Sound System

Abstract

To suppress reduction in the effect of induction effective sound on a person making use of a toilet.SOLUTION: An acoustic system comprises: a speaker that is arranged in a toilet booth equipped with a toilet bowl in a toilet space and outputs induction effective sound acting on human psychology; a sensor unit for detecting the movement of a person in at least one of the toilet booth and a shared space of the toilet space; and a control unit that raises sound pressure of the induction effective sound output by the speaker from predetermined sound pressure, in accordance with the movement of the person detected by the sensor unit or the movement of a device arranged in the toilet space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to an audio system. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, devices that emit sounds in toilet spaces such as toilet booths are known. For example, a comfortable sound generating device that generates comfortable sounds to eliminate excretion sounds and make the toilet booth comfortable has been provided (e.g., Patent Document 1). In addition, for example, a sound imitation device that is attached to the wall of the toilet and outputs sounds that can mask the sounds of discharging urine, feces, and gas during excretion has been provided (e.g., Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-055797 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2019-052493 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the above-mentioned technologies, it is not always possible to make the sounds that you want people using the toilet to hear (recognize) are the sounds you want them to hear.

[0005] In the acoustic device described in Patent Document 1, when noise (noise sound) that is a sound other than the sound that the person using the toilet wants to hear, such as comfort sound, occurs, the comfort sound may become hard to hear, and the effect of the comfort sound may not be obtained. Examples of noise include the sound of other people using the toilet, the operating sound of equipment used for flushing the urinal, drying with warm air, etc. More specifically, examples include the operating sound of people or equipment in other booths in a toilet where multiple toilet booths are arranged side by side, i.e., toilet booths other than the toilet booth that the person is using, shared spaces, the person's own booth, etc., or the comfort sound reproduced in another booth. For example, when an induction sound effect, which is a sound that affects people's psychology, is reproduced in the person's own booth, there is a problem that the effect of the induction sound effect is reduced by the above-mentioned noise being mixed with the induction sound effect of the person's booth, making it hard to hear the induction sound effect of the person's booth, and the awareness (attention) of the person using the toilet being directed to the noise, etc.

[0006] Furthermore, the audio device described in Patent Document 2 aims to mask the sounds of excreting urine, feces, and gas during excretion. In other words, Patent Document 2 aims to muffle the sounds of people using the toilet and to prevent people from hearing (not noticing) the sounds, and does not take into consideration what sounds should be heard (notified) by people using the toilet. Therefore, it is desirable to suppress the reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet even when sounds other than the guiding sound effect played in the toilet booth are generated.

[0007] In view of the above, it is an issue to prevent a reduction in the effectiveness of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0008] An object of the disclosed embodiment is to provide an audio system that can suppress a reduction in the effect of guiding sound effects on people using the toilet. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The sound system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized in that it comprises a speaker disposed in a toilet booth equipped with a toilet bowl in a toilet space, which outputs an induced sound effect that influences people's psychology, a sensor unit which detects human movement in at least one of the toilet booth or a shared space of the toilet space, and a control unit which increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the human movement detected by the sensor unit.

[0010] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when a person (hereinafter also referred to as a "user") uses the toilet booth, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect, which is a sound that affects a person's psychology, is increased from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the movement of the person detected by a sensor that detects the movement of the person in the toilet space. For example, the audio system controls the loudness of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker arranged in the toilet booth in response to the movement of the person detected by the sensor that detects the movement of the person in the toilet space. In addition, the audio system acquires an operation signal of an apparatus installed in the toilet space, and controls the loudness of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the toilet booth in response to the operation of the apparatus. This makes it difficult for the audio system to hear noise sounds (also simply referred to as "noise") generated by the movement of the person, and makes it possible to suppress the noise from interfering with the guiding sound effect. In this way, the audio system can prevent the reduction of the guiding sound effect for sounds (noise) other than the guiding sound effect by increasing the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect even if noise occurs when the guiding sound effect is played. Therefore, the audio system can suppress the reduction of the effect of the guiding sound effect on the person using the toilet.

[0011] In one aspect of the embodiment, the sound system is characterized in that the sensor unit detects a person entering the toilet booth, and the control unit causes the speaker to play the guiding sound effect at the specified sound pressure when a person has entered the toilet booth.

[0012] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when a sensor that detects human movement detects the entry of a person into a toilet booth, the audio system controls the sound effect to play in the toilet booth that the person entered. This allows the audio system to reduce wasted power by playing the sound effect only when necessary. In addition, since the sound effect is played when a person enters or leaves the toilet booth, the user's attention can be directed more to the sound effect.

[0013] In one aspect of the embodiment, the sound system is characterized in that the sensor unit detects the opening and closing of the toilet booth door, and the control unit increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from the predetermined sound pressure when the toilet booth door is closed.

[0014] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when a sensor that detects the open / closed state of the toilet booth door detects that the toilet booth door is closed, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the booth is controlled to be increased. This allows the audio system to make it difficult for the user to hear noises such as the actions of others, the user's own actions, and the automatic flushing sound of the machine while the user is in the toilet booth. In this way, the audio system can suppress noise from interfering with the guiding sound effect while the user is in the toilet booth. Therefore, the audio system can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0015] In one aspect of the embodiment, the sound system is characterized in that the sensor unit detects a person sitting on the toilet bowl of the toilet booth, and the control unit increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from the predetermined sound pressure when a person is sitting on the toilet bowl.

[0016] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when a sensor installed in a toilet booth detects a seated state on a toilet bowl (also simply referred to as a "toilet bowl"), the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the booth is controlled to be increased when the sensor detects a seated state on the toilet bowl. This allows the audio system to make it difficult for the user to hear noises such as the actions of others, the user's own actions, and the automatic flushing sound of the machine while the user is seated on the toilet bowl. In this way, the audio system can suppress noise from interfering with the guiding sound effect while the user is seated on the toilet bowl. Therefore, the audio system can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet. Furthermore, users often seek to refresh or relax while seated, and the audio system can efficiently provide the effect of the guiding sound effect.

[0017] In one aspect of the embodiment, the acoustic system is characterized in that the sensor unit detects the number of people present in the toilet space, and the control unit increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from the predetermined sound pressure when two or more people are present in the toilet space.

[0018] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when a sensor capable of detecting human motion detects the presence of two or more people in the toilet space, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the toilet booth is controlled to be increased. As a result, even if one person (person A) is listening to the guiding sound effect and another person (person B) makes noise, the audio system can play the guiding sound effect at an increased sound pressure to person A. Therefore, the audio system can make it difficult for person A to hear the noise made by person B, and can suppress the noise made by other people from interfering with the guiding sound effect. Therefore, the audio system can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0019] The sound system according to one aspect of the embodiment has a speaker that is placed in a toilet booth equipped with a toilet bowl in a toilet space and outputs an induced sound effect that acts on people's psychology, and a control unit that increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the operation of equipment placed in the toilet space.

[0020] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect, which is a sound that affects human psychology, is increased from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the operation of the equipment detected by a sensor or the like that detects the operation of the equipment placed in the toilet space when the user uses the toilet booth. For example, the audio system acquires an operation signal of the equipment installed in the toilet space, and controls so as to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the toilet booth in response to the operation of the equipment. This makes it possible for the audio system to make the noise sound (noise) generated by the operation of the equipment hard to hear, and to suppress the noise from interfering with the guiding sound effect. In this way, the audio system can prevent the reduction of the guiding sound effect for sounds (noise) other than the guiding sound effect by increasing the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect even if noise occurs when the guiding sound effect is played. Therefore, the audio system can suppress the reduction of the effect of the guiding sound effect on the person using the toilet.

[0021] In one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit of the audio system is characterized in that, when receiving an operation signal of the device placed in the toilet space, the control unit increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from the predetermined sound pressure.

[0022] According to an aspect of the embodiment, the sound system acquires an operation signal of a device installed in the toilet space, and controls the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the toilet booth to be increased in response to the operation of the device. This allows the sound system to make noises caused by device operation sounds unrelated to human actions, such as the sound of an automatic flush, less audible. Therefore, the sound system can suppress the guiding sound effect from being hindered by noises caused by objects (devices) other than people. Therefore, the sound system can suppress the reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0023] The sound system according to one aspect of the embodiment is characterized in that it comprises a speaker that is placed in a shared space in a toilet space and outputs an induced sound effect that acts on people's psychology, a sensor unit that detects human movement in at least one of a toilet booth equipped with a toilet bowl in the toilet space and the shared space, and a control unit that increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the human movement detected by the sensor unit.

[0024] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, a speaker is provided in the shared space, and the sound pressure of the sound (guiding sound effect) that affects people's psychology is increased from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the movement of a person detected by a sensor that detects the movement of a person in the toilet space. For example, the audio system controls the speaker disposed in the shared space to increase the volume of the guiding sound effect output in response to the movement of a person detected by a sensor that detects the movement of a person in the toilet space. This makes it possible for the audio system to play the guiding sound effect in the shared space, making it difficult to hear noise caused by the movement of a person, etc., and suppressing the noise from interfering with the guiding sound effect. In this way, the audio system can prevent a reduction in the guiding sound effect for sounds (noise) other than the guiding sound effect by increasing the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect even if noise occurs when playing the guiding sound effect. Therefore, the audio system can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0025] In one aspect of the embodiment, the sound system is characterized in that the sensor unit detects a person in the shared space, and the control unit causes the speaker to play the induced sound effect at the predetermined sound pressure when a person is present in the shared space.

[0026] According to an aspect of the embodiment, the audio system controls the playing of guiding sound effects in the shared space when a sensor that detects the presence of a person in the shared space detects the presence of a person in the shared space. This allows the audio system to reduce wasted power by playing guiding sound effects only when necessary.

[0027] In one aspect of the embodiment, the audio system is characterized in that the sensor unit detects the number of people present in the toilet space, and the control unit increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from the predetermined sound pressure when two or more people are present in the toilet space.

[0028] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, when a sensor capable of detecting human motion detects the presence of two or more people in the toilet space, the sound pressure of the emotion control sound reproduced in the shared space is controlled to be increased. As a result, even if one person (person A) is listening to the guiding sound effect and another person (person B) makes noise, the audio system can make the guiding sound effect heard by person A with increased sound pressure. Therefore, the audio system can make it difficult for person A to hear the noise made by person B, and can suppress the noise made by other people from interfering with the guiding sound effect. Therefore, the audio system can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0029] The sound system according to one aspect of the embodiment includes a speaker that is placed in a common space in a toilet space and outputs an induced sound effect that acts on people's psychology, and a control unit that increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the operation of equipment placed in the toilet space.

[0030] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, a speaker is provided in the shared space, and the sound pressure of the sound (guiding sound effect) that affects human psychology is increased from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the operation of the equipment detected by a sensor that detects the operation of the equipment installed in the toilet space. For example, the audio system acquires an operation signal of the equipment installed in the toilet space, and controls so as to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect reproduced in the toilet booth in response to the operation of the equipment. This makes it possible for the audio system to play the guiding sound effect in the shared space, making it difficult to hear the noise generated by the operation of the equipment, and suppressing the noise from interfering with the guiding sound effect. In this way, the audio system can prevent the reduction of the guiding sound effect for sounds (noise) other than the guiding sound effect by increasing the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect even if noise occurs when playing the guiding sound effect. Therefore, the audio system can suppress the reduction of the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0031] In one aspect of the embodiment, the control unit of the audio system is characterized in that, when receiving an operation signal of the device placed in the toilet space, the control unit increases the sound pressure of the induced sound effect output by the speaker from the predetermined sound pressure.

[0032] According to an audio system according to one aspect of the embodiment, the operation signal of the device installed in the toilet space is acquired, and the sound pressure of the emotion control sound reproduced in the shared space is controlled to be increased in response to the operation of the device. This allows the audio system to make noises caused by device operation sounds unrelated to human actions, such as the sound of an automatic flush, less audible. Therefore, the audio system can suppress the interference of the guiding sound effect with noises caused by objects (devices) other than people. Therefore, the audio system can suppress the reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet. Effect of the Invention

[0033] According to one aspect of the embodiment, it is possible to suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0034] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sound output control process according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of the sound output control process according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the audio system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement information storage unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure of a process executed by the audio system. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an audio system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of the sound output control process according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sound output control process according to the third embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of the sound output control process according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an audio system according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the arrangement information storage unit according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sound output control process according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of the sound output control process according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an audio system according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sound output control process according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an audio system according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0035] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an audio system disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[0036] <1. First embodiment> An overview of information processing executed in an audio system 1 (see FIG. 3) according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG 1. FIG 1 is a diagram showing an example of a sound output control process according to the first embodiment.

[0037] First, a description will be given of a toilet space to which the sound system 1 is applied, prior to describing the process shown in Fig. 1. The toilet space includes toilet booths forming private spaces, and a shared space that is a space other than the toilet booths.

[0038] A toilet booth is a space (private space) separated by a partition (partition). Each toilet booth is equipped with a toilet bowl and functions as a place where people perform excretory activities. Each toilet booth is also equipped with an openable door (not shown) for entering the toilet booth. Note that the doors of each toilet booth are similar to doors installed in general toilet booths, so detailed explanations are omitted. Also, the toilet booth does not have to be a space completely separated by a partition, and there may be a portion at the top or bottom of the partition that is not separated from adjacent toilet booths or supply spaces.

[0039] The shared space is a common area within the toilet space where multiple people can be present at the same time. For example, the shared space has an entrance to the toilet space, washroom facilities, and paths to each toilet booth. The shared space functions as a place for entering the toilet space, washing hands, moving to each toilet booth, etc. In addition, when the toilet space functions as a men's toilet space, a urinal may be placed in the shared space. In other words, the shared space may also function as a place where people perform excretory activities.

[0040] The toilet space TS shown in FIG. 1 has a toilet booth TB1, a toilet booth TB2, and a shared space CS. When describing the toilet booths provided in the toilet space TS without distinguishing between the toilet booths TB1, TB2, etc., they may be described as "toilet booth TB". In FIG. 1, a case where the toilet space TS has two toilet booths TB is described as an example, but the toilet space TS may have three or more toilet booths TB. In addition, the toilet space TS does not have to have multiple toilet booths TB, and may have one toilet booth TB. The shared space CS has an entrance to the toilet space TS, and is used as a place for entering and exiting the toilet space TS, moving to each toilet booth TB, washing hands, etc. For example, the toilet space TS is provided in a (commercial) facility such as a department store. The toilet space TS may be provided in various places, not limited to commercial facilities, but will be described later.

[0041] Next, the arrangement of each device in the toilet space TS will be described. Speaker 101 is arranged in toilet booth TB1. Speaker 102 is arranged in toilet booth TB2. When describing speakers arranged in the toilet space TS, such as speaker 101 and speaker 102, without distinguishing between them, they may be referred to as "speaker 10". Speaker 10 is an acoustic device that outputs sound in response to the control of control device 100, which will be described later. Speaker 10 outputs an induction sound effect that affects people's psychology. The arrangement position of speaker 10 is not particularly limited, and it is sufficient that it is installed in each toilet booth TB. For example, it may be installed on the ceiling, wall, floor, etc. of each toilet booth TB, or it may be installed in a toilet seat device provided above the toilet bowl.

[0042] <1-1. Induction sound effect> Here, the induction sound effect will be described. The induction sound effect is, for example, a sound having at least one effect among an emotion induction effect, an image induction effect, and a behavior induction effect. For example, an emotion induction effect is an effect that makes a person feel a specific emotion, such as joy or sadness. Also, for example, an image induction effect is an effect that induces a person to have a specific impression, such as an impression of luxury. Also, for example, a behavior induction effect is an effect that induces a person's behavior, such as hastening action or inducing attention.

[0043] Examples of sounds that have an emotion-inducing effect include music with a fast tempo and major keys, which are said to have the effect of making people feel elated. Examples of sounds that have an emotion-inducing effect include natural sounds such as the sound of waves, and music with a slow tempo and major keys, which are said to have the effect of making people feel relaxed.

[0044] An example of a sound that has the image-inducing effect is classical music, which is said to have the effect of creating an image of luxury.Another example of a sound that has the image-inducing effect is major key music, which is said to have the effect of creating a bright image.

[0045] An example of a sound that has a behavior-inducing effect is music with a fast tempo, which is said to have the effect of hastening people's actions.Another example of a sound that has a behavior-inducing effect is music with a fast tempo and a loud volume, which is said to have the effect of attracting people's attention.

[0046] It should be noted that the above-mentioned emotion induction effect, image induction effect, and behavior induction effect are not exclusive, and one sound may have multiple effects. For example, one sound (induction sound effect) may have two effects, an emotion induction effect and a behavior induction effect, and one sound (induction sound effect) may have multiple effects. Also, the above-mentioned emotion induction effect, image induction effect, and behavior induction effect are merely examples, and the induction sound effect may include any sound that acts on human psychology.

[0047] Returning to the explanation of the arrangement of each device in the toilet space TS, the first sensor 501 is a sensor device that detects the entry of a person into the toilet booth TB1. Note that in Fig. 1, in order to show the correspondence, an image is shown in which the first sensor 501 is arranged inside the toilet booth TB1, but as long as the first sensor 501 can detect the entry of a person into the toilet booth TB1, it may be arranged outside the toilet booth TB1.

[0048] Also, first sensor 502 is a sensor device that detects the entry of a person into toilet booth TB2. Note that, in order to show the correspondence relationship, in Fig. 1, an image is shown in which first sensor 502 is placed inside toilet booth TB2, but as long as first sensor 502 can detect the entry of a person into toilet booth TB2, it may be placed outside toilet booth TB2.

[0049] Hereinafter, when the sensor devices that detect the entry of a person into the toilet booth TB of the toilet space TS, such as the first sensor 501 and the first sensor 502, are described without distinction, they may be referred to as the "first sensor 50." The first sensor 50 transmits the detection result of the entry of a person into the corresponding toilet booth TB to the control device 100.

[0050] The second sensor 601 is a sensor device that detects the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB1. In Fig. 1, in order to show the correspondence, the second sensor 601 is shown as being placed inside the toilet booth TB1, but the second sensor 601 may be placed outside the toilet booth TB1 as long as it is possible to detect the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB1.

[0051] In addition, the second sensor 602 is a sensor device that detects the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB2. Note that, in order to show the correspondence, in Fig. 1, the second sensor 602 is shown as being placed inside the toilet booth TB2, but as long as the second sensor 602 can detect the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB2, it may be placed outside the toilet booth TB2.

[0052] Hereinafter, when the sensor devices that detect the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB in the toilet space TS, such as the second sensor 601 and the second sensor 602, are described without distinction, they may be referred to as the "second sensor 60." The second sensor 60 transmits the detection result of the opening and closing of the door of the corresponding toilet booth TB to the control device 100.

[0053] The control device 100 is a computer capable of communicating with the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 60. In FIG. 1, a case where the control device 100 is placed in a shared space CS of the toilet space TS is described as an example, but the control device 100 may be placed outside the toilet space TS. For example, the control device 100 may be a server device placed in a management facility of the sound system 1 outside the toilet space TS. Note that the above is only an example, and the device configuration and placement of the control device 100 may be any form as long as it can communicate with the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 60 and can realize processing. For example, the control device 100 may be a portable terminal (device) such as a laptop computer that can be carried by the manager of the sound system 1.

[0054] The control device 100 controls the output of the speaker 10. The control device 100 changes the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by the speaker 10 in accordance with the detection result by the first sensor 50 or the second sensor 60. This point will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0055] <1-2. Voice control processing example> Fig. 1 describes an example in which an guiding sound effect is played in the toilet booth TB1 and the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is changed when a user U uses the toilet booth TB1. Note that Fig. 1 illustrates a state in which the user U is sitting on the toilet seat ST of the toilet bowl TL provided in the toilet booth TB1, but this is for the purpose of illustrating an image of how the toilet booth TB is used by a user, and the usage state of the toilet booth TB1 changes depending on the actions of the user U.

[0056] First, in the example of Fig. 1, a user U enters the toilet booth TB1. For example, the user U enters the toilet booth TB1 by moving into the toilet booth TB1 whose door is in an open state. As a result, the first sensor 501 detects the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1. Then, the first sensor 501 transmits information indicating the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1 to the control device 100 (step S1).

[0057] Control device 100, which has received information indicating the entry of user U into toilet booth TB1 from first sensor 501, instructs speaker 101 of toilet booth TB1 to play an guiding sound effect (step S2). Control device 100 transmits information instructing speaker 101 of toilet booth TB1 to play an guiding sound effect. For example, when there are multiple guiding sound effects to be played, control device 100 may transmit information for specifying the guiding sound effect to be played, or may transmit sound source data of the guiding sound effect, to speaker 101 of toilet booth TB1.

[0058] The guiding sound effect reproduced in each toilet booth TB may be set in advance. For example, when the toilet space TS is installed in a department store, the control device 100 may cause the speaker 101 to reproduce an guiding sound effect that matches the image that the department store wants people to have, that is, an guiding sound effect having an image guiding effect. For example, when the department store in which the toilet space TS is installed wants people to have a sense of luxury, the control device 100 causes the speaker 101 to reproduce an guiding sound effect that has an effect of giving a luxurious image, such as classical music. In addition, when the facility (department store, etc.) in which the toilet space TS is installed is crowded with many people, the control device 100 may cause the speaker 101 to reproduce an guiding sound effect that speeds up people's actions. For example, when the toilet space TS is crowded with many people who want to use it, such as when there is a queue of people who want to use it, the control device 100 may cause the speaker 101 to reproduce an guiding sound effect that speeds up people's actions. Further, the guidance sound effect may be set or changed based on the season, weather, or temperature. For example, the guidance sound effect may be set or changed according to the time period such as opening hours and closing hours.

[0059] The speaker 101, which has received an instruction from the control device 100 to play the guiding sound effect, starts playing the guiding sound effect (step S3). As a result, the user U located in the toilet booth TB1 recognizes (hears) the guiding sound effect being played.

[0060] Thereafter, in the example of FIG. 1, the user U who has entered the toilet booth TB1 closes the door of the toilet booth TB1. For example, the user U moves the door of the toilet booth TB1, which is in an open state, to a closed position. As a result, the second sensor 601 detects that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed. Then, the second sensor 601 transmits information indicating that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed to the control device 100 (step S4). The user U keeps the door of the toilet booth TB1 closed by locking the door of the toilet booth TB1, and after undressing, performs excretory activities, etc.

[0061] The control device 100, which has received information from the second sensor 601 indicating that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed, instructs the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 101 (step S5). The control device 100 transmits information to the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 instructing it to increase (raise) the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output. For example, the control device 100 instructs the speaker 101 to increase the sound pressure by a predetermined set value.

[0062] The speaker 101, which has received an instruction from the control device 100 to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect, increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect (step S6). This allows the user U to recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect being played even in an environment where sounds (noises) such as undressing and excretion are generated. When the door of the toilet booth TB1 returns to the open state, the control device 100 instructs the speaker 101 to return the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output to the original level, i.e., to the level before the sound pressure was increased.

[0063] In this way, the sound system 1 reproduces the guiding sound effect when the user U enters the toilet booth TB1, thereby allowing the user U to recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect. The sound system 1 can also reduce wasteful power consumption caused by reproducing the guiding sound effect when no one is in the toilet booth TB1. The sound system 1 can increase the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output while the door of the toilet booth TB1 is closed, allowing the user U to recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect even when sounds (noises) such as undressing and excretion are generated. In other words, the sound system 1 can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on the user of the toilet booth TB in a situation where noise is generated by the user of the toilet booth TB himself. Therefore, the sound system 1 can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0064] <1-3. Layout of toilet space> In the example of FIG. 1, a commercial facility such as a department store is shown as an example of the place where the toilet space TS is installed, but the place where the toilet space TS is installed is not limited to a commercial facility such as a store, and may be various facilities. For example, the place where the toilet space TS is installed may be an amusement park, a stadium, an office building, etc. For example, the place where the toilet space TS is installed may be a toilet installed in an area such as a tourist destination. For example, the place where the toilet space TS is installed may be a park, a parking lot, etc. In other words, the toilet may be installed outdoors, such as in a park or a parking lot. In this way, the place where the toilet space TS is installed may be any place as long as there is space in which the toilet space TS can be installed.

[0065] <1-4. Control flow example> An example of a control flow will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of a sound output control process according to the first embodiment. Note that a description of the same points as in Fig. 1 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0066] In the example of Fig. 2, a control flow for the toilet booth TB1 will be described as an example. That is, in the example of Fig. 2, the speaker 10 is the speaker 101, the first sensor 50 is the first sensor 501, and the second sensor 60 is the second sensor 601.

[0067] 2 indicates the detection result of entry into toilet booth TB1 by first sensor 501. Moreover, waveform LN2 in Fig. 2 indicates the detection result of opening and closing of the door of toilet booth TB1 by second sensor 601. Moreover, waveform LN3 in Fig. 2 indicates the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by speaker 101.

[0068] 2, as shown by waveform LN1, at time t1, first sensor 501 detects the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t1, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "off", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected, to "on", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has been detected.

[0069] In response to detection of a person entering the toilet booth TB1 by the first sensor 501, the speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect as shown by the waveform LN3. For example, after time t1, the speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect at the first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG.

[0070] Then, as shown by waveform LN2, at time t2, the second sensor 601 detects that the door of the toilet booth TB1 is closed. For example, at time t2, the detection result of the second sensor 601 changes from "off", which indicates that the door of the toilet booth TB1 is open, to "on", which indicates that the door of the toilet booth TB1 is closed.

[0071] In response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed, the speaker 101 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output, as shown in waveform LN3. For example, after time t2, the speaker 101 increases the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect from the first sound pressure to a second sound pressure, which is a sound pressure higher than the first sound pressure and is indicated by "high" in FIG. 2.

[0072] Then, as shown by waveform LN2, at time t3, the second sensor 601 detects that the door of the toilet booth TB1 is open. For example, at time t3, the detection result of the second sensor 601 changes from "on", which indicates that the door of the toilet booth TB1 is closed, to "off", which indicates that the door of the toilet booth TB1 is open.

[0073] In response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been opened, the sound pressure of the guidance sound effect output by the speaker 101 is returned to the original state as shown in the waveform LN3. For example, after time t3, the speaker 101 reduces the output sound pressure of the guidance sound effect from the second sound pressure to the first sound pressure that is smaller than the second sound pressure.

[0074] Thereafter, as shown by waveform LN1, at time t4, first sensor 501 detects the exit of a person from toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t4, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "on", indicating that a person's entry into toilet booth TB1 has been detected, to "off", indicating that a person's entry into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected.

[0075] In response to detection by first sensor 501 of a person leaving toilet booth TB1, speaker 101 stops outputting the guiding sound effect as shown by waveform LN3. For example, after time t4, speaker 101 changes to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, as shown by "off" in FIG. 2.

[0076] In this embodiment, in response to detection by the first sensor 501 of a person entering the toilet booth TB1, output of the guiding sound effect is started from a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, indicated by "off" in FIG. 2, at a first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG. 2, and in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed, the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is increased from the first sound pressure to a second sound pressure indicated by "high" in FIG. 2. However, this is not limited to the above, and it is sufficient that in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed, the guiding sound effect is output at a sound pressure (for example, the second sound pressure indicated by "high" in FIG. 2) in which the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is greater than the sound pressure of noise in at least a part of the frequency band and the guiding sound effect is easily heard. For example, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been closed, output of the guiding sound effect is started, and the sound pressure may be gradually changed to the second sound pressure indicated by "high" at which the guiding sound effect is easily heard.

[0077] In addition, in this embodiment, an example has been shown in which the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is changed from the second sound pressure indicated by "high" in FIG. 2 back to the output of the guiding sound effect at the first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG. 2 from the second sound pressure in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been opened, and the guiding sound effect is changed back (lowered) from the first sound pressure to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, indicated by "off" in FIG. 2, in response to detection by the first sensor 501 that a person has left the toilet booth TB1. However, this is not limited to this, and the sound pressure may be controlled to gradually change from a sound pressure at which noise is difficult to hear (for example, the second sound pressure indicated by "high" in FIG. 2) to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, indicated by "off" in FIG. 2, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the door of the toilet booth TB1 has been opened.

[0078] <1-5. Sound system configuration> Next, the configuration of the acoustic system 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic system according to a first embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 3 shows the configuration of the acoustic system 1. The acoustic system 1 includes a plurality of speakers 10, a plurality of first sensors 50, a plurality of second sensors 60, and a control device 100. The acoustic system 1 may also include a plurality of control devices 100.

[0079] The speaker 10 is disposed in a toilet booth TB equipped with a toilet bowl TL in a toilet space TS. The speaker 10 outputs sound in response to control of the control device 100. The speaker 10 outputs an induction sound effect that acts on people's psychology. The location of the speaker 10 is not particularly limited, and it only needs to be installed within the toilet booth TB, and may be installed on the ceiling, wall, floor, etc. of the toilet booth TB, or may be mounted on the toilet seat ST.

[0080] The first sensor 50 functions as a detection unit that detects the entry of a person (user) into the target toilet booth TB. The first sensor 50 may be realized by various sensors. For example, the first sensor 50 may be various sensors such as a human body detection sensor, a behavior detection sensor, a presence detection sensor, etc. The first sensor 50 may be an image sensor (behavior detection sensor) that captures an image outside the toilet booth TB. Note that the above is an example, and the first sensor 50 may be realized by any means that can detect the entry of a user into the toilet booth TB. For example, when the first sensor 50 detects the entry of a person into the toilet booth TB, it transmits detection information indicating the detection and the date and time of the detection to the control device 100.

[0081] The second sensor 60 functions as a detection unit that detects the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB. It may be a door sensor (behavior detection sensor) provided on the door of the toilet booth TB. The second sensor 60 may be an image sensor (behavior detection sensor) that captures an image of the outside of the toilet booth TB. For example, when the second sensor 60 detects the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB, it transmits detection information indicating the detection and the date and time of the detection to the control device 100.

[0082] The first sensor 50 and the second sensor 60 function as a sensor unit that detects the movement of a person in at least one of the toilet booth TB of the toilet space TS and the shared space CS. An example in which the sensor unit detects the movement of a person in the shared space CS will be described later.

[0083] The control device 100 is an information processing device that changes the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 in response to the movement of a person detected by a sensor unit. The control device 100 receives detection results from the first sensor 50 and the second sensor 60. The control device 100 instructs the speaker 10 to start outputting sound or to change the sound pressure of the output sound.

[0084] The control device 100 is communicatively connected to the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 60 wirelessly or via a wired connection via a predetermined network N such as the Internet. Note that the control device 100 may be connected to the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 60 in any manner as long as information can be transmitted and received, and may be communicatively connected wirelessly or via a wired connection.

[0085] <1-6. Functional configuration of the control device> Hereinafter, the functional configuration of the control device will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device according to the first embodiment.

[0086] 4, the control device 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130. The control device 100 may also include an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the control device 100, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

[0087] The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a communication circuit or the like. The communication unit 110 is connected to a predetermined network N (see FIG. 3) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from an external information processing device. For example, the communication unit 110 is connected to the predetermined network N (see FIG. 3) by wire or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from other devices such as the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 60.

[0088] The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. For example, the storage unit 120 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records data used by a sound control program or the like. The storage unit 120 according to the first embodiment includes a placement information storage unit 121 and a guidance sound effect information storage unit 122, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0089] The placement information storage unit according to the first embodiment stores various information related to the placement of the speaker (acoustic device), sensor unit (sensor device), etc. of the audio system 1. For example, the placement information storage unit stores information related to the placement of the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 60. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the placement information storage unit according to the first embodiment. The placement information storage unit shown in Fig. 5 includes items such as "placement location," "speaker," and "sensor."

[0090] "Location" indicates identification information for identifying each location. In Fig. 5, for the sake of explanation, the "location" indicates the reference numbers "TB1" and "TB2" given to each toilet booth, but information that can identify the location (e.g., location ID, etc.) is stored in the "location."

[0091] "Speaker" indicates identification information for identifying a speaker (audio device) placed at a corresponding placement location. In Fig. 5, for the sake of explanation, "Speaker" is illustrated with reference numerals such as "101" and "102" attached to each speaker, but "Speaker" stores information that can identify the speaker (for example, a speaker ID, etc.).

[0092] "Sensor" stores information on various sensors included in the sensor unit. "Sensor" in Fig. 5 includes items corresponding to two types of sensors: "First sensor" and "Second sensor".

[0093] "First sensor" indicates identification information for identifying the first sensor disposed at the corresponding placement location. In Fig. 5, for the sake of explanation, the "first sensor" is illustrated with reference numerals such as "501" and "502" attached to each first sensor, but information capable of identifying the first sensor (e.g., a sensor ID, etc.) is stored in the "first sensor."

[0094] Also, "second sensor" indicates identification information for identifying the second sensor disposed at the corresponding placement location. In Fig. 5, for the sake of explanation, the "second sensor" is illustrated with reference numerals such as "601" and "602" attached to each second sensor, but the "second sensor" stores information capable of identifying the second sensor (e.g., a sensor ID, etc.).

[0095] The example in Figure 5 shows that a speaker 101, which is an audio device identified by "101", a first sensor 501, which is a sensor device identified by "501", and a second sensor 601, which is a sensor device identified by "601", are installed in a toilet booth TB1, which is an installation location identified by "TB1".

[0096] It also shows that in the toilet booth TB2, which is the location identified by "TB2", a speaker 102, which is an audio device identified by "102", a first sensor 502, which is a sensor device identified by "502", and a second sensor 602, which is a sensor device identified by "602", are installed.

[0097] The arrangement information storage unit 121 may store various information according to the purpose, not limited to the above. For example, the arrangement information storage unit 121 may store information indicating the guiding sound effect output by each speaker 10 and information indicating the specific arrangement position of each speaker 10 (e.g., latitude and longitude information, etc.) in association with each speaker 10. Also, for example, the arrangement information storage unit 121 may store information detected by each first sensor 50 and information indicating the specific arrangement position of each first sensor 50 (e.g., latitude and longitude information, etc.) in association with each first sensor 50. Also, for example, the arrangement information storage unit 121 may store information detected by each second sensor 60 and information indicating the specific arrangement position of each second sensor 60 (e.g., latitude and longitude information, etc.) in association with each second sensor 60. In addition, the placement information storage unit 121 may store information indicating the detection range of each of the first sensors 50 and each of the second sensors 60 when the placement locations and detection ranges (detection ranges) of the first sensors 50 and each of the second sensors 60 are different.

[0098] The guiding sound effect information storage unit 122 stores various information related to the guiding sound effect to be outputted from the speaker 10. For example, the guiding sound effect information storage unit 122 stores the sound source (data) of the guiding sound effect to be outputted from the speaker 10. The guiding sound effect information storage unit 122 stores information indicating how the guiding sound effect acts on a person's psychology, that is, information indicating the content of the guiding effect, in association with the sound source (data) of the guiding sound effect.

[0099] The guiding sound effect information storage unit 122 may store information indicating which guiding sound effect is to be output from which toilet booth. For example, the guiding sound effect information storage unit 122 stores information indicating the guiding sound effect to be output from each speaker 10 in association with the speaker 10. Note that the above is merely an example, and the guiding sound effect information storage unit 122 stores various information related to the guiding sound effect as necessary.

[0100] Returning to Fig. 4, the description will be continued. The control unit 130 is realized, for example, by a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or the like executing a program (for example, an acoustic control program according to the present disclosure) stored inside the control device 100 using a RAM or the like as a working area. The control unit 130 is a controller, and is realized, for example, by an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0101] 4, the control unit 130 has an acquisition unit 131, a determination unit 132, a change unit 133, and a transmission unit 134, and realizes or executes the functions and actions of information processing described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 130 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 4, and may be other configurations as long as they perform the information processing described below.

[0102] The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information. The acquisition unit 131 acquires various information from the storage unit 120. The acquisition unit 131 acquires information from other devices. The acquisition unit 131 receives various information from the first sensor 50, the speaker 10, etc. The acquisition unit 131 receives the detection result of the first sensor 50 from the first sensor 50. The acquisition unit 131 receives the detection result of the second sensor 60 from the second sensor 60.

[0103] The determination unit 132 performs a determination process. The determination unit 132 determines whether the speaker 10 starts outputting the guiding sound effect according to the detection result of the first sensor 50. When the first sensor 50 detects the entry of a person into the toilet booth TB, the determination unit 132 determines whether the speaker 10 starts outputting the guiding sound effect. In addition, the determination unit 132 determines whether the speaker 10 stops outputting the guiding sound effect according to the detection result of the first sensor 50. When the first sensor 50 detects the exit of a person from the toilet booth TB, the determination unit 132 determines whether the speaker 10 stops outputting the guiding sound effect. The determination unit 132 instructs the speaker 10 to start or stop outputting the sound by having the transmission unit 134 transmit information indicating the determination content.

[0104] The change unit 133 executes a change process to change the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10. The change unit 133 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 from a predetermined sound pressure according to the detection result of the second sensor 60. When the second sensor 60 detects that the door of the toilet booth TB is in an open state, the change unit 133 changes the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 to a first sound pressure.

[0105] When the second sensor 60 detects that the door of the toilet booth TB is closed, the change unit 133 changes the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 to a second sound pressure. The change unit 133 instructs the speaker 10 to change the sound pressure by causing the transmission unit 134 to transmit information indicating the change.

[0106] The transmitting unit 134 transmits information to an external information processing device. For example, the transmitting unit 134 transmits various information to the speaker 10. The transmitting unit 134 transmits information indicating the determination by the determining unit 132 to the speaker 10. The transmitting unit 134 transmits information indicating the change by the changing unit 133 to the speaker 10. The transmitting unit 134 transmits information regarding the output of the guiding sound effect to the speaker 10. Note that the transmitting unit 134 may transmit information to the first sensor 50 or the second sensor 60.

[0107] <1-7. Processing flow> From here, the processing flow of the sound output control processing will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the processing executed by the audio system.

[0108] The sound system 1 outputs a guiding sound effect that acts on people's psychology by a speaker 10 arranged in a toilet booth equipped with a toilet bowl in a toilet space (step S101). For example, the speaker 10 of the sound system 1 is arranged in a toilet booth TB equipped with a toilet bowl TL in the toilet space TS, and outputs a guiding sound effect that acts on people's psychology.

[0109] The sound system 1 detects the movement of a person in at least one of the toilet booth and the shared space (step S102). For example, a sensor unit including at least one of the first sensor 50 and the second sensor 60 of the sound system 1 detects the movement of a person in at least one of the toilet booth TB and the shared space CS of the toilet space TS.

[0110] The sound system 1 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output from the speaker from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the detected motion of the person (step S103). For example, the control device 100 of the sound system 1 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output from the speaker 10 from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the detected motion of the person.

[0111] <2. Second embodiment> The object (detection target) detected by the second sensor 60 is not limited to the opening and closing of the door of the toilet booth TB, and may be various detection targets. This point will be described below. First, a case where the detection target of the second sensor 60 is a user sitting (and leaving) on ​​the toilet bowl TL (the toilet seat ST) of the toilet booth TB will be described with reference to Figs. 7 and 8. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an audio system according to the second embodiment. Also, Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of the sound output control process according to the second embodiment. Note that, in the audio system 1A according to the second embodiment, explanations of the same points as those of the audio system 1 according to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0112] <2-1. Sound system configuration> As shown in the system configuration diagram of Fig. 7, the sound system 1A differs from the sound system 1 in that the second sensor 60 detects whether a person sits on or leaves the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB. Specifically, in the sound system 1A, the second sensor 601 is a sensor device that detects whether a person sits on or leaves the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1. That is, the second sensor 602 of the sound system 1A functions as a detection unit that detects whether a person sits on or leaves the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB2.

[0113] The second sensor 60 of the sound system 1A is realized by a seating detection sensor. The second sensor 60 of the sound system 1A detects a human body present above the toilet seat ST immediately before the user sits on the toilet TL, or a user sitting on the toilet TL. The second sensor 60 of the sound system 1A may be an infrared light emitting / receiving type distance measuring sensor or the like. The second sensor 60 of the sound system 1A may also be a switch that switches ON / OFF depending on the weight of a user sitting on the toilet TL. Note that the above is merely an example, and the second sensor 60 of the sound system 1A may be any sensor device that can detect a user sitting on and leaving the toilet TL.

[0114] The control device 100 of the sound system 1A increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 from a predetermined sound pressure in response to detection by the second sensor 60 of a user sitting on or leaving the toilet bowl TL (the toilet seat ST) of the toilet booth TB. When the second sensor 60 detects that a user has sat on the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB, the control device 100 of the sound system 1A increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10. Also, when the second sensor 60 detects that a user has left the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB, the control device 100 of the sound system 1A returns (lowers) the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 to its original state.

[0115] <2-2. Control flow example> From here, the control flow of the sound output control process according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of the sound output control process according to the second embodiment. Note that the description of the same points as in Fig. 2 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0116] In the example of Fig. 8, a control flow for the toilet booth TB1 will be described as an example. That is, in the example of Fig. 8, the speaker 10 is the speaker 101, the first sensor 50 is the first sensor 501, and the second sensor 60 is the second sensor 601.

[0117] Waveform LN11 in Fig. 8 indicates the detection result of entry into toilet booth TB1 by first sensor 501. Waveform LN12 in Fig. 8 indicates the detection result of opening and closing of the door of toilet booth TB1 by second sensor 601. Waveform LN13 in Fig. 8 indicates the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by speaker 101.

[0118] 8, as shown in waveform LN11, at time t11, first sensor 501 detects the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t11, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "off", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected, to "on", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has been detected.

[0119] In response to detection of a person's entry into toilet booth TB1 by first sensor 501, speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect as shown by waveform LN13. For example, after time t11, speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect at a first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG.

[0120] Thereafter, as shown in waveform LN12, at time t12, the second sensor 601 detects that a person has sat on the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t12, the detection result of the second sensor 601 changes from "off", which indicates that a person is not seated on the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 (also referred to as a "seated state"), to "on", which indicates that a person is seated on the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 (also referred to as a "seated state").

[0121] In response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 has entered a seated state, the speaker 101 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output, as shown in waveform LN13. For example, after time t12, the speaker 101 increases the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect from the first sound pressure to a second sound pressure, which is a sound pressure greater than the first sound pressure and is indicated by "high" in FIG.

[0122] Then, as shown in waveform LN12, at time t13, the second sensor 601 detects that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 is in an occupied state. For example, at time t13, the detection result of the second sensor 601 changes from "on", which indicates that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 is in an occupied state, to "off", which indicates that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 is in an occupied state.

[0123] In response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 has entered a seated state, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 101 is returned to the original state as shown in the waveform LN13. For example, after time t13, the speaker 101 reduces the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect from the second sound pressure to the first sound pressure that is smaller than the second sound pressure.

[0124] Thereafter, as shown by waveform LN11, at time t14, first sensor 501 detects the exit of a person from toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t14, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "on", indicating that a person has entered toilet booth TB1, to "off", indicating that a person has not entered toilet booth TB1.

[0125] In response to detection by first sensor 501 of a person leaving toilet booth TB1, speaker 101 stops outputting the guiding sound effect as shown by waveform LN13. For example, after time t14, speaker 101 changes to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, as shown by "off" in FIG.

[0126] In this embodiment, an example has been shown in which, in response to detection by the first sensor 501 of a person entering the toilet booth TB1, output of the guiding sound effect is started at a first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG. 8, and, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 of the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 being in a seated state, the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is increased from the first sound pressure to a second sound pressure indicated by "high" in FIG. 8. However, this is not limited to this, and it is sufficient that, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 of the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 being in a seated state, the guiding sound effect is output at a sound pressure (for example, the second sound pressure indicated by "high" in FIG. 8) that is greater than the sound pressure of noise and makes the guiding sound effect easier to hear. For example, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 of the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 being in a seated state, output of the guiding sound effect may be started, and the sound pressure may be gradually controlled to be changed to the second sound pressure indicated by "high" at which the guiding sound effect becomes easier to hear.

[0127] In addition, in this embodiment, an example has been shown in which, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 has left its seat, the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is returned from the second sound pressure to the first sound pressure shown by "low" in FIG. 8, and, in response to detection by the first sensor 501 that a person has left the toilet booth TB1, the first sound pressure is returned (lowered) to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, shown by "off" in FIG. 8. However, this is not limited to this, and the guiding sound effect may be controlled to gradually change in sound pressure from a sound pressure at which noise is difficult to hear (for example, the second sound pressure shown by "high" in FIG. 8) to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, shown by "off" in FIG. 8, in response to detection by the second sensor 601 that the toilet bowl TL of the toilet booth TB1 has left its seat.

[0128] <3. Third embodiment> In the above example, the second sensor detects each toilet booth TB, but the second sensor may detect the entire toilet space TS. This will be described with reference to Figs. 9 to 11. First, with reference to Fig. 9, an overview of information processing executed in an acoustic system 1B according to a third embodiment (see Fig. 11) will be described. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a sound output control process according to the third embodiment. Note that, in the acoustic system 1B according to the third embodiment, explanations of the same points as those in the acoustic system 1 according to the first embodiment or the acoustic system 1A according to the second embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0129] In the sound system 1B according to the third embodiment, the second sensor 70 is a sensor device that detects the presence of people in the toilet space TS. For example, the second sensor 70 functions as a detection unit that detects the number of people located in the toilet space TS. Note that, although FIG. 9 shows an image in which the second sensor 70 is placed in the shared space CS of the toilet space TS, the second sensor 70 may be placed anywhere as long as it is capable of detecting the number of people located in the toilet space TS. The second sensor 70 transmits information indicating the number of people located in the toilet space TS to the control device 100 as a detection result.

[0130] The control device 100 of the sound system 1B changes the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by the speaker 10 in accordance with the detection result by the second sensor 70. This point will be described below.

[0131] <3-1. Voice control processing example> Fig. 9 describes an example in which the guiding sound effect is played in the toilet booth TB1 and the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is changed when the user U uses the toilet booth TB1. Note that Fig. 9 illustrates a state in which the user U is sitting on the toilet seat ST of the toilet bowl TL provided in the toilet booth TB1, but this is for the purpose of illustrating an image of how the toilet booth TB is used by a user, and the usage state of the toilet booth TB1 changes depending on the actions of the user U.

[0132] First, in the example of FIG. 9, a user U enters the toilet booth TB1. For example, the user U enters the toilet booth TB1 by moving into the toilet booth TB1 whose door is in an open state. As a result, the first sensor 501 detects the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1. Then, the first sensor 501 transmits information indicating the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1 to the control device 100 (step S21). Note that at the time of step S21, only the user U is located in the toilet space TS. In this manner, when only the user U has entered the toilet space TS, the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is one. The second sensor 70 may transmit information indicating that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is one to the control device 100.

[0133] The control device 100, which has received information indicating the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1 from the first sensor 501, instructs the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to play an guiding sound effect (step S22). The control device 100 transmits information instructing the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to play an guiding sound effect.

[0134] The speaker 101, which has received an instruction from the control device 100 to play the guiding sound effect, starts playing the guiding sound effect (step S23). As a result, the user U located in the toilet booth TB1 recognizes (hears) the guiding sound effect being played.

[0135] After that, in the example of FIG. 9, a person other than the user U enters the toilet space TS. For example, a person other than the user U (hereinafter referred to as "user X") enters the toilet space TS and stays (is present) in the washroom of the shared space CS. As a result, the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is more than one (two or more). Note that even if the user X enters a toilet booth TB2 that is a toilet booth TB of a toilet space TS other than the toilet booth TB1, the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is more than one. In other words, the second sensor 70 detects that someone other than the user U is present in the toilet space TS. Then, the second sensor 70 transmits information indicating that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is more than one to the control device 100 (step S24).

[0136] The control device 100, which has received from the second sensor 70 the information indicating that there is more than one person in the toilet space TS, instructs the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 101 (step S25). The control device 100 transmits information to the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 instructing it to increase (louden) the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output.

[0137] The speaker 101, which has received an instruction from the control device 100 to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect, increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect (step S26). This allows the user U to recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect being played even in an environment where a person other than the user U (user X in FIG. 9) is making sound (noise). When the number of people in the toilet space TS returns to being alone, that is, when the number of people in the toilet space TS returns to being only the user U, the control device 100 instructs the speaker 101 to return the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output to the original level, that is, to the sound pressure before the sound pressure was increased.

[0138] In this way, while another user, user X, is present in the toilet space TS, the sound system 1B increases the sound pressure at which the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB where user U is present outputs the guidance sound effect, thereby allowing user U to recognize (hear) the guidance sound effect even if a sound (noise) is generated by user X. In other words, the sound system 1B can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guidance sound effect on the user of the toilet booth TB in a situation where noise is generated by another user in the toilet space TS. Therefore, the sound system 1B can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guidance sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0139] <3-2. Control flow example> An example of a control flow will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of a sound output control process according to the third embodiment. Note that a description of the same points as in Fig. 9 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0140] In the example of Fig. 10, a control flow for the toilet booth TB1 will be described as an example. That is, in the example of Fig. 10, the speaker 10 is the speaker 101, and the first sensor 50 is the first sensor 501.

[0141] 10 indicates the detection result of entry detection into the toilet booth TB1 by the first sensor 501. Moreover, waveform LN22 in Fig. 10 indicates the detection result of the number of people located in the toilet space TS by the second sensor 70. Moreover, waveform LN23 in Fig. 10 indicates the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by the speaker 101.

[0142] 10, as shown in waveform LN21, at time t21, first sensor 501 detects the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t21, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "off", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected, to "on", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has been detected.

[0143] In response to detection of a person's entry into toilet booth TB1 by first sensor 501, speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect as shown by waveform LN23. For example, after time t21, speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect at a first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG.

[0144] Thereafter, as shown in the waveform LN22, at time t22, the second sensor 70 detects that there are multiple people (two or more) located in the toilet space TS. For example, at time t22, the detection result of the second sensor 70 changes from "off", which indicates that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is one or less, to "on", which indicates that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is two or more.

[0145] In response to detection by the second sensor 70 that the number of people present in the toilet space TS has reached two or more, the speaker 101 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output, as shown in waveform LN23. For example, after time t22, the speaker 101 increases the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect from the first sound pressure to a second sound pressure, which is a sound pressure greater than the first sound pressure and is indicated by "high" in Fig. 10.

[0146] Thereafter, as shown in the waveform LN22, at time t23, the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS has become 1 or less. For example, at time t23, the detection result of the second sensor 70 changes from "on", which indicates that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is 2 or more, to "off", which indicates that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is 1 or less.

[0147] In response to detection by the second sensor 70 that the number of people located in the toilet space TS has fallen to 1 or less, the sound pressure of the guidance sound effect output by the speaker 101 is returned to the original level, as shown in the waveform LN23. For example, after time t23, the speaker 101 reduces the output sound pressure of the guidance sound effect from the second sound pressure to the first sound pressure which is smaller than the second sound pressure.

[0148] Thereafter, as shown by waveform LN21, at time t24, first sensor 501 detects the exit of a person from toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t24, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "on", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has been detected, to "off", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected.

[0149] In response to detection by first sensor 501 of a person leaving toilet booth TB1, speaker 101 stops outputting the guiding sound effect, as shown by waveform LN23. For example, after time t24, speaker 101 changes to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, as shown by "off" in FIG.

[0150] <3-3. Sound system configuration> Next, the configuration of an acoustic system 1B will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic system according to a third embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 11 shows the configuration of the acoustic system 1B. The acoustic system 1B includes a plurality of speakers 10, a plurality of first sensors 50, a second sensor 70, and a control device 100. The acoustic system 1B may also include a plurality of control devices 100 and a plurality of second sensors 70.

[0151] The second sensor 70 detects the number of people located in the toilet space TS. The second sensor 70 may be realized by various sensors. For example, the second sensor 70 may be various sensors such as a human body detection sensor, a behavior detection sensor, a presence detection sensor, etc. The second sensor 70 may be an image sensor (behavior detection sensor) that captures an image of the toilet space TS. For example, the second sensor 70 may capture an image of the entrance of the toilet space TS and detect the number of people located in the toilet space TS by counting the number of people entering and exiting the toilet space TS. Note that the above is an example, and the second sensor 70 may be realized by any means that can detect the number of people located in the toilet space TS. For example, when the second sensor 70 detects a change in the number of people located in the toilet space TS, it transmits detection information indicating the changed number and the date and time when the change was detected to the control device 100.

[0152] The first sensor 50 and the second sensor 70 function as a sensor unit that detects the movement of a person in at least one of the toilet booth TB of the toilet space TS and the shared space CS.

[0153] The control device 100 of the acoustic system 1B increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 from a predetermined sound pressure in response to detection by the second sensor 70 of the number of people located in the toilet space TS. When the second sensor 70 detects that there is more than one person located in the toilet space TS, the control device 100 of the acoustic system 1B increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10. Also, when the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is one or less, the control device 100 of the acoustic system 1B returns (reduces) the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 to the original level.

[0154] 12 instead of the information shown in the arrangement information storage unit 121. The storage unit 120 according to the third embodiment includes an arrangement information storage unit 121A and a guidance sound effect information storage unit 122.

[0155] The arrangement information storage unit according to the third embodiment stores various information related to the arrangement of the speaker (acoustic device), the sensor unit (sensor device), and the like of the audio system 1B. For example, the arrangement information storage unit stores information related to the arrangement of the speaker 10, the first sensor 50, and the second sensor 70. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the arrangement information storage unit according to the third embodiment. The arrangement information storage unit shown in FIG. 12 includes items such as "arrangement location," "speaker," and "sensor." Note that, in the arrangement information storage unit 121A shown in FIG. 12, explanations of the same points as those of the arrangement information storage unit 121 shown in FIG. 5 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0156] "Location" indicates identification information for identifying each location. In FIG. 12, for the sake of explanation, the "location" indicates symbols such as "TB1", "TB2", and "CS" that are assigned to each area (range) that constitutes the toilet space, but the "location" stores information that can identify the location (e.g., location ID, etc.). A "-" (hyphen) in the "speaker" and "sensor" items indicates that the corresponding device is not located at that location.

[0157] "Second sensor" indicates identification information for identifying a second sensor disposed at a corresponding location. In Fig. 12, for the sake of explanation, a reference number such as "70" is attached to each second sensor, but information capable of identifying the second sensor (e.g., a sensor ID, etc.) is stored in the "second sensor".

[0158] In the example of FIG. 12, a speaker 101, which is an audio device identified by "101", and a first sensor 501, which is a sensor device identified by "501", are placed in the toilet booth TB1, which is an installation location identified by "TB1". The second sensor is "-", which indicates that the second sensor 70 is not placed in the toilet booth TB1. Also, in the example of FIG. 12, a speaker 102, which is an audio device identified by "102", and a first sensor 502, which is a sensor device identified by "502", are placed in the toilet booth TB2, which is an installation location identified by "TB2". Also, the second sensor is "-", which indicates that the second sensor 70 is not placed in the toilet booth TB2. In this way, in the example of FIG. 12, it is indicated that the second sensor 70 is not placed in the toilet booth TB.

[0159] Also, it is shown that the second sensor 70, which is a sensor device identified by "70", is placed in the shared space CS, which is an placement location identified by "CS". Also, the speaker and the first sensor are "-", which shows that the speaker 10 and the first sensor 50 are not placed in the shared space CS.

[0160] The arrangement information storage unit 121A may store various information according to the purpose, not limited to the above. For example, the arrangement information storage unit 121A stores information indicating that the detection range of the second sensor 70 located in the shared space CS is the toilet space TS in association with the second sensor 70.

[0161] <4. Fourth embodiment> In the above-mentioned example, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is changed based on the information detected by the second sensor, but the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect may be changed using information other than that of the second sensor. This point will be described with reference to Figs. 13 to 15. First, with reference to Fig. 13, an outline of information processing executed in the sound system 1C according to the fourth embodiment (see Fig. 15) will be described. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of sound output control processing according to the fourth embodiment. Note that, in the sound system 1C according to the fourth embodiment, explanations of the same points as those of the sound system 1 according to the first embodiment, the sound system 1A according to the second embodiment, or the sound system 1B according to the third embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0162] An acoustic system 1C according to the fourth embodiment differs from the other acoustic systems 1, 1A, and 1B in that it does not have a second sensor. The acoustic system 1C changes the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect in response to, for example, a sound (noise) generated by a device disposed in the toilet space TS, instead of the detection result of the second sensor. This point will be described below. Examples of devices that are disposed in the toilet space TS and generate sound (noise) include a device that flushes a urinal and a device that performs hot air drying. In the following, devices that are disposed in the toilet space TS and generate sound (noise) are collectively referred to as "sound generating devices MC."

[0163] <4-1. Voice control processing example> Fig. 13 describes an example in which the guiding sound effect is played in the toilet booth TB1 and the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect is changed when the user U uses the toilet booth TB1. Note that Fig. 13 illustrates a state in which the user U is sitting on the toilet seat ST of the toilet bowl TL provided in the toilet booth TB1, but this is for the purpose of illustrating an image of how the toilet booth TB is used by a user, and the usage state of the toilet booth TB1 changes depending on the behavior of the user U.

[0164] First, in the example of FIG. 13, a user U enters the toilet booth TB1. For example, the user U enters the toilet booth TB1 by moving into the toilet booth TB1 whose door is in an open state. As a result, the first sensor 501 detects the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1. Then, the first sensor 501 transmits information indicating the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1 to the control device 100 (step S31). Note that, at the time of step S31, the sound generating device MC is not operating, that is, the sound generating device MC is not generating sound (noise). For example, the control device 100 acquires information indicating that the sound generating device MC is not operating. For example, the control device 100 may communicate with the sound generating device MC and receive information indicating the operating state of the sound generating device MC from the sound generating device MC, or may acquire information indicating the operating state of the sound generating device MC from a device that monitors the operating state of the sound generating device MC.

[0165] The control device 100, which has received information indicating the entry of the user U into the toilet booth TB1 from the first sensor 501, instructs the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to play an guiding sound effect (step S32). The control device 100 transmits information instructing the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to play an guiding sound effect.

[0166] The speaker 101, which has received an instruction from the control device 100 to play the guiding sound effect, starts playing the guiding sound effect (step S33). As a result, the user U located in the toilet booth TB1 recognizes (hears) the guiding sound effect being played.

[0167] After that, in the example of Fig. 13, the sound generating device MC starts operating. For example, the sound generating device MC, which is a device for flushing a urinal, starts operating and generates sound (noise). The control device 100 acquires information (operation signal) indicating that the sound generating device MC is operating (step S34).

[0168] The control device 100, which has acquired information (operation signal) indicating that the sound generating device MC is operating, instructs the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 101 (step S35). The control device 100 transmits information to the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB1 instructing it to increase (louden) the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output.

[0169] The speaker 101, which has received an instruction from the control device 100 to increase the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect, increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect (step S36). This allows the user U to recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect being played even in an environment where a device (sound generating device MC in FIG. 13) that generates sound (noise) is placed in the toilet space TS. When the sound generating device MC stops operating, the control device 100 instructs the speaker 101 to return the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output to the original level, i.e., to the sound pressure before the sound pressure was increased.

[0170] In this way, while the sound generating device MC is operating, the sound system 1C increases the sound pressure at which the speaker 101 of the toilet booth TB where the user U is present outputs the guiding sound effect, thereby allowing the user U to recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect even when sound (noise) is generated by another device (sound generating device MC). In other words, the sound system 1C can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on the user of the toilet booth TB in a situation where noise is generated by the sound generating device MC. Therefore, the sound system 1C can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0171] <4-2. Control flow example> An example of a control flow will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a timing chart of a sound output control process according to the fourth embodiment. Note that a description of the same points as in Fig. 13 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0172] In the example of Fig. 14, a control flow for the toilet booth TB1 will be described as an example. That is, in the example of Fig. 14, the speaker 10 is the speaker 101, and the first sensor 50 is the first sensor 501.

[0173] A waveform LN31 in Fig. 14 indicates a detection result of entry into the toilet booth TB1 by the first sensor 501. A waveform LN32 in Fig. 14 indicates whether or not an operation signal of a device (e.g., a sound generating device MC) has been acquired by the control device 100. A waveform LN33 in Fig. 14 indicates the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by the speaker 101.

[0174] 14, as shown in waveform LN31, at time t31, first sensor 501 detects the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t31, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "off", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected, to "on", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has been detected.

[0175] In response to detection of a person's entry into toilet booth TB1 by first sensor 501, speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect as shown by waveform LN33. For example, after time t31, speaker 101 starts outputting the guiding sound effect at a first sound pressure indicated by "low" in FIG.

[0176] Thereafter, as shown by the waveform LN32, at time t32, the control device 100 acquires an operation signal for the device. For example, at time t32, the state is changed from "off", which indicates that the control device 100 is not acquiring an operation signal for the device, to "on", which indicates that the control device 100 is acquiring an operation signal for the device.

[0177] In response to the control device 100 acquiring an operation signal for the device, the speaker 101 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect outputted from the speaker 101 as shown in waveform LN33. For example, after time t32, the speaker 101 increases the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect from the first sound pressure to a second sound pressure, which is a sound pressure higher than the first sound pressure and is indicated by "high" in FIG.

[0178] Thereafter, as shown by the waveform LN32, at time t33, the control device 100 stops acquiring the operation signal of the device. For example, at time t33, the state is changed from "on", which indicates that the control device 100 is acquiring the operation signal of the device, to "off", which indicates that the control device 100 is not acquiring the operation signal of the device.

[0179] When the control device 100 no longer acquires the operation signal of the device, the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 101 is returned to the original level as shown in the waveform LN33. For example, after time t33, the speaker 101 reduces the output sound pressure of the guiding sound effect from the second sound pressure to the first sound pressure that is smaller than the second sound pressure.

[0180] Thereafter, as shown by waveform LN31, at time t34, first sensor 501 detects the exit of a person from toilet booth TB1. For example, at time t34, the detection result of first sensor 501 changes from "on", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has been detected, to "off", indicating that the entry of a person into toilet booth TB1 has not been detected.

[0181] In response to detection by first sensor 501 of a person leaving toilet booth TB1, speaker 101 stops outputting the guiding sound effect, as shown by waveform LN33. For example, after time t34, speaker 101 changes to a state in which the guiding sound effect is not output, as shown by "off" in FIG.

[0182] <4-3. Sound system configuration> Next, the configuration of an acoustic system 1C will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an acoustic system according to a fourth embodiment. Specifically, Fig. 15 shows the configuration of the acoustic system 1C. The acoustic system 1C includes a plurality of speakers 10, a plurality of first sensors 50, and a control device 100. The acoustic system 1C may also include a plurality of control devices 100. The acoustic system 1C may also include a device that generates noise, such as a sound generating device MC.

[0183] The control device 100 of the audio system 1C increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 from a predetermined sound pressure in accordance with the operation of the device that generates sound (noise). When the device that generates sound (noise) is operating, the control device 100 of the audio system 1C increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10. Also, when the device that generates sound (noise) is not operating, the control device 100 of the audio system 1C returns (reduces) the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 to the original level.

[0184] Furthermore, the arrangement information storage unit 121 according to the fourth embodiment does not need to include information on the second sensor. For example, the storage unit 120 according to the fourth embodiment may store information on a device that generates noise (for example, the type of device, the location of the device, etc.).

[0185] <5. Fifth embodiment> In the above example, the speaker 10 is disposed in the toilet booth TB, but the speaker may be disposed in the shared space CS. This point will be described with reference to Figs. 16 and 17. First, with reference to Fig. 16, an overview of information processing executed in the sound system 1D according to the fifth embodiment (see Fig. 17) will be described. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing an example of sound output control processing according to the fifth embodiment. Note that, in the sound system 1D according to the fifth embodiment, explanations of the same points as those in the sound system 1 according to the first embodiment, the sound system 1A according to the second embodiment, the sound system 1B according to the third embodiment, or the sound system 1C according to the fourth embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0186] In the sound system 1D according to the fifth embodiment, the speaker 10 11 are placed in the shared space CS. In this way, in the acoustic system 1D, unlike the other acoustic systems 1, 1A, 1B, and 1C, the speaker 10 is placed in the shared space CS, not in the toilet booth TB. Note that in the example of FIG. 16, the speaker 10 and sensors are not placed in the toilet booth TB, but the speaker 10 may also be placed in the toilet booth TB. Also, the speaker 10 placed in the shared space CS 11 The placement position of the is not particularly limited, and it is sufficient that it is placed within the shared space CS, and it may be installed on the ceiling, wall, floor, etc. of the shared space CS.

[0187] Furthermore, in the acoustic system 1D according to the fifth embodiment, the second sensor 70 is a sensor device that detects people present in the toilet space TS, similar to the second sensor 70 of the acoustic system 1B according to the third embodiment. The second sensor 70 of the acoustic system 1D outputs information indicating the number of people present in the toilet space TS as the detection result. For example, the second sensor 70 of the acoustic system 1D may output information indicating whether the number of people present in the toilet space TS is 0 (no one), 1, or 2 or more.

[0188] The control device 100 of the sound system 1D starts or stops the output of the guiding sound effect by the speaker 10, and changes the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10, depending on the detection result by the second sensor 70. This point will be described below.

[0189] <5-1. Voice control processing example> FIG. 16 illustrates an example in which the guidance sound effect is reproduced and the sound pressure of the guidance sound effect is changed depending on the number of people present in the toilet space TS.

[0190] For example, in the example of FIG. 16, one person (referred to as "user Y") enters the toilet space TS. It is assumed that no one is present in the toilet space TS before the entry of user Y. Therefore, before the entry of user Y into the toilet space TS, the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is zero, i.e., that there is no one in the toilet space TS. In this case, the second sensor 70 transmits information indicating that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is zero to the control device 100.

[0191] Then, in response to the entry of the user Y into the toilet space TS, the second sensor 70 detects that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is one. Then, the second sensor 70 transmits information indicating that the number of people located in the toilet space TS is one to the control device 100 (step S41).

[0192] The control device 100 receives information indicating that the number of people present in the toilet space TS is one from the second sensor 70. 11 The control device 100 instructs the speaker 10 to play back the guidance sound effect (step S42). 11 The control unit 10 transmits information instructing the playback of a guidance sound effect to the user.

[0193] The speaker 10 receives an instruction from the control device 100 to play back the guiding sound effect. 11 starts playing the guiding sound effect. As a result, the user Y located in the toilet space TS recognizes (hears) the guiding sound effect being played.

[0194] After that, in the example of FIG. 16, a person other than user Y (referred to as "user Z") enters the toilet space TS. For example, user Z enters the toilet space TS and is present in the washroom of the shared space CS. As a result, the second sensor 70 detects that there are multiple people (two or more) present in the toilet space TS. In other words, the second sensor 70 detects that there is someone other than user Y present in the toilet space TS. Then, the second sensor 70 transmits information indicating that there are multiple people present in the toilet space TS to the control device 100 (step S43).

[0195] The control device 100 receives information indicating that there are a plurality of people in the toilet space TS from the second sensor 70, and outputs the information to the speaker 10. 11 The speaker 10 is arranged to increase the sound pressure of the induction sound effect output by the 11 (Step S44). The control device 100 instructs the speaker 10 11 The control unit 102 transmits information instructing the control unit 102 to increase (loosen) the sound pressure at which the guidance sound effect is output.

[0196] The speaker 10 receives an instruction from the control device 100 to increase the sound pressure of the induction sound effect. 11 In this way, even in an environment where a sound (noise) is being generated by a user other than the one user (user Y or user Z in FIG. 16) (user Z for user Y in FIG. 16, and user Y for user Z), the one user can recognize (hear) the guiding sound effect being played. Note that when the number of people in the toilet space TS returns to one person, i.e., when the number of people in the toilet space TS returns to one person, the control device 100 controls the speaker 10 11 to return the sound pressure at which the induction sound effect is output to its original level, i.e., to the level before the sound pressure was increased.

[0197] In this way, the sound system 1D operates by using the speaker 10 while a plurality of users are present in the toilet space TS. 11 By increasing the sound pressure at which the guiding sound effect is output, the guiding sound effect can be made recognizable (listen to) to the first user even if a sound (noise) is generated by a user other than the first user. In other words, the sound system 1D can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on the first user in a situation where noise is generated by another user in the toilet space TS. Therefore, the sound system 1D can suppress a reduction in the effect of the guiding sound effect on people using the toilet.

[0198] <5-2. Sound system configuration> Next, the configuration of an audio system 1D will be described with reference to FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an audio system according to a fifth embodiment. Specifically, FIG. 17 shows the configuration of the audio system 1D. The audio system 1D includes a speaker 10. 11 , a second sensor 70, and a control device 100. The acoustic system 1D may include a plurality of speakers 10, a plurality of second sensors 70, and a plurality of control devices 100.

[0199] The control device 100 of the sound system 1D increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 from a predetermined sound pressure in response to detection by the second sensor 70 of the number of people located in the toilet space TS. When the second sensor 70 detects that there is more than one person located in the toilet space TS, the control device 100 of the sound system 1D increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10. Also, when the second sensor 70 detects that there is only one person located in the toilet space TS, the control device 100 of the sound system 1D returns (reduces) the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 to the original level.

[0200] The control device 100 of the sound system 1D may change the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10 in accordance with the operation of a device that generates sound (noise), similar to the control device 100 of the sound system 1C. In this case, when the control device 100 of the sound system 1D receives an operation signal of a device placed in the toilet space TS when the number of people present in the toilet space TS is one, the control device 100 increases the sound pressure of the guiding sound effect output by the speaker 10.

[0201] The arrangement information storage unit 121 according to the fifth embodiment stores the speaker 10 arranged in the shared space CS. 11 and information about the second sensor 70. Note that the arrangement information storage unit 121 according to the fifth embodiment does not necessarily have to include information about the first sensor.

[0202] Further advantages and modifications may readily occur to those skilled in the art. Thus, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details and representative embodiments shown and described above. Accordingly, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0203] 1. Sound system 100 Control device 110 Communications Department 120 Storage section 121 Location information storage unit 122 Induction sound effect information storage unit 130 Control section 131 Acquisition Department 132 Decision Section 133 Changes 134 Transmitter 10 Speaker (audio equipment) 50 First sensor (sensor device) 60 Second sensor (sensor device) TS Toilet space CS shared space TB Toilet Booth TL Toilet ST Toilet Seat

Claims

1. a speaker that is disposed in a toilet booth having a toilet bowl in the toilet space and outputs an induction sound effect that acts on a person's psychology; A sensor unit that detects a person's movement in at least one of the toilet booth and a shared space of the toilet space; a control unit that increases a sound pressure of the induction sound effect outputted from the speaker from a predetermined sound pressure in response to the movement of the person detected by the sensor unit; having The sensor unit includes: Detecting the number of people present in the toilet space; The control unit is 13. An acoustic system comprising: a toilet space having a toilet seat; a toilet seat for accommodating a user; a toilet seat for accommodating a user; a toilet seat for accommodating a user;

2. The sensor unit includes: Detecting a person entering the toilet booth; The control unit is When a person is in the toilet booth, the induction sound effect is reproduced by the speaker at the predetermined sound pressure.

2. The audio system according to claim 1 .

Images