For example, outputting a sound prompting passengers to fasten their seatbelts while they are paying their fare may be pointless, as the vehicle (taxi) is already stopped and the passengers are about to get out of the vehicle. Also, for example, outputting a loud sound while a taxi fare is being paid may interfere with conversation between the driver and the passenger. As these examples show, depending on the operating conditions of the taxi, it may be inappropriate to output sound as usual. It should be noted that this problem is not limited to situations where a sound prompting passengers to fasten their seatbelts is output. For example, interfering with conversation during fare payment can occur with any sound other than the seatbelt prompt. Therefore, similar problems may occur when outputting any sound other than the seatbelt prompt.

[0005] This disclosure is made, in part, in consideration of these circumstances, and its purpose is to provide technology for implementing appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions of a taxi. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This disclosure adopts the following configuration to solve the aforementioned problems. Note that the following configurations can be combined as appropriate.

[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure of a sound system comprises a taxi meter, a speaker, and a control module. The taxi meter includes an operating unit for switching the settings of the taxi's operating state. The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the operating state set by the taxi meter. With this configuration, the degree to which sound is output can be controlled according to the operating state of the taxi. This makes it possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating state of the taxi.

[0008] The sound system relating to the above aspect may further include a seat sensor, which is placed in the vehicle's seats and configured to detect whether or not a passenger is seated in the seat, and a seat belt sensor, which is configured to detect whether or not the passenger is wearing a seat belt. The control module controls the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the seat sensor, the detection result of the seat belt sensor, and the operating status set in the taxi meter. This configuration may be used. With this configuration, when controlling the output of a sound that encourages the wearing of a seat belt, it is possible to expect an appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions.

[0009] In the sound system relating to the above aspect, the operating state of the taxi may include the fare-carrying state and the payment state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker may include controlling the output of sound from the speaker when the operating state set in the taxi meter is the fare-carrying state, when the seat sensor detects that the passenger is seated in the seat and the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter is the payment state. In this configuration, when the passenger is not wearing a seat belt during the fare-carrying state, a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt is output, while in the payment state, unnecessary output of a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt can be suppressed.

[0010] The sound system relating to the above aspect may further include a door sensor configured to detect the opening and closing of the door leading to the seat. The control module may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the seat sensor, the detection result of the seat belt sensor, the detection result of the door sensor, and the operating state set in the taxi meter. With this configuration, when controlling the sound output in response to the opening and closing of the door, an appropriate sound output according to the operating state can be expected.

[0011] In the sound system relating to the above aspect, the operating state of the taxi may include the empty state and the running state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker may include controlling the speaker to output sound when the door sensor detects that the door is open and the operating state set in the taxi meter is empty; controlling the speaker to output sound when the door sensor detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor detects that the passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter is running; and controlling the speaker to suppress the output of sound when the door sensor detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor detects that the passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter is running. With this configuration, it is possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating state when a passenger gets into the vehicle and when a sound is output to encourage the passenger to wear a seat belt.

[0012] In the sound system relating to the above aspect, the seats may be seats other than the driver's seat. With this configuration, when outputting sound to passengers, it is possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions.

[0013] The sound system relating to the above aspect may further include a door sensor configured to detect the opening and closing of the door leading to the seat. The control module may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the door sensor and the operating state set in the taxi meter. With this configuration, when controlling the sound output in response to the opening and closing of the door, an appropriate sound output according to the operating state can be expected.

[0014] In the sound system relating to the above aspect, the operating status of the taxi may include the empty state and the payment state. The degree to which sound is output from the speaker is controlled so that when the door sensor detects that the door is open and the operating status set in the taxi meter is empty, sound is output from the speaker, and when the door sensor detects that the door is open The system may include a control mechanism to suppress the output of sound from the speaker when it is detected that the passenger is present and the operating status set on the taxi meter is in the payment state. With this configuration, sound can be output when the door is opened and a passenger is boarded, while unnecessary sound output can be suppressed when the payment state is active.

[0015] In the sound system relating to the above aspect, controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker may include controlling the output of sound from the speaker to suppress it when the door sensor detects that the door is closed and the operating status set in the taxi meter is empty. With this configuration, when the vehicle has its doors closed and is empty, unnecessary sound output can be suppressed.

[0016] The sound system relating to the above aspect may further include an external interface for connecting to an external memory for storing sound data. With this configuration, the output sound can be changed by replacing the sound data stored in the external memory or by replacing the external memory itself.

[0017] The sound system relating to the above aspect may further include a seat belt sensor configured to detect whether or not a passenger is wearing a seat belt in the vehicle's seat. The control module may be connected to the vehicle's speed sensor. The control module may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the seat belt sensor, the measurement result of the speed sensor, and the operating state set in the taxi meter. With this configuration, when controlling the output of a sound that encourages the wearing of a seat belt, it is possible to expect an appropriate sound output according to the operating state.

[0018] In the sound system relating to the above aspect, the operating state of the taxi may include both the vacant state and the fare-carrying state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker may include controlling the speaker to output sound when the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor exceeds a threshold, and the operating state set in the taxi meter is the fare-carrying state, and controlling the speaker to suppress the output of sound when the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor exceeds a threshold, and the operating state set in the taxi meter is the vacant state. With this configuration, when the passenger is not wearing a seat belt during the fare-carrying state, a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt is output, while in the vacant state, unnecessary output of a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt can be suppressed.

[0019] The form of this disclosure is not limited to the sound system described above. One aspect of this disclosure may be a vehicle equipped with a sound system relating to at least one of the above aspects. Another aspect of this disclosure may be a control module constituting a sound system relating to at least one of the above aspects. Another aspect of this disclosure may be an information processing method executed by the control module of a sound system relating to at least one of the above aspects. If the control module is composed of a computer, one aspect of this disclosure may be a program that causes the control module to execute the information processing method. Another aspect of this disclosure may be a machine-readable storage medium that stores such a program. A machine-readable storage medium may be a non-temporary medium that stores information such as programs by electrical, magnetic, optical, mechanical, or chemical action. A non-temporary storage medium may include storage media (CDs, DVDs, semiconductor memory, etc.), auxiliary storage devices of a computer, external storage devices connected to a computer, etc.

[0020] For example, a vehicle according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include an audio system. The audio system may include a taximeter, a speaker, and a control module. The taximeter may include an operation unit for switching the setting of the operating state of the taxi. The control module may be configured to control the degree of sound output from the speaker according to the operating state set by the taximeter.

[0021] Also, for example, a control module according to one aspect of the present disclosure may be connected to a taximeter and a speaker. The taximeter may include an operation unit for switching the setting of the operating state of the taxi. The control module may be configured to control the degree of sound output from the speaker according to the operating state set by the taximeter.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a technique for implementing appropriate sound output according to the operating state of a taxi.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 schematically shows an example of the vehicle and the audio system of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows an example of the processing procedure of the control module of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows an example of the correspondence between the operating state of the taxi of the present disclosure and the control of sound output. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 schematically shows another example of the audio system of the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments relating to one aspect of this disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiments described below are merely illustrative in all respects of this disclosure. Various improvements or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In implementing this disclosure, specific configurations may be adopted as appropriate depending on the embodiment. In this embodiment, the data appearing is described in natural language, but more specifically, it is specified in pseudo-language, commands, parameters, machine code, electrical signals, etc., that can be recognized by machines such as computers.

[0025] §1 Example Configuration Figure 1 schematically shows an example of a vehicle V0 and sound system 1 according to this embodiment. Vehicle V0 is used as a taxi. Vehicle V0 is equipped with a sound system 1. The sound system 1 includes a taxi meter 10, a speaker 20, and a control module 30. The taxi meter 10 includes an operating unit 100 for switching the settings of the taxi's operating state. The control module 30 is connected directly or indirectly to the taxi meter 10 and the speaker 20. Indirect connection means connection via another device such as another computer. The control module 30 is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. According to this embodiment, the degree to which sound is output can be controlled according to the operating state of the taxi. This makes it possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating state of the taxi.

[0026] (Taxi meter) The configuration of the taxi meter 10 is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately determined depending on the embodiment, as long as it has an interface that can be connected to the control module 30. In one example, a commercially available taxi meter may be used for the taxi meter 10. The type of operation unit 100 is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment, as long as it can perform operations to change the set value of the operating state. In one example, the operation unit 100 may be made up of physical switches. In another example, if the taxi meter 10 is equipped with a touch panel display, the operation unit 100 may be made up of software switches.

[0027] (Control module) The configuration of the control module 30 is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment, as long as the volume of speaker 20 can be controlled according to the operating status of the taxi. In one example, the control module 30 may be composed of any controller. In another example, the control module 30 may be composed of a computer equipped with a processor, such as a microcomputer, an in-vehicle terminal, or a user terminal. The user terminal may be, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC (Personal Computer), or a dedicated terminal. Examples of such components include microprocessors, CPUs (Central Processing Units), and FPGAs. (field-programmable gate array), DSP (digital signal processor), ASIC It may be composed of (application-specific integrated circuit), etc.

[0028] In one example, speaker 20 may be a speaker installed in the vehicle V0 (a speaker that is part of the vehicle V0's equipment), or it may be a specially prepared external speaker. Speaker 20 may be located inside the control module 30. The method by which the control module 30 controls the volume of speaker 20 may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. In one example, the control module 30 may be connected to speaker 20 via a volume switch 21. In this way, the control module 30 may be configured to control the volume of speaker 20 using the volume switch 21. In another example, the control module 30 may be configured to control the volume of speaker 20 using software.

[0029] (vehicle) The type of vehicle V0 is not particularly limited as long as it can be used as a taxi, and may be selected according to the embodiment. In the example in Figure 1, the seats of vehicle V0 are arranged in two rows. Vehicle V0 has a driver's seat 91 and a passenger seat 92 at the front. Vehicle V0 has three rear seats 93 (rear seats) at the rear. Vehicle V0 has a front first door 95 leading to the driver's seat 91, a front second door 96 leading to the passenger seat 92, and a pair of rear doors 97 leading to the rear seats 93. Normally, the driver enters vehicle V0 through the front first door 95 and uses the driver's seat 91.

[0030] Passengers may use at least one of the front passenger seat 92 and the rear seats 93. Passengers may enter the vehicle V0 through the front second door 96 and use the front passenger seat 92. Passengers may also enter the vehicle V0 through either of the rear doors 97 and use the rear seats 93. When multiple passengers are using the vehicle, each passenger may appropriately select a seat from the front passenger seat 92 and the rear seats 93. The driver and passengers are examples of occupants in the vehicle V0.

[0031] The configuration of vehicle V0 is not limited to this example and may be modified as appropriate depending on the embodiment. In another example, the seats of vehicle V0 may consist of three or more rows. In this case, the seats from the second row onward may be considered as rear seats 93 used by passengers. Vehicle V0 may be equipped with other output devices that output sound separately from sound system 1. These other output devices may output sound independently of sound system 1 (i.e., their sound output is not controlled by the control module 30).

[0032] (sound) The sounds to be controlled may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. For example, the sounds to be controlled may include sounds that are output when predetermined conditions are met, such as opening a door or not fastening a seat belt. The sounds to be controlled may also include sounds that are output when the passenger operates a radio, storage medium, player, etc. The storage medium may include, for example, a CD (compact disc) or semiconductor memory.

[0033] The type of sound is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. For example, the sound may be arbitrarily selected from simple sounds (such as beeps), music, voices, etc. The method is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. For example, sound may be stored as data, or it may be generated each time by a generator such as an electronic circuit.

[0034] When sound is stored as data, the sound data may be stored in any memory area. For example, the sound data may be stored in an external memory 60. The type of external memory 60 may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. The external memory 60 may be, for example, a semiconductor memory. The sound system 1 may further include an external interface 305 for connecting to the external memory 60 that stores the sound data. The external interface 305 may be provided inside or outside the control module 30. If it is provided outside the control module 30, the external interface 305 may be appropriately connected directly or indirectly to the control module 30. The external interface 305 is configured to accept a physical connection to the external memory 60 and connect the control module 30 and the external memory 60. The type of external interface 305 may be appropriately selected depending on the type of external memory 60. The external interface 305 may be configured to connect to the external memory 60 by wire or wireless connection, for example, by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, a dedicated port, etc. According to one example of this embodiment, the output sound can be changed by replacing the sound data stored in the external memory 60 or by replacing the external memory 60.

[0035] In another example, the sound system 1 may include a memory 35. Sound data may be stored in the memory 35. The memory 35 may be located inside or outside the control module 30. If located outside the control module 30, the memory 35 may be connected directly or indirectly to the control module 30 as appropriate. The type of memory 35 is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. The memory 35 may consist of, for example, RAM, ROM, semiconductor memory, etc. If the control module 30 is configured by a computer, the memory 35 may consist of an auxiliary storage device.

[0036] (Operating status) The operating status of a taxi may be defined as appropriate depending on the embodiment. For example, the operating status may include empty, running, surcharged, out of service, picking up, reserved, chartered, payment status, or a combination thereof. During business hours, the taxi (vehicle V0) is available to accept passengers. The empty status is the state in which the taxi is not carrying passengers during business hours. The running status is the state in which the taxi is carrying passengers during business hours. The running status may also be called the occupied status. The surcharged status is the state in which the taxi is carrying passengers during hours in which a surcharge system applies (e.g., late at night). The surcharged status may be included in the running status. The out of service status is the state in which the taxi is out of service and unable to accept passengers. The picking up status is the state in which the taxi is in business hours and heading towards a location where passengers (excluding reserved passengers) are waiting. The reserved status is the state in which the meter is running and the taxi is waiting for a reserved passenger. The chartered status is the state in which the taxi is chartered by a passenger. The payment status is the state in which the taxi has arrived at its destination, the vehicle is stopped, and the passenger is paying. When a taxi can be in multiple operating states, all operating states may be subject to control over the degree of sound output (volume, etc.), or some of the operating states may be selected to be subject to control over the degree of sound output (volume, etc.). Vehicle V0 may be equipped with a display device, and the operating state may be displayed on the display device.

[0037] (Correspondence between operating status and sound output control) The relationship between the operating state and the control of sound output may be appropriately determined according to the embodiment, such as the purpose of the sound output. In one example, the operating state may include the fare-taking state and the payment state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the operating state (operating state setting value) set in the taxi meter 10 is the fare-taking state, and controlling the speaker 20 to suppress sound output when the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the payment state. According to one example of this embodiment, it is possible to suppress the output of unnecessary sound during payment.

[0038] Furthermore, in one example, as described above, the sound to be controlled may include sounds that are output when certain conditions are met. Accordingly, the sound system 1 may be further equipped with sensors for measuring whether the predetermined conditions are met. The sensors may be connected directly or indirectly to the control module 30 as appropriate. The control module 30 may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the measurement results of the sensors and the operating status set in the taxi meter 10.

[0039] The type of sensor is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the conditions and purpose for outputting sound. The sensors may include at least one of the on-board sensors installed in the vehicle V0 and sensors other than on-board sensors. In one example, the sound system 1 may further include at least one of the seat occupancy sensor 40, seat belt sensor 45, and door sensor 50. The seat occupancy sensor 40 and seat belt sensor 45 may be used to output a sound prompting the occupant to fasten their seat belt when they are not wearing one. The door sensor 50 may be used to output a sound in response to the opening and closing of the door.

[0040] The seating sensor 40 is placed on the seat of the vehicle V0. The seating sensor 40 may be connected directly or indirectly to the control module 30 as appropriate. The seating sensor 40 is configured to detect whether or not a passenger is seated in the seat. The type of seating sensor 40 may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. In one example, the seating sensor 40 may include a weight-measuring sensor such as a pressure sensor or a tactile sensor. Thus, the seating sensor 40 may be configured to detect whether or not a passenger is seated in response to the change in weight of the seat due to seating. As long as seating can be detected, the shape and arrangement of the weight-measuring sensor are not particularly limited and may be appropriately determined depending on the embodiment. In another example, the seating sensor 40 may include an imaging device arranged to image the seat. Thus, the seating sensor 40 may be configured to detect whether or not a passenger is seated by analyzing the image obtained by the imaging device.

[0041] The seat belt sensor 45 is installed in the seat of the vehicle V0. The seat belt sensor 45 may be connected directly or indirectly to the control module 30 as appropriate. The seat belt sensor 45 is configured to detect whether or not a passenger is wearing the seat belt on the seat. The type of seat belt sensor 45 may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. In one example, the seat belt sensor 45 may include a sensor that detects fastening and unfastening of the seat belt, such as a switch-type sensor. In this way, the seat belt sensor 45 may be configured to detect whether or not a passenger is wearing the seat belt depending on whether or not the seat belt is fastened or unfastened. In another example, the seat belt sensor 45 may include an imaging device arranged to image the seat. In this way, the seat belt sensor 45 may be configured to detect whether or not a passenger is wearing the seat belt by analyzing the image obtained by the imaging device. When imaging devices are used for the seating sensor 40 and the seat belt sensor 45, separate imaging devices may be provided for the seating sensor 40 and the seat belt sensor 45, or one imaging device may operate as both the seating sensor 40 and the seat belt sensor 45.

[0042] The door sensor 50 is positioned on the door leading to the seat. The door sensor 50 may be connected directly or indirectly to the control module 30 as appropriate. The door sensor 50 is configured to detect the opening and closing of the door. The type of door may be arbitrarily selected. The door may be, for example, a swing door, a sliding door, etc. The type of door sensor 50 is not particularly limited as long as it can detect the opening and closing of the door, and may be appropriately selected depending on the embodiment. In one example, the door sensor 50 may include a courtesy switch, a magnetic switch, an optical sensor, a pressure sensor, etc.

[0043] The seat that detects whether a seat belt is being worn may be the same as, or different from, the seat that emits sound in response to the opening and closing of a door. In other words, the seat on which the seat occupancy sensor 40 and the seat belt sensor 45 are located may be the same as, or different from, the seat accessible from the door on which the door sensor 50 is located. The seat may be at least one of the driver's seat 91, the passenger seat 92, and the rear seat 93. The door on which the door sensor 50 is located may be at least one of the front first door 95, the front second door 96, and the rear door 97.

[0044] In one example, the seat may be any seat other than the driver's seat 91. The passenger seat 92 and the rear seat 93 are examples of seats other than the driver's seat. In this case, a passenger is an example of an occupant. The seat occupancy sensor 40 and the seat belt sensor 45 may be installed on at least one of the passenger seat 92 and the rear seat 93. The door sensor 50 may be installed on at least one of the front second door 96 and the rear door 97. According to one example of this embodiment, in situations where sound is output towards the passenger, it is possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions. In another example, the seat may be the driver's seat 91. In this case, the driver is an example of an occupant. The seat occupancy sensor 40 and the seat belt sensor 45 may be installed on the driver's seat 91. The door sensor 50 may be installed on the front first door 95. According to one example of this embodiment, in situations where sound is output towards the driver, it is possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions.

[0045] The relationship between sensor measurement results, operating status, and sound output control may be appropriately determined according to the embodiment, such as the purpose of the output sound. Below, we will explain an example of sound output control in each of three cases.

[0046] (1) Case equipped with a seat sensor and a seat belt sensor In one example, the sound system 1 may include a seating sensor 40 and a seat belt sensor 45. In this case, the control module 30 may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the detection result of the seating sensor 40, the detection result of the seat belt sensor 45, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. According to this example, when controlling the output of a sound to encourage the wearing of a seat belt, it is possible to expect an appropriate sound output according to the operating state. The sound to encourage the wearing of a seat belt may be arbitrarily selected from simple sounds, music, voices, etc.

[0047] The correspondence between the detection result of the seating sensor 40, the detection result of the seat belt sensor 45, the operating state, and the control of sound output may be appropriately determined according to the embodiment. In one example, the operating state of the taxi may include the fare-running state and the payment state. The fare-running state may include the surcharge state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the seating sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the fare-running state. Alternatively, controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to suppress sound output when the seating sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the payment state. According to one example of this embodiment, when a passenger is not wearing a seat belt while the vehicle is in a rental state, a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt is output, while when the vehicle is in a payment state, the unnecessary output of a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt can be suppressed.

[0048] In one example, the target seat may be a seat other than the driver's seat 91 (passenger seat 92, rear seat 93). According to this example, when a sound prompting passengers to wear their seat belts is output, it is possible to expect an appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions.

[0049] (2) Case equipped with a door sensor In one example, the sound system 1 may include a door sensor 50. In this case, the control module 30 may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the detection result of the door sensor 50 and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. According to this example embodiment, when controlling the sound output in accordance with the opening and closing of the door, an appropriate sound output according to the operating state can be expected. The sound output in accordance with the opening and closing of the door may be arbitrarily selected from simple sounds, music, voices, etc. The sound output in accordance with the opening and closing of the door may be the same as the sound prompting the wearing of the seat belt, or it may be different.

[0050] The relationship between the detection result of the door sensor 50, the operating state, and the control of sound output may be appropriately determined according to the embodiment. In one example, the operating state of the taxi may include the empty state and the payment state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the empty state. Alternatively, controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to suppress sound output when the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the payment state. According to one example of this embodiment, sound can be output when the door is opened and a passenger is boarded, while unnecessary sound output can be suppressed when the payment state is reached.

[0051] Furthermore, in one example, controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the output of sound from the speaker 20 to suppress it when the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed and the operating status set in the taxi meter 10 is empty. According to this example, when the vehicle V0 has its doors closed and is empty, unnecessary sound output can be suppressed.

[0052] In one example, the target seat may be a seat other than the driver's seat 91 (passenger seat 92, rear seat 93). According to this example, when sound is output to passengers in response to the opening and closing of the doors, it is possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions.

[0053] (3) Cases equipped with a seat sensor, seat belt sensor and door sensor In one example, the sound system 1 may include a seat sensor 40, a seat belt sensor 45, and a door sensor 50. In this case, the control module 30 may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the detection result of the seat sensor 40, the detection result of the seat belt sensor 45, the detection result of the door sensor 50, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. According to this example, when controlling the sound output in accordance with the wearing of a seat belt and the opening and closing of a door, an appropriate sound output according to the operating state can be expected.

[0054] The relationship between the detection result of the seat sensor 40, the detection result of the seat belt sensor 45, the detection result of the door sensor 50, the operating state, and the control of sound output may be appropriately determined according to the embodiment. For example, the operating state of the taxi may include an empty state and a fare-driven state. The fare-driven state may include a surcharge state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is an empty state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is a fare-driven state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed If it is detected that the passenger is seated, the seating sensor 40 detects that the passenger is seated, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the fare-carrying state, the system may include control to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20. According to one example of this embodiment, appropriate sound output according to the operating state can be expected when the passenger gets into the vehicle V0 and when a sound is output to encourage the passenger to wear a seat belt.

[0055] In one example, the target seat may be a seat other than the driver's seat 91 (passenger seat 92, rear seat 93). According to this example, when sound is output to passengers in response to the fastening of seat belts and the opening and closing of doors, it is possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the operating conditions.

[0056] (Sound output) In one example, outputting sound may be configured by outputting sound at a first volume level. The first volume level may be set arbitrarily. In a typical example, the sound system 1 is equipped with a volume control that defines the volume, and the first volume level may be set by the rider operating the volume control. On the other hand, suppressing the output of sound may be configured by outputting sound at a second volume level that is lower than the first volume level. The second volume level is not particularly limited as long as it is lower than the first volume level, and may be determined appropriately depending on the embodiment. The second volume level may even be 0. In this case, controlling the degree to which sound is output may be configured by controlling whether or not sound is output. That is, suppressing sound output may be configured by lowering the volume level or stopping sound output.

[0057] §2 Example of Operation Figure 2 shows an example of the processing procedure of the control module 30 according to this embodiment. The following processing procedure is an example of a control method executed by the control module. However, the following processing procedure is merely an example, and each step may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, steps in the following processing procedure can be omitted, replaced, and added as appropriate.

[0058] In step S101, the control module 30 acquires information (set value) indicating the operating status set in the taxi meter 10. The control module 30 may acquire the operating status set value from the taxi meter 10 as appropriate. For example, if a sensor is used to control the sound output, the control module 30 may further acquire information indicating the measurement result from the sensor. The control module 30 may acquire the measurement result directly or indirectly from the sensor. Acquiring indirectly means acquiring it through another device such as another computer. After acquiring the various information, the control module 30 proceeds to the next step S102.

[0059] In step S102, the control module 30 controls the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. For example, if a sensor is used to control the sound output, the control module 30 may control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the measurement results of the sensor and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. The sensor may include at least one of the seat sensor 40, seat belt sensor 45, and door sensor 50.

[0060] Figure 3 shows an example of the correspondence between the operating state of a taxi and the control of sound output according to this embodiment. In the example in Figure 3, the sound system 1 is equipped with a seat sensor 40, a seat belt sensor 45, and a door sensor 50, and the target seat is a seat other than the driver's seat 91 (passenger seat 92, rear seat 93). Furthermore, the example in Figure 3 assumes a scenario in which the correspondence between the operating state of the taxi and the control of sound output is defined for each of three scenes: when a passenger is picked up (boarding), when the taxi is driven with a passenger (driving), and when the taxi arrives at the destination and the passenger is dropped off (dropping off).

[0061] For example, when a passenger boards the taxi, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is empty, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20.

[0062] If the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is a fare-based state, the control module 30 may be controlled to output a sound from the speaker 20. The sound may be output for the purpose of encouraging the passenger to wear a seat belt. The fare-based state may include a surcharge state. The same applies below.

[0063] Furthermore, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that a passenger is wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set in the taxi meter 10 is in a fare-driven state, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20.

[0064] For example, if, while driving, the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that a passenger is wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set on the taxi meter 10 is the fare-driven state, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20.

[0065] Furthermore, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in a seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that a passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set in the taxi meter 10 is in a fare-driven state, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20.

[0066] For example, when a passenger is alighting, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that the passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is in the fare-driven state, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20.

[0067] If the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that a passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is payment status, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20.

[0068] Furthermore, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open, and the operating status set in the taxi meter 10 is in the payment state, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20.

[0069] For example, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is empty, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20.

[0070] The correspondence between operating status and sound output control is not limited to these examples and may be modified as appropriate depending on the embodiment. The operating status to be controlled is not limited to empty status, fare status (including surcharge status), and payment status; sound output control may also be defined for other operating statuses such as deadheading status. Furthermore, for combinations of detection results from each sensor (40, 45, 50) and operating status where sound output control is not defined in Figure 3, it may be appropriately selected whether to output or suppress sound.

[0071] For example, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that a passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is empty, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20.

[0072] For example, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that a passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that a passenger is wearing a seat belt, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is empty, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20.

[0073] For example, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is at least one of the following: pickup, reservation, charter, or out of service, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20.

[0074] For example, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, and the operating status set on the taxi meter 10 is at least one of the following: on-call, reserved, chartered, or out of service, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20. At least one of the on-call, reserved, chartered, or out of service states may be treated the same as the empty state.

[0075] Once control of the sound output is complete, the control module 30 terminates the processing procedure related to this example of operation. The control module 30 may repeatedly execute the processes of steps S101 to S102 at any time. Alternatively, the control module 30 may execute the operation of step S102 in accordance with the information acquired from time to time by step S101.

[0076] According to this embodiment, the operation in step S102 allows control over the level of sound output according to the taxi's operating status. This makes it possible to expect appropriate sound output according to the taxi's operating status.

[0077] §3 Variant Example While embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above, the above description is merely illustrative in all respects. The processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. Furthermore, various improvements or modifications may be made to the above embodiments as appropriate. For example, the following modifications are possible. In the following, the same reference numerals are used for components similar to those in the above embodiments, and explanations of points similar to those in the above embodiments have been omitted as appropriate. The following modifications can be combined as appropriate.

[0078] <3.1> In the above embodiment, at least one of the external memory 60 and the external interface 305 The part about the method may be omitted. The sound system 1 may further include a generator (electronic circuit, etc.) configured to produce sound.

[0079] <3.2> Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the sound system 1 may further include a switch for switching the control of sound output. The switch may be provided inside the control module 30 or outside the control module 30. For example, the switch may be provided between the control module 30 and the taxi meter 10, and may be directly or indirectly connected to the control module 30 as appropriate. The switch may appropriately switch the control of sound output. In one example, when alighting, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor 40 detects that the passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the payment state, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20 in response to the operation of the switch. In another example, when alighting, if the door sensor 50 detects that the door is open, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the payment state, the control module 30 may be controlled to output sound from the speaker 20 in response to the operation of the switch.

[0080] <3.3> Furthermore, the sensors used in the above embodiment may be changed as desired. At least one of the seat occupancy sensor 40, seat belt sensor 45, and door sensor 50 may be omitted. The sound system 1 may further include other sensors besides the seat occupancy sensor 40, seat belt sensor 45, and door sensor 50. At least one of the seat occupancy sensor 40, seat belt sensor 45, and door sensor 50 may be replaced with other sensors. For example, other sensors such as a temperature sensor may be used to detect whether or not a seat belt is fastened. Also, other sensors such as a vehicle speed sensor may be used to control the sound that prompts the wearing of a seat belt.

[0081] Figure 4 schematically shows an example of another form of the sound system 1A. In the sound system 1A, the seating sensor 40 is omitted. Also, in the sound system 1A, the control module 30 may be directly or indirectly connected to the vehicle's speed sensor 70. The control module 30 may be configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 according to the detection result of the seat belt sensor 45, the measurement result of the vehicle speed sensor 70, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10. According to this modified example, when controlling the output of a sound that encourages the wearing of a seat belt, it is possible to expect an appropriate sound output according to the operating state. Except for these points, the sound system 1A may be configured in the same way as the sound system 1 according to the above embodiment.

[0082] The relationship between the detection result of the seat belt sensor 45, the measurement result of the vehicle speed sensor 70, the operating state, and the control of sound output may be appropriately determined according to the embodiment. In one example, the operating state of the taxi may include the empty state and the fare-carrying state. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to output sound when the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor 70 exceeds a threshold, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the fare-carrying state. Alternatively, controlling the degree to which sound is output from the speaker 20 may include controlling the speaker 20 to suppress sound output when the seat belt sensor 45 detects that the passenger is not wearing a seat belt, the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor 70 exceeds a threshold, and the operating state set in the taxi meter 10 is the empty state. According to this modified example, when the vehicle is running in the fare-carrying state, a sound prompting the passenger to wear a seat belt can be output in response to the passenger not wearing a seat belt. On the other hand, when the vehicle is empty This can suppress the unnecessary output of sounds encouraging passengers to wear seat belts. For example, the passengers may be empty. In this case, when there are no passengers because the vehicle is empty, it can suppress the unnecessary output of sounds encouraging passengers to wear seat belts.

[0083] Furthermore, if the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor 70 is below a threshold, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20. Similarly, if the seat belt sensor 45 detects that an occupant is wearing a seat belt, the control module 30 may be controlled to suppress the output of sound from the speaker 20. In addition, the case where the vehicle speed is equal to the threshold may be handled in the same way as the case where the vehicle speed exceeds the threshold or the case where the vehicle speed is below the threshold. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0084] 1…Sound system, 10... Taxi meter, 100... Control unit, 20...Speaker, 21...Volume switch, 30...Control module, 305...External interface, 35...memory, 60...external memory, 40...Seat occupancy sensor, 45...Seat belt sensor, 50...Door sensor, V0...Vehicle

Claims

1. Taxi meter, Speakers, and Control module, Equipped with, The aforementioned taxi meter is equipped with an operating unit for switching the settings of the taxi's operating status, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the operating state set on the taxi meter. Sound system.

2. A seat sensor, which is placed in the seat of a vehicle and configured to detect whether or not a passenger is seated in the seat, and A seat belt sensor configured to detect whether or not the passenger is wearing the seat belt of the aforementioned seat, Furthermore, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the seat occupancy sensor, the detection result of the seat belt sensor, and the operating state set in the taxi meter. The sound system according to claim 1.

3. The operating status of the aforementioned taxi includes the fare status and the payment status. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the aforementioned speaker is, If the seating sensor detects that the passenger is seated in the seat, and the seatbelt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing the seatbelt, When the operating state set in the taxi meter is the fare-charging state, the system controls the speaker to output sound. When the operating state set in the taxi meter is the payment state, the system controls the output of sound from the speaker to be suppressed. Including, The sound system according to claim 2.

4. The system further includes a door sensor configured to detect the opening and closing of a door leading to the aforementioned seat, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the seat occupancy sensor, the detection result of the seat belt sensor, the detection result of the door sensor, and the operating state set in the taxi meter. The sound system according to claim 2.

5. The operating status of the aforementioned taxi includes both the vacant state and the state in which it is being used for fares. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the aforementioned speaker is, When the door sensor detects that the door is open, and the operating status set on the taxi meter is the vacant state, the system controls the speaker to output sound. When the door sensor detects that the door is closed, the seat sensor detects that the passenger is seated in the seat, the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing the seat belt, and the operating state set on the taxi meter is the fare-carrying state, the system controls the speaker to output sound. The door sensor detects that the door is closed, and the seat sensor Furthermore, if it is detected that the passenger is seated in the seat, the seatbelt sensor detects that the passenger is wearing the seatbelt, and the operating state set on the taxi meter is the fare-carrying state, the system controls the output of sound from the speaker to be suppressed. Including, The sound system according to claim 4.

6. The aforementioned seat is a seat other than the driver's seat. The sound system according to claim 2.

7. It further includes a door sensor configured to detect the opening and closing of the door leading to the seat, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the door sensor and the operating state set on the taxi meter. The sound system according to claim 1.

8. The operating status of the aforementioned taxi includes the status of being vacant and the status of payment. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the aforementioned speaker is, When the door sensor detects that the door is open, and the operating status set on the taxi meter is the vacant state, the system controls the speaker to output sound. When the door sensor detects that the door is open, and the operating status set on the taxi meter is the payment status, the system controls the speaker to suppress the output of sound. Including, The sound system according to claim 7.

9. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the aforementioned speaker is, When the door sensor detects that the door is closed, and the operating status set on the taxi meter is the vacant state, the system controls the speaker to suppress the output of sound. Including, The sound system according to claim 8.

10. The system further includes an external interface for connecting to an external memory that stores the aforementioned sound data. The sound system according to claim 1.

11. The system further includes a seat belt sensor configured to detect whether or not a passenger is wearing a seat belt in the vehicle's seat, The control module is connected to the vehicle's speed sensor, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the detection result of the seat belt sensor, the measurement result of the vehicle speed sensor, and the operating state set in the taxi meter. The sound system according to claim 1.

12. The operating status of the aforementioned taxi includes both the vacant state and the state in which it is being used for fares. Controlling the degree to which sound is output from the aforementioned speaker is, The seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing the seat belt, and the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor exceeds a threshold, When the operating state set in the taxi meter is the fare-charging state, the system controls the speaker to output sound. When the seat belt sensor detects that the passenger is not wearing the seat belt, the vehicle speed measured by the vehicle speed sensor exceeds a threshold, and the operating status set in the taxi meter is the empty state, the system controls the output of sound from the speaker to be suppressed. Including, The sound system according to claim 11.

13. A vehicle equipped with a sound system, The sound system comprises a taxi meter, a speaker, and a control module. The aforementioned taxi meter is equipped with an operating unit for switching the settings of the taxi's operating status, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the operating state set on the taxi meter. vehicle.

14. A control module connected to a taxi meter and speaker, The aforementioned taxi meter is equipped with an operating unit for switching the settings of the taxi's operating status, The control module is configured to control the degree to which sound is output from the speaker according to the operating state set on the taxi meter. Control module.

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