Sensor module for electronic wind instruments, electronic wind instrument, and method for detecting exhaled breath

Abstract

To provide a sensor module for electronic wind instruments that can accurately detect exhaled breath, an electronic wind instrument, and a method for detecting exhaled breath. [Solution] Since the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 356a of the branch channel 356 formed in the case-side channel 355 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the case-side channel 355 at the connection point with the branch channel 356, it becomes difficult for humid exhaled air to flow into the branch channel 356. As a result, moisture generated by condensation and the like is prevented from adhering to the temperature sensor 360, and changes in airflow in the branch channel 356 can be accurately detected by the temperature sensor 360. Therefore, the flow rate (flow velocity) of exhaled air flowing in the case-side channel 355 can be accurately detected.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sensor module for an electronic wind instrument, an electronic wind instrument, and a method for detecting exhalation, and particularly to a sensor module for an electronic wind instrument, an electronic wind instrument, and a method for detecting exhalation that can accurately detect exhalation.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes an electronic wind instrument in which an area partitioning member E is incorporated inside a pipe body P having a mouthpiece 1. In the area partitioning member E, a first breath introduction area 4 and a second breath introduction area 5 extending in both axial directions of the pipe body P from the mouthpiece 1 are formed, and pressure sensors 8 and 9 for detecting exhalation blown into the mouthpiece 1 are provided in these first and second breath introduction areas 4 and 5.

[0003] Since the pressure sensors 8 and 9 are provided at the axial end portions of the first and second breath introduction areas 4 and 5, it is possible to suppress the direct blowing of the player's exhalation onto the pressure sensors 8 and 9. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the adhesion of saliva contained in the exhalation to the pressure sensors 8 and 9, and thus it is possible to suppress a decrease in the detection accuracy of exhalation by the pressure sensors 8 and 9.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, since the performer's exhaled breath contains not only saliva but also moisture, even with the conventional technology described above, if the moisture-containing exhaled breath flows towards the pressure sensors 8 and 9, moisture caused by condensation may adhere to the pressure sensors 8 and 9. Therefore, there was a problem in that the accuracy of exhaled breath detection by the pressure sensors 8 and 9 could not be sufficiently improved.

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a sensor module for an electronic wind instrument, an electronic wind instrument, and a method for detecting exhaled breath that can improve the accuracy of exhaled breath detection. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve this objective, the sensor module for an electronic wind instrument of the present invention comprises a main flow path formed between an air intake port and an air exhaust port provided on the outer surface of the housing of the electronic wind instrument; a branch flow path that branches off so as to intersect with the main flow path; and a sensor provided in the branch flow path that detects changes in the airflow of the branch flow path caused by changes in the exhaled air flowing in the main flow path, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening of the branch flow path formed at the connection portion is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main flow path at the connection portion between the main flow path and the branch flow path.

[0008] The electronic wind instrument of the present invention comprises a housing with an air intake and exhaust port formed on its outer surface, and the sensor module of the present invention is provided inside the housing.

[0009] The present invention provides a method for detecting exhaled breath in an electronic wind instrument, comprising: a housing having an exhaled breath inlet and an exhaled breath outlet formed on its outer surface; a main flow path formed between the inlet and the exhaled breath outlet of the housing; a branch flow path branching off so as to intersect the main flow path; and a sensor provided in the branch flow path, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening of the branch flow path formed at the connection portion of the main flow path is made smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main flow path at the connection portion of the main flow path; and the sensor detects changes in the airflow of the branch flow path caused by changes in the exhaled breath flowing through the main flow path. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] (a) is a perspective view of the electronic wind instrument according to the first embodiment, and (b) is a partially enlarged perspective view of the electronic wind instrument showing the instrument body disassembled. [Figure 2] This is a disassembled perspective view of the air intake unit. [Figure 3] (a) is a perspective view of the lip plate seen from the inner side, and (b) is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the air intake unit. [Figure 4] Figure 3(b) is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the inlet unit along line IV-IV. [Figure 5] (a) is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the nozzle unit along the line Va-Va in Figure 4, and (b) is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the nozzle unit along the line Vb-Vb in Figure 4. [Figure 6] This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the electronic wind instrument according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The following describes preferred embodiments with reference to the attached drawings. First, the overall configuration of the electronic wind instrument 1 of the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1(a) is a perspective view of the electronic wind instrument 1 of the first embodiment, and Figure 1(b) is a partially enlarged perspective view of the electronic wind instrument 1 showing the instrument body 2 in a disassembled state. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the mouthpiece unit 3. In the following description, the direction perpendicular to the axial direction (longitudinal direction) of the electronic wind instrument 1 will be described as the radial direction, and the direction around the axis will be described as the circumferential direction.

[0012] As shown in Figure 1, the electronic wind instrument 1 is an electronic instrument that imitates an acoustic wind instrument (in this embodiment, a flute). The electronic wind instrument 1 has an instrument body 2 that imitates the main tube of a flute, and a mouthpiece unit 3 that imitates the head joint is attached to the axial end of the instrument body 2.

[0013] The instrument body 2 comprises a roughly semi-cylindrical upper housing 21 (first housing) and a lower housing 22 (second housing), with multiple keys 20 attached to the outer circumferential surface of the upper housing 21. A cylindrical projection 210 is integrally formed at the end of the upper housing 21 on the side of the mouthpiece unit 3 in the axial direction. The projection 210 protrudes from the inner circumferential surface of the upper housing 21 toward the lower housing 22, and an insertion hole 220 for passing a bolt B1 is formed in the lower housing 22 at a position corresponding to the tip of the projection 210.

[0014] An insertion hole 30 is formed at the end of the mouthpiece unit 3 on the instrument body 2 side in the axial direction for inserting the projection 210 of the upper housing 21, and a female threaded hole (not shown) is formed at the tip of the projection 210 of the upper housing 21. With the projection 210 of the upper housing 21 inserted into the insertion hole 30 of the mouthpiece unit 3, the mouthpiece unit 3 is attached to the instrument body 2 by screwing a bolt B1, which is passed through the insertion hole 220, into the projection 210.

[0015] A lip plate 31 is attached to the outer surface of the mouthpiece unit 3, and an upper mouthpiece 310 (first mouthpiece) and a lower mouthpiece 311 (second mouthpiece) are formed on the lip plate 31, arranged circumferentially. Each of these mouthpieces 310, 311 is a rectangular opening formed horizontally in the axial direction of the mouthpiece unit 3. The electronic wind instrument 1 is played by the performer operating the key 20 and switching (blowing into) the direction of exhalation into each mouthpiece 310, 311.

[0016] The internal space surrounded by the respective casings 21 and 22 of the instrument body 2 houses electronic components such as a circuit board 23. The circuit board 23 is equipped with a CPU, and the sound generation process performed by this CPU generates musical sounds based on the operation state of the keys 20 and the state (amount of air blown) of the breath into each of the mouthpieces 310 and 311.

[0017] As shown in Fig. 2, the blowing port unit 3 includes a blowing-side housing 32 (the third housing) and an exhaust-side housing 33 (the fourth housing) having a substantially semi-cylindrical shape. Each of these housings 32, 33 is a resin component including a large-diameter portion 320, 330 having a relatively large diameter and a small-diameter portion 321, 331 formed at one axial end side of the large-diameter portion 320, 330 and having a smaller diameter than the large-diameter portion 320, 330.

[0018] The large-diameter portion 320 and the small-diameter portion 321 of the blowing-side housing 32 are integrally formed, and similarly, the large-diameter portion 330 and the small-diameter portion 331 of the exhaust-side housing 33 are integrally formed. Semi-elliptical cutouts 321a, 331a are formed at both circumferential ends of the small-diameter portions 321, 331 of the respective housings 32, 33, and by overlapping the respective housings 32, 33, the above-described insertion hole 30 (see Fig. 1(b)) is formed.

[0019] An attachment hole 322 for attaching the lip plate 31 is formed in the large-diameter portion 320 of the blowing-side housing 32, and a substrate 34 is sandwiched between the bottom surface 322a of the attachment hole 322 and the lip plate 31. This substrate 34 is for heating the lip plate 31 to remove moisture, and details of the configuration regarding this heating will be described later.

[0020] A boss 332 for fixing the lip plate 3 is integrally formed on the inner peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion 330 of the exhaust-side housing 33. The boss 332 is a cylindrical protrusion rising from the inner peripheral surface of the large-diameter portion 330 toward the blowing-side housing 32 side. An insertion hole 332a for inserting a bolt B2 is formed at the center of the boss 332, and a similar insertion hole 340 is also formed in the substrate 34 (the bottom surface 322a of the attachment hole 322). By screwing the bolt B2 inserted into the insertion holes 332a, 340 of the boss 332 and the substrate 34 into the female screw hole 312 (see Fig. 3) of the lip plate 31, the lip plate 31 is fixed to the attachment hole 322 (outer peripheral surface) of the blowing-side housing 32.

[0021] On the bottom surface 322a of the mounting hole 322, a housing-side flow path 323 for passing the exhaled air blown from each of the blow-in ports 310 and 311 is formed. The housing-side flow paths 323 are formed in a pair at intervals in the axial direction of the blow-in housing 32 (the blow-in port unit 3). The exhaled air that has passed through the pair of housing-side flow paths 323 is introduced into the pair of sensor modules Sa and Sb.

[0022] The pair of sensor modules Sa and Sb are symmetrically arranged with a plane orthogonal to the axial direction of the blow-in port unit 3 (the plane including each of the blow-in ports 310 and 311) as the symmetry plane (hereinafter, the same symmetry is simply referred to as "symmetry"). The sensor module Sa detects the exhaled air blown into the upper blow-in port 310, and the sensor module Sb detects the exhaled air blown into the lower blow-in port 311. The sensor modules Sa and Sb are each the same component and include a resin case 35 and a substrate 36 attached to the case 35 by adhesion or the like.

[0023] In each case 35 of the sensor modules Sa and Sb, a cylindrical tube portion 350 through which the exhaled air blown from each of the blow-in ports 310 and 311 passes is formed, and the exhaled air that has passed through the tube portion 350 is detected by a temperature sensor 360 (see FIG. 4) provided on the substrate 36. Details of this method for detecting exhaled air will be described later.

[0024] On the inner peripheral surfaces at both axial ends of the exhaust housing 33, bosses 333 for fixing the pair of sensor modules Sa and Sb are integrally formed. The boss 333 is a cylindrical protrusion that rises toward the blow-in housing 32 side, and an insertion hole 333a for passing a bolt B3 is formed at the center of the boss 333.

[0025] Similar insertion holes 361 are also formed at the ends of the substrate 36 on the side opposite to the tube portion 350 in the axial direction, and a female screw hole 324 (see FIG. 4) is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the blow-in housing 32 at a position corresponding to the boss 333 (insertion hole 333a). By screwing the bolt B3 inserted into the insertion holes 333a and 361 of the boss 333 and the substrate 36 into the female screw hole 324 of the blow-in housing 32, the sensor modules Sa and Sb are fixed inside the blow-in port unit 3.

[0026] In this fixed state, the cylindrical portion 350 of the sensor modules Sa,Sb and the first exhaust port 334 of the exhaust-side housing 33 are in communication. The first exhaust ports 334 are provided in pairs, spaced apart in the axial direction (with a boss 332 in between), and the exhaled air blown into each inlet 310,311 is mainly discharged from these first exhaust ports 334. A pair of second exhaust ports 335 are formed on both sides of the axial direction of this pair of first exhaust ports 334. Each of these exhaust ports 334,335 is a hole that penetrates the large-diameter portion 330 of the exhaust-side housing 33, with the first exhaust ports 334 being circular in shape and the second exhaust ports 335 being rectangular in shape that is elongated in the axial direction.

[0027] Each exhaust port 334, 335 is covered by an axially extending decorative body 37 (covering member). The decorative body 37 includes a first covering portion 370 that covers the first exhaust port 334, and a through hole 370a is formed in the first covering portion 370 at a position corresponding to the first exhaust port 334. On both axial sides of the first covering portion 370, a pair of second covering portions 371 are provided to cover a pair of second exhaust ports 335, and on both axial sides of this pair of second covering portions 371, a pair of third covering portions 372 are provided.

[0028] The third covering portion 372 is the part that covers the recess 333b (see Figure 4) formed on the outer circumferential surface of the exhaust-side housing 33 by the boss 333, and a through hole 372a is formed in the third covering portion 372 at a position corresponding to the recess 333b. A pair of fixed parts 373 are provided on both axial sides of the pair of third covering portions 372, and this pair of fixed parts 373 is fixed to the outer circumferential surface of the exhaust-side housing 33 (large diameter portion 330) by bolts (not shown).

[0029] The parts 370 to 373 that make up these decorative elements 37 are integrally formed using resin material. By covering the exhaust ports 334, 335 and recesses 333b (see Figure 4) with the parts 370 to 373 of the decorative elements 37, the appearance of the electronic wind instrument 1 can be improved.

[0030] Next, with reference to Figures 2 and 3, the airflow path from each inlet 310, 311 to the pair of housing-side flow paths 323 will be described. Figure 3(a) is a perspective view of the lip plate 31 seen from the inner circumference, and Figure 3(b) is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the inlet unit 3 (electronic wind instrument 1). Figure 3(b) shows a cross-section cut by a plane that is perpendicular to the direction in which the performer blows air into the inlets 310, 311 (the radial direction of the inlet-side housing 32) and includes the partition wall 313 of the lip plate 31.

[0031] Note that Figure 3(b) is a cross-sectional view that does not include the inlets 310, 311 or the constriction walls 317a, 317b (see Figure 3(a)), but the positions where the inlets 310, 311 are formed are shown by dashed lines in Figure 3(b). Furthermore, in the following explanation, the side with the inlets 310, 311 will be referred to as the upstream side of the exhalation flow path, and the opposite side as the downstream side.

[0032] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a partition wall 313 is integrally formed on the inner circumferential surface of the lip plate 31 to demarcate the exhalation flow path. The partition wall 313 is formed in the shape of a wall rising from the inner circumferential surface of the lip plate 31, and the tip of this partition wall 313 (the end on the far side in the plane of the paper in Figure 3(b)) is configured to be in contact with the substrate 34. The space surrounded by this partition wall 313 and the substrate 34 forms the first bent flow paths 314a, 314b and the second bent flow paths 315a, 315b.

[0033] The first bent channel 314a is a channel that extends linearly from the upper inlet 310 to one axial side of the inlet housing 32 (the left side in Figure 3(b)). From the downstream end of the first bent channel 314a (the left side in Figure 3(b)), the second bent channel 315a bends vertically (in the circumferential direction of the inlet housing 32), and the downstream portion of this second bent channel 315a is connected to one of the pair of housing-side channels 323.

[0034] The first bent passage 314b is a passage that extends linearly from the lower inlet 311 to the other axial side of the inlet housing 32 (the right side in Figure 3(b)). From the downstream end of the first bent passage 314b (the right side in Figure 3(b)), the second bent passage 315b bends vertically (in the circumferential direction of the inlet housing 32 and in the same direction as the second bent passage 315a), and the downstream portion of this second bent passage 315b is connected to the other housing-side passage 323.

[0035] Furthermore, a diaphragm channel 316a (see Figure 3(a)) is formed at the boundary between the first bent channel 314a and the second bent channel 315a, and a diaphragm channel 316b is also formed at the boundary between the first bent channel 314b and the second bent channel 315b. These diaphragm channels 316a and 316b are formed by diaphragm walls 317a and 317b that connect the walls of the partition wall 313.

[0036] The constricted walls 317a and 317b are walls that extend across each of the bent channels 314a, 314b, 315a, and 315b, and the height at which the constricted walls 317a and 317b are erected from the inner circumferential surface of the lip plate 31 is lower than the height at which the partition wall 313 is erected. The formation of these constricted walls 317a and 317b results in the formation of constricted channels 316a and 316b, which have a smaller channel cross-sectional area than each of the bent channels 314a, 314b, 315a, and 315b.

[0037] As indicated by arrow A in Figure 3, exhaled air blown in from the upper inlet 310 is introduced into one of the housing-side flow paths 323 through the first bent flow path 314a, the throttling flow path 316a, and the second bent flow path 315a. On the other hand, as indicated by arrow B, exhaled air blown in from the lower inlet 311 is introduced into the other housing-side flow path 323 through the first bent flow path 314b, the throttling flow path 316b, and the second bent flow path 315b.

[0038] Next, with reference to Figures 3 and 4, the exhaled air flow path from the housing-side flow path 323 to the first exhaust port 334 will be described. Figure 4 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of the inlet unit 3 along line IV-IV in Figure 3. Note that the flow paths downstream of the housing-side flow path 323 are formed symmetrically on the sensor module Sa side and the sensor module Sb side. Therefore, in the following description, the exhaled air flow path on the sensor module Sa side (see Figure 4) will be described, and the description of the flow path on the sensor module Sb side will be omitted.

[0039] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, a cylindrical lower projection 325 (see Figure 4) is integrally formed on the inner circumferential surface of the blowing side housing 32, opposite to the bottom surface 322a of the mounting hole 322. A throttling channel 326 connected to the housing side channel 323 is formed on the inner circumferential side of the lower projection 325, and the cases 35 of the sensor modules Sa and Sb are attached to the lower projection 325.

[0040] The case 35 comprises the cylindrical portion 350 described above, a bottom wall portion 351 extending from the cylindrical portion 350 to one axial side of the inlet unit 3 (left side in Figure 4), and a side wall portion 352 and an end wall portion 353 rising from the bottom wall portion 351, with each of these portions 350 to 353 being integrally formed. On the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 350, there is a fitting hole 354 into which the lower projection 325 is fitted, and a case-side flow path 355 connected to the fitting hole 354.

[0041] The fitting hole 354 and the case-side flow path 355 are each formed with a circular cross-section. The inner diameter of the case-side flow path 355 is formed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the fitting hole 354, creating a step on the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 350, into which the lower projection 325 is fitted.

[0042] When the cylindrical portion 350 is attached to the lower projection 325, a flow path is formed that extends radially (approximately parallel to the direction in which exhaled air is blown into each of the inlet ports 310 and 311) by the housing-side flow path 323, the throttling flow path 326, and the case-side flow path 355.

[0043] The exhaled air blown into the upper inlet 310 (see Figure 3) is exhausted from the first exhaust port 334 through the aforementioned bent passages 314a, 315a (see Figure 3 for the first bent passage 314a), the housing-side passage 323, the throttling passage 326, and the case-side passage 355. Hereafter, these passages 314a, 315a, 323, 326, and 355 will be collectively referred to as the "main passage" for exhaled air.

[0044] The bottom wall portion 351 of the case 35 is formed in a flat plate shape extending in the axial direction of the blowing port unit 3, and the side wall portions 352 are formed in pairs on both ends of the bottom wall portion 351 in the width direction (perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 4) (see Figure 5(b)). The end wall portions 353 are formed in a wall shape rising from the axial end of the bottom wall portion 351 (the end opposite to the cylindrical portion 350 side), and each of these wall portions 351 to 353 is formed in a box shape with one side (the blowing side housing 32 side) open. When this open portion is closed by the substrate 36, a branched channel 356 surrounded by the substrate 36 and each of the wall portions 351 to 353 is formed inside the case 35.

[0045] The branch channel 356 is a channel that extends axially from the inlet unit 3, and in order to connect one end of it to the main channel (case-side channel 355), an opening 356a (first opening) for the branch channel 356 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the case-side channel 355. That is, the branch channel 356 branches off so as to intersect with the case-side channel 355. The other end of the branch channel 356 is connected to the outside of the case 35 through an opening 356b (second opening) formed in the end wall portion 353.

[0046] On the inner surface of the substrate 36 facing the branch channel 356, a temperature sensor 360 and a heater 362 are provided side by side in the axial direction (the longitudinal direction of the branch channel 356). The temperature sensor 360 can be a known temperature sensor composed of a thermistor or the like, and the heater 362 can be a known heat-generating element such as a chip resistor, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0047] The heater 362 heats the air in the branch channel 356, and the flow of this heated air (temperature change in the branch channel 356) is detected by the temperature sensor 360. In this embodiment, if the case-side channel 355 is the upstream side of the branch channel 356, the temperature sensor 360 is positioned upstream of the heater 362, but the temperature sensor 360 may also be positioned downstream of the heater 362. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 360 and the heater 362 may be positioned side by side in the width direction (perpendicular to the plane of the paper in Figure 4) which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (left-right direction in Figure 4) of the branch channel 356.

[0048] When the flow rate (flow velocity) of exhaled air flowing through the main channel (case-side channel 355) changes, a change also occurs in the airflow in the branch channel 356 (a secondary channel branching off from the main channel). This change in airflow in the branch channel 356 (temperature change due to the flow of air heated by the heater 362) is detected by the temperature sensor 360. A musical tone signal is generated by the sound source based on the detection result of the temperature sensor 360, and an electronic sound based on this musical tone signal is emitted from an amplifier and / or speaker (neither shown).

[0049] In order for the temperature sensor 360 to accurately detect the flow rate of exhaled air flowing through the main channel based on the changes in airflow in the branch channel 356, it is necessary to prevent saliva contained in the exhaled air and moisture caused by condensation from the exhaled air from remaining in the main channel and branch channel 356. In particular, if such moisture adheres to the temperature sensor 360, it becomes difficult to accurately detect the performer's exhaled air. A configuration that solves these problems is described below.

[0050] The case-side flow path 355 and the opening 356a of the branch flow path 356 are both formed with a circular cross-section, but the diameter of the opening 356a of the branch flow path 356 is smaller than the diameter of the case-side flow path 355. In other words, the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 356a of the branch flow path 356 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the part of the main flow path to which the opening 356a of the branch flow path 356 is connected (case-side flow path 355). This has the effect of making it difficult for humid exhaled air to flow into the temperature sensor 360 located in the branch flow path 356.

[0051] One possible reason for this is that the opening 356a of the branch channel 356 is formed to be relatively small, making it difficult for exhaled air passing through the case-side channel 355 to flow into the branch channel 356. Another possible reason is that the exhaled air passing through the case-side channel 355 creates negative pressure in the branch channel 356, and this negative pressure draws air from the branch channel 356 through the opening 356a into the case-side channel 355.

[0052] By suppressing the inflow of humid exhaled air into the branch channel 356, moisture generated by condensation or other factors can be prevented from adhering to the temperature sensor 360. Therefore, the flow rate (flow velocity) of exhaled air flowing through the main channel can be accurately detected by the temperature sensor 360 based on the changes in airflow occurring in the branch channel 356.

[0053] Furthermore, a cylindrical projection 357 is integrally formed on the inner circumferential surface of the case-side flow path 355, the tip of which becomes the opening 356a of the branch flow path 356. By causing the opening 356a of the branch flow path 356 to protrude towards the inner circumferential side of the case-side flow path 355 with this projection 357, it is thought that the effects of making it difficult for humid exhaled air to flow into the branch flow path 356 and making it easier for negative pressure to be generated in the branch flow path 356 by the exhaled air passing through the main flow path can be obtained.

[0054] Furthermore, the tip of the projection 357 (the edge of the opening 356a of the branched passage 356) is positioned on the extension of the passage of the throttling passage 326. That is, in a view of the inflow direction of exhaled air from the throttling passage 326 to the case-side passage 355 (up and down view in Figure 4), the throttling passage 326 and the tip of the projection 357 are positioned to overlap. This is also thought to have the effect of making it easier for negative pressure to be generated in the branched passage 356 by the exhaled air passing through the main passage.

[0055] Thus, this embodiment is a structure in which exhaled air flowing into the branch channel 356 from an opening 356a with a relatively small cross-sectional area is detected by a temperature sensor 360, or a structure in which negative pressure is generated in the branch channel 356 by exhaled air passing through the case-side channel 355, and the airflow in the branch channel 356 caused by this negative pressure is detected by the temperature sensor 360. In such a structure, the change in airflow in the branch channel 356 becomes relatively small. Here, if the temperature sensor 360 is configured to detect the temperature change of the air in the branch channel 356 heated by the heater 362, as in this embodiment, even slight changes in airflow in the branch channel 356 can be detected by the temperature sensor 360. Therefore, the flow rate of exhaled air flowing in the main channel can be detected with high accuracy.

[0056] Furthermore, since the sensor modules Sa and Sb are arranged axially so that their cylindrical sections 350 face each other (see Figure 2), and the branched flow path 356 is formed along the axial direction (longitudinal direction) of the inlet unit 3, a long branched flow path 356 for sensing exhaled breath can be formed. This makes it possible to bring each cylindrical section 350 close to the lip plate 31 and to mimic the appearance of a long, slender flute (head joint) with the inlet unit 3, while the temperature sensor 360 can accurately detect changes in the airflow within the branched flow path 356.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the exhaled air blown into the upper inlet 310 and the exhaled air blown into the lower inlet 311 are detected by separate sensor modules Sa and Sb (see Figure 2). That is, instead of forming two branched flow channels 356 in one case 35, the two cases 35 are made into separate parts (the cases 35 are made smaller) and the branched flow channels 356 are formed individually, so the shape of the branched flow channels 356 can be formed with high precision. Therefore, the airflow generated in the branched flow channels 356 can be detected with high precision by the temperature sensor 360.

[0058] As described above, in this embodiment, exhaled breath is detected based on the airflow generated in the branch channel 356, and a tapered surface 356c is formed in the branch channel 356 to stabilize this airflow. The tapered surface 356c is an inclined surface that is connected to one end (the end on the opening 356a side) of the inner surface of the bottom wall portion 351 or the side wall portion 352 of the case 35 (see Figure 5(b) for the point where the tapered surface 356c is connected to the side wall portion 352). By forming such a tapered surface 356c, the cross-sectional area of ​​the branch channel 356 can be made to gradually decrease toward the opening 356a side. This suppresses the generation of irregular airflow (turbulence) in the branch channel 356, so that the flow rate of exhaled breath flowing in the main channel can be accurately detected by the temperature sensor 360.

[0059] Furthermore, a vent 333c is formed on the side surface of the boss 333 facing the end wall portion 353 of the case 35, and the recess 333b formed on the outer circumferential surface of the exhaust-side housing 33 by the boss 333 and the opening 356b of the branch channel 356 are connected via the vent 333c. As a result, the inside of the branch channel 356 can be ventilated by the airflow passing through the vent 333c and the opening 356b, thereby suppressing condensation on the temperature sensor 360.

[0060] Furthermore, by using the boss 333 (recess 333b) for fixing the sensor modules Sa and Sb to ventilate the branch channel 356, it becomes unnecessary to separately provide holes or recesses in the exhaust side housing 33 for such ventilation. Therefore, the number of holes and recesses formed in the exhaust side housing 33 can be reduced, improving the appearance of the electronic wind instrument 1.

[0061] Here, for example, when the performer takes a breath during a performance, air may be drawn in through the upper mouthpiece 310 (see Figure 3). Also, for example, if the performer performs an action with their mouth away from the upper mouthpiece 310, outside air may flow in through the upper mouthpiece 310 due to the resulting movement of the electronic wind instrument 1. When the temperature sensor 360 detects such airflow due to intake or inflow of outside air, a problem arises in which unintended musical tones are generated.

[0062] Furthermore, when a performer forcefully blows air into the upper inlet 310, the airflow rate may exceed the measurable range of the temperature sensor 360. Outside this range, changing the airflow rate does not affect the generated musical tone, making it difficult to produce the musical tone intended by the performer.

[0063] In contrast, in this embodiment, as described above, the lip plate 31 has a first bent passage 314a (see Figure 3) that extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which exhaled air is blown into the upper inlet 310 (in this embodiment, in the axial direction of the inlet unit 3). Furthermore, the second bent passage 315a, which is connected downstream of the first bent passage 314a, extends in a direction that bends further from the connection point (in this embodiment, in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which exhaled air is blown and the axial direction of the inlet unit 3).

[0064] By forming such a curved flow path upstream of the main flow path, for example, compared to the case where the upper inlet 310 and the housing-side flow path 323 are connected in a straight line, it is possible to suppress the generation of airflow in the case-side flow path 355 even when the performer's inhalation or outside air flows in as described above.

[0065] Furthermore, at the boundary of each of these bent passages 314a and 315a, a constricted passage 316a (see Figure 3(a)) is formed, which has a smaller cross-sectional area than each of the bent passages 314a and 315a. In addition, a constricted passage 326 is formed between the housing-side passage 323 and the case-side passage 355, which has a smaller cross-sectional area than each of the passages 323 and 355. By providing such a constricted section, which partially reduces the cross-sectional area of ​​the main passage, in the middle of the main passage (upstream of the connection point of the branch passage 356), it is possible to suppress the generation of airflow in the case-side passage 355 due to the performer's inhalation and the inflow of outside air as described above.

[0066] By suppressing the airflow generated in the case-side passage 355 due to the performer's inhalation and the inflow of outside air, it is possible to prevent the temperature sensor 360 from falsely detecting that airflow. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the generation of musical sounds that the performer did not intend.

[0067] Furthermore, by adjusting the flow path length of each bent flow path 314a, 315a and the flow path cross-sectional area of ​​the constricted flow paths 316a, 326, it is possible to suppress the exhaled air that the performer forcefully blows into the upper inlet 310 from exceeding the measurable range of the temperature sensor 360. As a result, the musical tone intended by the performer is more easily generated.

[0068] Thus, while providing bends and constrictions in the main channel makes it easier to generate the musical tones intended by the performer, a complex path in the main channel makes it easier for saliva contained in exhaled breath and moisture generated by condensation to remain in the main channel. If this moisture blocks, for example, the opening 356a of the constricted channel 326 or the branched channel 356, it becomes difficult for the temperature sensor 360 to detect the exhaled breath blown in from each inlet 310, 311.

[0069] Therefore, in this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which moisture is dried (preventing condensation) by warming the upstream portion of the main flow path with the substrate 34. This configuration will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0070] Figure 5(a) is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle unit 3 along the line Va-Va in Figure 4, and Figure 5(b) is a cross-sectional view of the nozzle unit 3 along the line Vb-Vb in Figure 4.

[0071] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the substrate 34 is provided with a heater 341 and a sensor 342 (see Figure 5(a) for both). The heater 341 can use a known heat-generating element such as a chip resistor, and the sensor 342 can use a known temperature sensor such as a thermistor, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0072] The temperature of the substrate 34, as a result of heating by the heater 341, is detected by the sensor 342. Based on the detection result of the sensor 342, the heater 341 is controlled to repeatedly turn on and off (or the temperature of the heater 341 changes). This control of the heater 341 ensures that the temperature of the substrate 34 is maintained at around 30°C to 35°C.

[0073] By heating the substrate 34 that constitutes the bottom surface of each bent channel 314a, 315a with the heater 341, saliva adhering to each bent channel 314a, 315a can be dried, and the generation of moisture due to condensation in each bent channel 314a, 315a can be suppressed.

[0074] Furthermore, by heating the substrate 34 with the heater 341, the housing-side flow path 323 connected to the second bent flow path 315a and the throttling flow path 326 located downstream of the housing-side flow path 323 can also be heated. Therefore, saliva adhering to the housing-side flow path 323 and the throttling flow path 326 can be dried, and the generation of moisture due to condensation in the housing-side flow path 323 and the throttling flow path 326 can be suppressed.

[0075] By preventing moisture from accumulating in the main channel upstream of the throttling channel 326 and the opening 356a of the branch channel 356 (see Figure 4), it is possible to prevent that moisture from flowing downstream of the main channel along with the exhaled breath. As a result, the throttling channel 326 and the opening 356a of the branch channel 356 are prevented from being blocked by moisture, allowing the exhaled breath flowing in the main channel to be accurately detected by the temperature sensor 360 (see Figure 4).

[0076] In this embodiment, the exhaled air flowing through the main channel is mainly exhausted from the first exhaust port 334, but a portion of the exhaled air is introduced into the internal space S1 of each housing 32, 33 through the leak channel 322b (see Figure 5(a)).

[0077] More specifically, the housing-side flow path 323 opens in the middle of the second bent flow path 315a, and a leak flow path 322b (see Figure 5(a)) is formed in the mounting hole 322 to which the lip plate 31 is attached, connecting the downstream end of the second bent flow path 315a to the internal space S1 side of each housing 32,33. This leak flow path 322b is formed by the gap between the edge of the substrate 34 in the circumferential direction of the blowing-side housing 32 and the inner circumferential surface of the blowing-side housing 32.

[0078] By forming a leak channel 322b that branches off from the main channel, a portion of the airflow generated in the second bent channel 315a can be introduced into the internal space S1 of the inlet unit 3 (i.e., a portion of the airflow can be discharged to the outside of the main channel). This suppresses the generation of airflow in the case-side channel 355 due to the performer's inhalation and the inflow of outside air, thus preventing the temperature sensor 360 (see Figure 4) from falsely detecting this airflow. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the generation of musical sounds that the performer did not intend.

[0079] Furthermore, by adjusting the cross-sectional area of ​​the leak channel 322b, it is possible to suppress the exhaled air blown forcefully into the upper inlet 310 by the performer from exceeding the measurable range of the temperature sensor 360. As a result, the musical tone intended by the performer is more easily generated.

[0080] Exhaled air flowing into the internal space S1 of each housing 32, 33 from the leak passage 322b is exhausted from the second exhaust port 335 (see Figure 5(b)) which penetrates the exhaust-side housing 33. The second covering portion 371 of the decorative body 37 that covers the second exhaust port 335 is formed to be installed between the first covering portion 370 and the third covering portion 372 (extending in the axial direction) (see Figure 4), and a cavity S2 (see Figure 5(b)) is formed between the exhaust-side housing 33 (second exhaust port 335) and the second covering portion 371.

[0081] As a result, even when the electronic wind instrument 1 is placed on a table or the like, the second exhaust port 335 is prevented from being blocked by the placement surface, and ventilation through the cavity S2 and the second exhaust port 335 is ensured. Therefore, even with a structure that leaks a portion of the exhaled air into the internal space S1 of each housing 32, 33 through the leak channel 322b (see Figure 5(a)), condensation on the components of each housing 32, 33 (for example, the substrate 36 shown in Figure 5(b)) can be suppressed.

[0082] Furthermore, a pair of inclined surfaces 371a (see Figure 5(b)) are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second covering portion 371 facing the second exhaust port 335, and these surfaces are aligned in the circumferential direction. The pair of inclined surfaces 371a are planes that slope away from the exhaust side housing 33 (second exhaust port 335) from their central vertices (intersecting ridges) to their outer ends in the circumferential direction. By forming such mountain-shaped inclined surfaces 371a, the flow velocity of air passing through the cavity S2 along the circumferential direction (left-right direction in Figure 5(b)) increases due to the inclined surfaces 371a. This increase in air flow velocity creates negative pressure in the internal space S1 of each housing 32, 33, and this negative pressure allows the air in the internal space S1 to be exhausted to the outside through the second exhaust port 335.

[0083] Furthermore, since the circumferential opening size of the second exhaust port 335 gradually increases from the internal space S1 to the outer surface of the exhaust-side housing 33, the air in the internal space S1 is more easily exhausted to the outside through the second exhaust port 335 by the airflow passing through the cavity S2 as described above. As a result, even with a structure that leaks a portion of the exhaled air into the internal space S1 of each housing 32, 33 through the leak passage 322b (see Figure 5(a)), condensation on the components of each housing 32, 33 can be suppressed.

[0084] As described above, through holes 370a and 372a (see Figure 4 for through hole 372a) are formed in the covering portions 370 and 372 of the decorative body 37 that covers the first exhaust port 334 and the recess 333b (vent 333c) of the boss 333 (see Figure 4). For example, recesses 370b are formed on both circumferential edges of the through hole 370a. Similarly, recesses 372b are formed on the edge of the through hole 372a shown in Figure 4.

[0085] By forming these recesses 370b and 372b in the through holes 370a and 372a, it is possible to prevent the first exhaust port 334 and the recesses 333b (ventilation port 333c) from being blocked by the mounting surface, even when the electronic wind instrument 1 is placed on a table or the like. Therefore, ventilation through the first exhaust port 334 and the recesses 333b (ventilation port 333c) can be ensured.

[0086] Next, with reference to Figure 6, the electronic wind instrument 201 of the second embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the case in which the temperature change of the air in the branched channel 356 heated by the heater 362 is detected by the temperature sensor 360 was described, but in the second embodiment, the case in which the change in airflow (atmospheric pressure) in the branched channel 380 is detected using the pressure sensor 363 will be described. Note that the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as in the first embodiment described above, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0087] As shown in Figure 6, the sensor module Sa of the electronic wind instrument 201 in the second embodiment is equipped with a pressure sensor 363 in place of the temperature sensor 360 and heater 362 (see Figure 4) described in the first embodiment, and cylindrical conduits 38 are provided in place of the walls 351 to 353 (see Figure 4) of the case 35. The pressure sensor 363 is a sensor that detects changes in atmospheric pressure, and since a known configuration can be used, a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0088] The pressure sensor 363 is mounted on the upper surface of the substrate 36, and a cylindrical connection port 363a is formed in the pressure sensor 363. One end of the conduit 38 is connected to the connection port 363a, and the other end of the conduit 38 is connected to the cylindrical portion 350 of the case 35. The conduit 38 may be formed integrally with the case 35 (cylindrical portion 350), or it may be a separate tube (for example, a flexible tube) from the case 35.

[0089] The cavity inside the conduit 38 is configured as a branched channel 380, and the opening 380a of this branched channel 380 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 350 (case-side channel 355). In other words, in this embodiment as well, the branched channel 380 branches off so as to intersect with the case-side channel 355. When the flow rate (flow velocity) of exhaled air flowing in the main channel (case-side channel 355) changes, a change also occurs in the airflow generated in the branched channel 380 (a secondary channel branching off from the main channel), and this change in airflow (atmospheric pressure) in the branched channel 380 is detected by the pressure sensor 363.

[0090] In this embodiment as well, the cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 380a of the branch channel 380 is formed to be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the part of the main flow channel to which the opening 380a of the branch channel 380 is connected (case-side flow channel 355). This has the effect of making it difficult for moisture-containing exhaled air to flow into the pressure sensor 363 side. Possible reasons for this effect include the fact that exhaled air passing through the case-side flow channel 355 is less likely to flow into the branch channel 380 side, and that exhaled air passing through the case-side flow channel 355 creates negative pressure in the branch channel 380, which in turn draws air in the branch channel 380 through the opening 380a into the case-side flow channel 355.

[0091] Although the above-described embodiments have been explained, the present invention is not limited in any way to the above embodiments, and it can be easily inferred that various improvements and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0092] In the embodiments described above, the electronic wind instrument 1,201 was described as an electronic instrument that imitates a flute, but it is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the electronic wind instrument 1,201 may imitate other wind instruments (such as a saxophone, clarinet, recorder, or flute).

[0093] In the embodiments described above, a configuration was described in which each bent channel 314a, 315a is heated by a heater 341, that is, a configuration in which a substrate 34 is provided on the bottom surface 322a of the mounting hole 322 of the lip plate 31, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the substrate 34 (heater 341) may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the blowing-side housing 32 opposite to the bottom surface 322a, or the substrate 34 (heater 341) may be omitted. In addition, a substrate (heater) may be provided to heat the case-side channel 355.

[0094] In the embodiments described above, the main flow path is described as being composed of a first bent flow path 314a, a second bent flow path 315a, a housing-side flow path 323, a throttling flow path 326, and a case-side flow path 355, but the invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, some or all of the connection parts of each of these flow paths 314a, 315a, 323, 326, and 355 may be modified, or a part of each of the flow paths 314a, 315a, 323, 326, and 355 may be bent. In other words, the shape of the main flow path connecting each of the inlet ports 310 and 311 to the first exhaust port 334 can be arbitrarily changed, and the present invention can be applied to any electronic wind instrument that has branched flow paths that intersect the main flow path.

[0095] In the embodiments described above, the case-side channel 355, which is part of the main channel, is formed by the case 35 of the sensor modules Sa and Sb (the sensor modules Sa and Sb provide part of the main channel), but this is not necessarily the only case. For example, in addition to the case-side channel 355, the sensor modules Sa and Sb may also provide part or all of the first bent channel 314a, the second bent channel 315a, the housing-side channel 323, and the throttling channel 326. That is, the lip plate 31 that forms the main channel, part of the blowing-side housing 32 (for example, the mounting holes 322 and the lower projection 325), and part or all of the substrate 34 may also be components of the sensor modules Sa and Sb.

[0096] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the lip plate 31 has first bent channels 314a, 314b and second bent channels 315a, 315b is formed, has been explained, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, either the first bent channels 314a, 314b or the second bent channels 315a, 315b may be omitted, and the inlets 310, 311 and the housing-side channel 323 may be connected via the other bent channel. Alternatively, both the first bent channels 314a, 314b and the second bent channels 315a, 315b may be omitted, and the inlets 310, 311 and the housing-side channel 323 may be connected in a straight line.

[0097] In the embodiments described above, cases in which diaphragm channels 316a and 326 are formed in the middle of each bent channel 314a and 315a, or between the housing-side channel 323 and the case-side channel 355 (i.e., in the main channel upstream of the branched channel) have been explained, but the invention is not limited to these cases. For example, either one or both of the diaphragm channels 316a and 326 may be omitted, or a diaphragm channel may be formed in the case-side channel 355 (i.e., in the case 35).

[0098] In the embodiments described above, a case in which a leak channel 322b is formed in the second bent channel 315a (the main channel upstream of the branch channel) was explained, but the invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the leak channel 322b may be omitted (the gap between the substrate 34 and the blowing side housing 32 may be sealed), or a channel equivalent to the leak channel 322b may be formed in another part of the main channel.

[0099] In the embodiments described above, the cases in which the first and second exhaust ports 334 and 335 are formed in the exhaust-side housing 33 have been explained, but the invention is not necessarily limited to these cases. For example, an exhaust port corresponding to the first exhaust port 334 (i.e., an exhaust port for exhausting exhaled air from the main flow path) may be formed in the inlet-side housing 32, or the second exhaust port 335 may be omitted (or in addition to the second exhaust port) and an exhaust port for ventilating the internal space S1 of each housing 32, 33 may be formed in the inlet-side housing 32.

[0100] In the embodiments described above, the case in which the opening dimension of the second exhaust port 335 in the circumferential direction expands toward the outer circumference has been explained, but this is not necessarily the only case. For example, the opening dimension of the second exhaust port 335 in the circumferential direction may be constant from the inner circumference to the outer circumference, or it may narrow from the inner circumference to the outer circumference.

[0101] In the embodiments described above, the exhaust ports 334, 335 and recesses 333b are covered by a decorative body 37 in which the first to third covering portions 370 to 372 are integrally formed, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the first to third covering portions 370 to 372 may be formed separately, or some or all of the first to third covering portions 370 to 372 may be omitted.

[0102] In the embodiments described above, the second exhaust port 335 is covered by a second covering portion 371 that extends in the axial direction, but this is not necessarily the only case. For example, the second exhaust port 335 may be covered with a covering portion having a through hole that penetrates radially, similar to the first covering portion 370 and the third covering portion 372, or the first exhaust port 334 and the recess 333b may be covered with a covering portion that extends in the axial direction.

[0103] In the embodiments described above, a case was explained in which a pair of inclined surfaces 371a are formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second covering portion 371 so as to be aligned via a ridge, but the invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, a flat or curved surface may be formed at the boundary between the pair of inclined surfaces 371a, or the inner circumferential surface of the second covering portion 371 may be flat.

[0104] In the embodiments described above, bolts are used to fix the components of the electronic wind instrument 1 together, but other screw parts or fastening parts may also be used.

[0105] In the first embodiment described above, a case was described in which a projection 357 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the case-side flow path 355 (main flow path), but this is not necessarily the only case. For example, the projection 357 may be omitted, and an opening 356a for the branch flow path 356 may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the case-side flow path 355. Alternatively, in the second embodiment, a projection 357 connected to the conduit 38 (branch flow path 380) may be formed on the inner circumferential surface of the case-side flow path 355.

[0106] In the first embodiment described above, a case in which a tapered surface 356c is formed in the branched channel 356 was explained, but the invention is not necessarily limited to this. For example, the tapered surface 356c may be omitted, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the branched channel 356 may be constant across both ends in the axial direction, or a surface similar to the tapered surface 356c may be formed on the opening 356b side.

[0107] In the first embodiment described above, a case was described in which a vent 333c connecting the opening 356b of the branch channel 356 to the outside is formed in the boss 333 (recess 333b), but this is not necessarily the only case. For example, the opening 356b of the branch channel 356 may be connected to the outside via a vent (exhaust port) provided in a part other than the boss 333 (recess 333b). [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 1. Electronic wind instruments 32. Inlet housing (housing) 33 Exhaust side enclosure (enclosure) 310 Upper inlet (inlet) 311 Lower air inlet (air inlet) 314a, 314b First bend channel (part of the main channel) 315a, 315b Second bend channel (part of the main channel) 316a, 316b Aperture channel (part of the main channel) 322b Leakage channel 323 Enclosure-side flow path (part of the main flow path) 326 Aperture channel (part of the main channel) 333b Recess 334 First exhaust port (exhaust port) 335 Second exhaust port (exhaust port) 355 Case-side flow path (part of the main flow path) 356,380 branch channels 356a, 380a Opening (First opening) 356b Opening (Second opening) 357 Protrusion 360° Temperature Sensor (Sensor) 362 Heater 363 Pressure Sensor (Sensor) B3 Bolt (fastening component) Sa, Sb sensor module

Claims

1. In a sensor module for electronic wind instruments, The electronic wind instrument comprises a main flow path formed between an air intake and an air exhaust port provided on the outer surface of the instrument's casing, a branch flow path that intersects the main flow path, and a sensor provided in the branch flow path for detecting changes in the airflow in the branch flow path caused by changes in the exhaled air flowing through the main flow path. A sensor module for an electronic wind instrument, characterized in that the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening of the branch channel formed at the connection portion of the main channel and the branch channel is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main channel at the connection portion of the main channel and the branch channel.

2. On the inner circumferential surface of the main channel, a projection is formed that protrudes toward the inner circumferential side of the main channel. The sensor module for an electronic wind instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the first opening is formed on the tip side of the projection.

3. The main flow path is formed upstream of the connection portion and includes a throttling flow path in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the main flow path is partially reduced. The sensor module for an electronic wind instrument according to claim 2, characterized in that the tip of the projection is located on the extension of the throttling channel.

4. The branch channel is equipped with a heater, The sensor module for an electronic wind instrument according to claim 1, characterized in that the sensor detects temperature changes in the branched channel heated by the heater.

5. The sensor module for an electronic wind instrument according to claim 4, characterized in that the cross-sectional area of ​​the branched channel is formed to gradually decrease from the sensor side toward the first opening side.

6. It has a housing with an exhalation inlet and an exhaust port formed on its outer surface, An electronic wind instrument characterized in that the sensor module described in claim 1 is provided inside the housing.

7. The outer surface of the housing has recesses formed for fastening fastening members. The electronic wind instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that a second opening of the branching channel is formed on the inner circumference side of the recess.

8. The electronic wind instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that the main channel is formed upstream of the connection portion and comprises a constricted channel in which the cross-sectional area of ​​the main channel is partially reduced.

9. The electronic wind instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that the main flow path is formed upstream of the connection portion and includes a curved flow path that bends with respect to the direction in which exhaled air is blown into the mouthpiece.

10. A leak channel is provided that branches off from the main channel upstream of the aforementioned connection point. The electronic wind instrument according to claim 6, characterized in that a portion of the exhaled air flowing through the main channel is introduced into the housing through the leak channel.

11. The electronic wind instrument according to claim 10, characterized in that the exhaust port comprises at least a first exhaust port for exhausting exhaled air flowing downstream of the connection portion to the outside of the housing, and a second exhaust port for exhausting exhaled air introduced into the housing from the leak passage to the outside of the housing.

12. A method for detecting exhaled breath in an electronic wind instrument, comprising: a housing having an exhaled breath inlet and an exhaled breath outlet formed on its outer surface; a main flow path formed between the inlet and the exhaled breath outlet of the housing; a branch flow path that branches off so as to intersect with the main flow path; and a sensor provided in the branch flow path, A method for detecting exhaled breath, characterized in that the cross-sectional area of ​​the first opening of the branch channel formed at the connection portion of the main channel is made smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the main channel at the connection portion of the main channel, and the sensor detects a change in the airflow of the branch channel caused by a change in the exhaled breath flowing through the main channel.

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