Public address system and IP speakers

Abstract

To automatically select an appropriate loud-speaking mode depending on usage and / or importance.SOLUTION: A loud-speaking broadcast system (1) includes an IP speaker (20) and a terminal (10). The IP speaker (20) can receive audio data or a loud-speaking command regarding loud-speaking using a predetermined protocol, and can execute a plurality of loud-speaking modes based on the audio data or the loud-speaking command. The terminal (10) is connected to the IP speaker (20) and transmits the audio data or the loud-speaking command to the IP speaker (20) using a predetermined protocol. The IP speaker (20) determines which loud-speaking mode to execute among the plurality of loud-speaking modes on the basis of predetermined priority for execution of the loud-speaking mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a public address system that causes an IP speaker to amplify audio, and to an IP speaker that amplifies audio. [Background technology]

[0002] An intercom system (IP call system) is a system that primarily performs internal calls. Typically, an intercom system includes one or more call terminals and one or more loudspeaker devices such as speakers. Each call terminal is equipped with a microphone and a speaker, and is interconnected via a network. Each call terminal performs internal calls by transmitting input audio to another call terminal of the other party in accordance with a predetermined protocol such as the SIP protocol. Each call terminal also performs a loudspeaker method by transmitting input audio to the loudspeaker. An example of an intercom system is disclosed in Patent Document 1. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-114951 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the system configured with the above-mentioned communication terminal and loudspeaker, there is a demand for amplifying the voice using different amplifying methods (loudspeaker modes) depending on the purpose and / or importance. For example, there are cases where it is desired to amplify the voice inputted into the communication terminal using a specific loudspeaker selected depending on the purpose and / or importance. Also, there are cases where it is desired to amplify specific sound source data stored in the loudspeaker depending on the purpose and / or importance.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to automatically select an appropriate loudspeaker mode depending on the purpose and / or importance in a system including a terminal for inputting voice and loudspeaker equipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The loudspeaker system of the present disclosure includes an IP speaker and a terminal. The IP speaker receives audio data or a loudspeaker command related to loudspeaker using a predetermined protocol and is capable of executing multiple loudspeaker modes based on the audio data or the loudspeaker command. The terminal is connected to the IP speaker and transmits the audio data or the loudspeaker command to the IP speaker using the predetermined protocol. In this loudspeaker system, the IP speaker determines which of the multiple loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] In the loudspeaker system of the present disclosure, the IP speaker automatically selects which of a plurality of loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes. This allows the loudspeaker system of the present disclosure to automatically select an appropriate loudspeaker mode depending on the application and / or importance, and to perform appropriate loudspeaker processing depending on the application and / or importance. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a loudspeaker system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an IP speaker. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of grouping IP speakers. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of identification information for identifying a group. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of identification information stored in a paging gateway. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker. [Figure 7E] FIG. 7E is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a table showing execution priorities. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the loudspeaker system in the unicast broadcast mode or the multicast broadcast mode. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the IP speaker in the loudspeaker mode.

[0009] 1. First embodiment (1) Configuration of the public address system A loudspeaker system 1 according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the loudspeaker system 1. The loudspeaker system 1 is a system used for applications such as evacuation guidance during disasters, playing background music and other music, broadcasting in factories and stores, and broadcasting to facilities spread across multiple locations. Therefore, the loudspeaker system 1 can amplify sounds in multiple ways. In the following description, these methods of amplifying sounds are referred to as "loudspeaker modes." The loudspeaker system 1 can execute various modes, such as amplifying audio input from a telephone terminal or the like using a specific speaker, amplifying audio input from multiple speakers simultaneously, and amplifying the built-in sound source of a speaker.

[0010] The loudspeaker system 1 includes a plurality of terminals 10, a plurality of IP speakers 20, and a paging gateway 30. In the loudspeaker system 1, the plurality of terminals 10, the plurality of IP speakers 20, the paging gateway 30, and a network N are, for example, networks such as a WAN or LAN. Furthermore, the network N may be a wired network, or a wireless network such as cellular communication.

[0011] The terminal 10 transmits, via the network N, audio data to be output from the IP speaker 20 and commands (called loudspeaker commands) for causing the IP speaker 20 to execute various functions. Each terminal 10 is assigned an identifier (e.g., an IP address) that uniquely identifies it on the network N. The terminal 10 transmits audio data in accordance with a protocol for IP calls. One example of a protocol for IP calls is the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), which is standardized by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) and specified in RFC3261. Meanwhile, the terminal 10 transmits loudspeaker commands using a protocol used on the Internet.

[0012] The IP speaker 20 is installed where loudspeaker broadcasting is desired, and performs loudspeaker broadcasting based on audio data or loudspeaker commands received via the network N. The loudspeaker system 1 is provided with five IP speakers 20a-20e. The number of IP speakers 20a-20e provided in the loudspeaker system 1 is not limited to five. Any number of IP speakers 20 can be provided depending on the purpose, scale, etc. of the loudspeaker system 1.

[0013] Each IP speaker 20 is assigned unique identification information (e.g., an IP address) on the network. The IP speaker 20 receives audio data in accordance with an IP communication protocol. The IP speaker 20 also receives amplification commands using the Internet Protocol. Each IP speaker 20 also receives audio data that is transmitted (multicast) using a multicast address that has been set in advance to allow reception.

[0014] Each IP speaker 20 stores a plurality of pieces of sound source data (called built-in sound source data SD) therein, and is capable of amplifying one of the plurality of built-in sound source data selected by a sound amplification command.

[0015] The paging gateway 30 is a so-called unicast-multicast converter that has the function of transmitting, by multicast, voice data received via the network N using a protocol for IP calls. The paging gateway 30 is assigned an identifier (e.g., an IP address) that identifies itself on the network N. As will be described later, the paging gateway 30 transmits the received voice data onto the network N by specifying a preset group identifier.

[0016] (2) Device configuration The configuration of the terminal 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the terminal 10. The terminal 10 has a processing unit 101, a storage unit 103, a network interface 105, a microphone 107, an input unit 109, and a display unit 111.

[0017] The processing unit 101 includes a CPU, an MPU, and the like, and executes various functions related to the terminal 10 by executing computer programs stored in the storage unit 103 .

[0018] The storage unit 103 is made up of memory (RAM, ROM) and storage devices (HDD, SSD, etc.), and constitutes a data storage area. In addition to computer programs, the storage unit 103 also stores data and the like required to realize the functions of the terminal 10. Specifically, the storage unit 103 stores identification information for multicast groups, which will be described later. In addition, the storage unit 103 stores a list of identifiers (e.g., IP addresses) of each IP speaker 20 in order to perform unicasting, which will be described later.

[0019] The network interface 105 connects the terminal 10 to the network N. The network interface 105 is, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) card.

[0020] The microphone 107 is an electro-acoustic transducer whose sound collection direction faces outward from the housing of the terminal 10, and collects the voice of a speaker speaking to the terminal 10 and outputs the voice data. The input unit 109 is an input device that accepts user operations such as buttons, switches, and touch panels.

[0021] The display unit 111 displays various information. When selecting an IP speaker 20 that will amplify audio using the terminal 10, the display unit 111 displays a list of the IP speakers 20 and / or a list of multicast groups for the IP speakers 20, which will be described later. The list of IP speakers 20 is used to identify IP speakers 20 that will perform unicast, which will be described later, and is associated with identifiers of the IP speakers 20 stored in the storage unit 103. On the other hand, the list of multicast groups is associated with identification information of the multicast groups stored in the storage unit 103.

[0022] When a user wants to amplify audio by unicast, the user can use input unit 109 to select the IP speaker 20 from which the user wants to amplify audio, from the list of IP speakers 20 displayed on display unit 111. On the other hand, when a user wants to amplify audio by multicast, the user can use input unit 109 to select the group from which the user wants to amplify audio, from the list for multicast displayed on display unit 111.

[0023] (3) IP speaker configuration The configuration of the IP speaker 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing the configuration of the IP speaker 20. The IP speaker 20 has a processing unit 201, a storage unit 203, a network interface 205, and a speaker 207.

[0024] The processing unit 201 includes a CPU, an MPU, and the like, and executes various functions related to the IP speaker 20 by executing computer programs stored in the storage unit 103 .

[0025] The storage unit 203 is made up of memory (RAM, ROM) and storage devices (HDD, SSD, etc.), and constitutes a data storage area. In addition to computer programs, the storage unit 203 also stores data necessary to realize the functions of the IP speaker 20. More specifically, the storage unit 203 stores multiple pieces of built-in sound source data SD. The storage unit 203 also stores setting registration information for multicast groups, which will be described later.

[0026] The network interface 205 connects the IP speaker 20 to the network N. The network interface 205 receives audio data to be amplified or an audio command using a predetermined protocol. The network interface 205 is, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) card.

[0027] The speaker 207 is an electro-acoustic transducer that emits sound outward from the housing of the IP speaker 20, and outputs the sound obtained by reproducing the audio data.

[0028] (4) IP speaker grouping and multicasting The following describes how the multiple IP speakers 20 are grouped and multicast based on this grouping. In the loudspeaker system 1, the multiple IP speakers 20 are grouped into multiple groups for multicast. That is, each IP speaker 20 belongs to one of the multiple groups. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the multiple IP speakers 20 are grouped into a first group G1, a second group G2, a third group G3, and a fourth group G4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of how the IP speakers 20 are grouped.

[0029] For example, all of the IP speakers 20a to 20e belong to the first group G1. Four of the IP speakers 20a to 20d belong to the second group G2. Two of the IP speakers 20b and 20c belong to the third group G3. Three of the IP speakers 20c to 20e belong to the fourth group G4. In the example shown in FIG. 4, each IP speaker 20 belongs to multiple groups.

[0030] The above grouping is an example, and any grouping can be used depending on the application, etc. Also, there may be an IP speaker 20 that belongs to only one group, or there may be an IP speaker 20 that does not belong to any group.

[0031] In the loudspeaker system 1, each of the groups is assigned an identifier (e.g., an IP address) on the network N. In the loudspeaker system 1, by transmitting audio data by designating this identifier, audio can be amplified to multiple IP speakers 20 belonging to the group identified by that identifier. For this reason, in the terminal 10 that issues the audio amplification command, identification information indicating which identifier each group has is stored in the storage unit 103. FIG. 5 shows an example of identification information when groups are identified by IP addresses. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of identification information for identifying groups. In the identification information shown in FIG. 5, the first group G1 is assigned the IP address "239.255.0.1," the second group G2 is assigned the IP address "239.255.0.2," and the third group G3 is assigned the IP address "239.255.0.3."

[0032] 5, the identifier of the paging gateway 30 (IP address 192.168.1.2) is assigned to the fourth group G4. That is, when the terminal 10 designates the identifiers (IP addresses 239.255.0.*) assigned to the first group G1 to the third group G3, the terminal 10 directly and simultaneously multicasts audio data to multiple IP speakers 20 belonging to the group designated by the identifier. This method of transmitting audio data is also called "direct multicast." On the other hand, when the terminal 10 designates the identifier (IP address 192.168.1.2) assigned to the fourth group G4, the terminal 10 first unicasts the audio data to the device having the identifier (i.e., the paging gateway 30), and then the device multicasts the audio data to the IP speakers 20 belonging to the specified group. This method of transmitting audio data is also called "indirect multicast."

[0033] Specifically, in the loudspeaker system 1 having the identification information shown in Fig. 5, the terminal 10 directly multicasts audio data to the IP speakers 20 belonging to the first group G1 to the third group G3 by specifying a multicast address (direct multicast). On the other hand, for the IP speakers 20 belonging to the fourth group G4, the terminal 10 first unicasts the audio data to the paging gateway 30 using an IP communication protocol, and then multicasts the audio data from the paging gateway 30 to the IP speakers 20 belonging to the fourth group G4 (indirect multicast). For this reason, the paging gateway 30 stores identification information, as shown in Fig. 6, that lists identifiers (e.g., IP addresses) assigned to groups that will amplify audio using indirect multicast. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of identification information stored in the paging gateway 30. In the identification information shown in Fig. 6, the multicast IP address "239.255.0.4" is assigned to the fourth group G4.

[0034] In this way, direct multicast and indirect multicast can be mixed in the loudspeaker system 1. Also, the loudspeaker system 1 may employ only direct multicast, or only indirect multicast. Furthermore, direct multicast and indirect multicast may be mixed for one group. It is possible to arbitrarily set which groups are to be used for direct multicast and which for indirect multicast.

[0035] Meanwhile, in the IP speaker 20 operating based on a loudspeaker command from the terminal 10, permission information regarding which identifier is designated in relation to multicast and transmitted audio data is permitted is stored in the storage unit 203. For example, in the case of grouping as shown in FIG. 4, the storage unit 203 of the IP speaker 20a belonging to the first group G1 and the second group G2 stores permission information including the identifier (IP address) of the first group G1 and the identifier (IP address) of the second group, as shown in FIG. 7A. FIG. 7A is a diagram showing an example of the permission information set in the IP speaker 20a. The storage unit 203 of the IP speaker 20b belonging to the first group G1 to the third group G3 stores permission information including the identifiers of the first group G1 to the third group G3, as shown in FIG. 7B. FIG. 7B is a diagram showing an example of the permission information set in the IP speaker 20b.

[0036] The storage unit 203 of the IP speaker 20c belonging to the first group G1 to the fourth group G4 stores permission information including identifiers of the first group G1 to the fourth group G4, as shown in FIG. 7C. FIG. 7C is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker 20c. The storage unit 203 of the IP speaker 20d belonging to the first group G1, the second group G2, and the fourth group G4 stores permission information including identifiers of the first group G1, the second group G2, and the fourth group G4, as shown in FIG. 7D. FIG. 7D is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker 20d. The storage unit 203 of the IP speaker 20e belonging to the first group G1 and the fourth group G4 stores permission information including identifiers of the first group G1 and the fourth group G4, as shown in FIG. 7E. FIG. 7E is a diagram showing an example of permission information set in the IP speaker 20e.

[0037] (4) Public address system operation (4-1) Overview The following describes the loudspeaker operation of the loudspeaker system 1. First, an overview of the loudspeaker operation will be given. In the loudspeaker system 1, the IP speaker 20 can be made to execute a plurality of loudspeaker modes based on audio data or commands related to loudspeaker (loudspeaker commands) transmitted from the terminal 10. In detail, the IP speaker 20 can be made to execute a unicast broadcast mode, a multicast broadcast mode (direct multicast or indirect multicast), and a built-in sound source loudspeaker mode.

[0038] The unicast broadcast mode is a mode in which audio data transmitted by the terminal 10 is amplified to one specific IP speaker 20 out of multiple IP speakers 20. The multicast broadcast mode is a mode in which audio data transmitted by the terminal 10 is amplified to multiple IP speakers 20 that belong to a specific group out of multiple IP speakers 20. The built-in sound source amplification mode is a mode in which built-in sound source data SD stored in the memory unit 203 of an IP speaker 20 is amplified to that IP speaker 20.

[0039] Furthermore, in the loudspeaker system 1, a setting is made for each IP speaker 20 as to which of a plurality of loudspeaker modes is to be given priority for execution. This setting can be realized, for example, by storing a table TA, as shown in FIG. 8, which indicates the priority for executing loudspeaker modes, in the storage unit 203 of the IP speaker 20. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the table TA indicating the priority for execution. Note that the table TA shown in FIG. 8 indicates the priority for execution set for IP speaker 20c, for example. Alternatively, the above setting can also be made by combining the ON and OFF states of a plurality of switches (e.g., DIP switches) provided on the IP speaker 20.

[0040] In the loudspeaker system 1, a common priority may be set for the same multicast group among the multiple IP speakers 20, or a different execution priority may be set for each IP speaker 20.

[0041] The priority of execution of multiple loudspeaker modes can be determined, for example, according to the following rules: Note that the following rules for determining priority are only an example, and priority can also be determined according to rules different from the rules described below.

[0042] In the multicast broadcast mode, priority is given to the multicast broadcast mode for the group that includes the largest number of IP speakers 20. For example, for an IP speaker 20c that belongs to all groups, the multicast broadcast mode for the first group G1 is given the highest priority. Thereafter, priority is given to the multicast broadcast mode for the second group G2, the multicast broadcast mode for the fourth group G4, and the multicast broadcast mode for the third group G3, in that order. This allows audio data that needs to be amplified over a wider area to be amplified with priority.

[0043] Furthermore, within the multicast broadcasting mode, a priority may be set between direct multicast and indirect multicast, for example, direct multicast may be given priority over indirect multicast.

[0044] Between the unicast broadcast mode and the multicast broadcast mode, for example, the priority of the unicast broadcast mode is placed between the high-priority multicast broadcast mode and the low-priority multicast broadcast mode. In detail, the priority is determined as follows: For example, in the IP speaker 20c, the priority is given in the following order: multicast broadcast mode for the first group G1, multicast broadcast mode for the second group G2, unicast broadcast mode, multicast broadcast mode for the fourth group G4, and multicast broadcast mode for the third group G3.

[0045] In the built-in sound source amplification mode, a priority may be set according to the built-in sound source. For example, if built-in sound source #1 is a sound source related to a message urging evacuation guidance in an emergency such as a disaster, and built-in sound source #2 is a sound source related to background music or advertising broadcasts played during normal times, the built-in sound source amplification mode that amplifies built-in sound source #1 may be prioritized, followed by the built-in sound source amplification mode that amplifies built-in sound source #2.

[0046] (4-2) Unicast broadcast mode / multicast broadcast mode operation The operation of the loudspeaker system 1 in the unicast broadcast mode or the multicast broadcast mode will be described below with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the loudspeaker system 1 in the unicast broadcast mode or the multicast broadcast mode.

[0047] First, the user refers to the list of IP speakers 20 or the list of groups displayed on the display unit 111 of the terminal 10, and uses the input unit 109 to select the IP speaker 20 or group from which the user wishes to amplify the sound (step S11).

[0048] After a specific IP speaker 20 or group is selected, the user speaks into the microphone 107, which picks up the voice. The terminal 10 then transmits the voice data by specifying the identifier of the IP speaker or group selected in step S1 (step S12).

[0049] For example, when the IP speaker 20b is selected by the terminal 10, the terminal 10 unicasts the audio data to the IP speaker 20b using an IP communication protocol. For example, when the first group G1 is selected by the terminal 10, the terminal 10 multicasts the audio data to the network N by specifying the identifier of the first group G1 (for example, the IP address "239.255.0.1"). For example, when the fourth group G4 is selected by the terminal 10, the terminal 10 unicasts the audio data to the network N by specifying the identifier of the paging gateway 30 (for example, the IP address "192.168.1.2"). As a result, the audio data is transmitted to the paging gateway 30. The paging gateway 30, which has received the audio data, multicasts the received audio data to the network N by specifying the identifier of the fourth group G4 (for example, the IP address "239.255.0.4").

[0050] The IP speaker 20 references the identifier specified as the destination of the audio data and determines whether or not to permit reception of the audio data (step S13). When audio data is transmitted by unicast with the identifier of the IP speaker 20 specified, the IP speaker 20 permits reception of the audio data if the specified identifier is its own identifier. On the other hand, when audio data is transmitted by multicast with the identifier of a group specified, the IP speaker 20 permits reception of the audio data if the specified identifier is included in the permission information stored in the storage unit 203.

[0051] If reception of audio data is permitted ("Yes" in step S13), the IP speaker 20 plays the received audio data and outputs it through the speaker 207 (step S14). On the other hand, if reception of audio data is not permitted ("No" in step S13), the IP speaker 20 ignores the transmitted audio data.

[0052] (4-3) Operation of the built-in sound source amplification mode The operation of the loudspeaker system 1 in the built-in sound source loudspeaker mode will be briefly described below. First, the user uses the input unit 109 of the terminal 10 to select the IP speaker 20 for which the user wishes to execute the built-in sound source loudspeaker mode and the built-in sound source data SD to be loudened by this IP speaker 20. The terminal 10 then transmits a loudspeaker command to execute the built-in sound source loudspeaker mode to the selected IP speaker 20 using HTTP (Hyper-Text Transport Protocol). This loudspeaker command includes identification information for the built-in sound source data SD to be loudened. Specifically, the loudspeaker command is composed of, for example, a predetermined method (e.g., GET method or POST method) defined by the HTTP protocol and a variable indicating the identification information for the built-in sound source data SD.

[0053] For example, the terminal 10 displays on the display unit 111 a list of IP speakers 20 and a list of the built-in sound source data SD stored in the memory unit 203 of each IP speaker 20, and accepts an operation to select an IP speaker 20 and the built-in sound source data SD using the input unit 109. When an IP speaker 20 that executes the internal sound source amplification mode and the built-in sound source data SD in that IP speaker 20 are selected, the terminal 10 unicasts a amplification command (e.g., an HTTP command specifying identification information for the built-in sound source data SD) to instruct the selected IP speaker 20 to amplify the selected built-in sound source data SD. For example, when built-in sound source #2 of IP speaker 20c is selected, the terminal 10 generates an HTTP command specifying identification information for built-in sound source #2 as a amplification command and unicasts this amplification command to IP speaker 20c.

[0054] When the IP speaker 20 receives the above-mentioned amplification command, it selects from the memory unit 203 the built-in sound source data SD to be amplified based on the identification information of the built-in sound source data SD included in the amplification command, plays the selected built-in sound source data SD, and amplifies it from the speaker 207.

[0055] (4-4) Amplification mode execution operation on IP speakers The operation of executing the loudspeaker mode in the IP speaker 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of executing the loudspeaker mode in the IP speaker 20. This operation is executed when the IP speaker 20 receives audio data or a loudspeaker command.

[0056] First, the processing unit 201 of the IP speaker 20 determines whether or not multiple pieces of audio data or loudness-increasing commands have been received by the IP speaker 20 (step S1). Here, "multiple pieces of audio data or loudness-increasing commands have been received" includes not only cases where multiple pieces of audio data or loudness-increasing commands have been received simultaneously, but also cases where new audio data or loudness-increasing commands have been received while one loudness-increasing mode is being executed.

[0057] If multiple pieces of audio data or loudspeaker commands have not been received, i.e., if one piece of audio data or loudspeaker command is received while loudspeaker mode is not being executed ("No" in step S1), the processing unit 201 executes the loudspeaker mode according to the received audio data or loudspeaker command (step S2).

[0058] On the other hand, if multiple pieces of audio data or loudspeaker commands have been received ("Yes" in step S1), the processing unit 201 determines which loudspeaker mode to execute from among the loudspeaker modes based on the received multiple pieces of audio data or loudspeaker commands, based on a predetermined priority for executing loudspeaker modes (step S3). In detail, the loudspeaker mode to execute is determined based on the priority for execution set in the IP speaker 20, for example, in accordance with the rules described above.

[0059] After determining the loudness-increasing mode to be executed, processing unit 201 executes the loudness-increasing mode determined in step S3 (step S4). For example, if new voice data or a loudness-increasing command related to a loudness-increasing mode with a higher priority is received while a certain loudness-increasing mode is being executed, the currently executed loudness-increasing mode is stopped, and the loudness-increasing mode based on the newly received voice data or loudness-increasing command is executed. Alternatively, if new voice data or a loudness-increasing command related to a loudness-increasing mode with a lower priority is received while a certain loudness-increasing mode is being executed, the currently executed loudness-increasing mode is continued without executing the loudness-increasing mode based on the newly received voice data or loudness-increasing command.

[0060] To give an example based on the priority setting of IP speaker 20c illustrated in Figure 8, for example, when IP speaker 20c receives and plays audio data related to the multicast broadcast of the second group G2 (priority 3), if it receives a loudspeaker command specifying built-in sound source #1 (priority 2), it compares priority 3 with priority 2 and decides to execute an internal sound source loudspeaker mode that loudspeakers built-in sound source #1 (step S3), stops the currently running playback of the audio data related to the multicast broadcast of the second group G2, and starts playback of built-in sound source #1 in accordance with the received loudspeaker command (step S4).

[0061] Also, for example, when the IP speaker 20c receives and plays audio data related to a unicast broadcast (priority 4) and then receives audio data related to a multicast broadcast (priority 6) of the third group G3, it compares priority 4 with priority 6 and decides to execute the unicast broadcast mode (step S3), and continues to play the audio data related to the unicast broadcast without playing the received audio data related to the multicast broadcast of the third group G3 (step S4).

[0062] As described above, in the loudspeaker system 1, the IP speaker 20 automatically selects which of a plurality of loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes. This allows the loudspeaker system 1 to automatically select an appropriate loudspeaker mode according to the purpose and / or importance, and to perform appropriate loudspeaker operation according to the purpose and / or importance.

[0063] By using the loudspeaker system 1 disclosed herein, it is possible to perform advanced and optimal broadcast control according to the purpose and / or importance of, for example, broadcasts made from the manager's office or each floor in a facility such as a factory, or broadcasts made between stores across multiple locations or within each store.

[0064] (5) Variations The above terminal 10 has the main functions of acquiring voice data and transmitting voice data and loudspeaker commands. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the terminal 10 may be a communication terminal capable of IP calls between multiple terminals 10.

[0065] For example, when multiple loud-speaker commands are received simultaneously, the execution order of the multiple loud-speaker commands may be determined based on the priority of the execution of the loud-speaker mode, and the loud-speaker commands (loud-speaker mode) may be executed in the determined order.

[0066] SIP has been exemplified above as an IP call protocol for transmitting audio data. However, the IP call protocol is not limited to this. For example, the Audio Back Channel defined by a protocol conforming to the ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum) (registered trademark) standard (ONVIF (registered trademark) protocol) may be used as the IP call protocol for transmitting audio data. In this case, the terminal 10 is an ONVIF (registered trademark) client on a VMS (Video Management System) installed with a program capable of transmitting audio data using the Audio Back Channel of the ONVIF (registered trademark) standard via RTSP (Real Time Streaming Protocol).

[0067] The above-described loudspeaker system 1 does not include a SIP server for communication using SIP. In other words, the loudspeaker system 1 transmits audio data using SIP without a server. However, this is not limiting, and a SIP server may be provided to transmit audio data from the terminal 10 to the IP speaker 20 or the paging gateway 30 using SIP.

[0068] 2. Features of the present disclosure (1) A loudspeaker system includes an IP speaker and a terminal. The IP speaker receives audio data or loudspeaker commands using a predetermined protocol and can execute multiple loudspeaker modes based on the audio data or loudspeaker commands. The terminal is connected to the IP speaker and transmits the audio data or loudspeaker commands to the IP speaker using the predetermined protocol. In this loudspeaker system, the IP speaker determines which of the multiple loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes.

[0069] In the loudspeaker system of the present disclosure, the IP speaker automatically selects which of a plurality of loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes. This allows the loudspeaker system of the present disclosure to automatically select an appropriate loudspeaker mode depending on the application and / or importance, and to perform appropriate loudspeaker processing depending on the application and / or importance.

[0070] (2) In the loudspeaker system of (1) above, a plurality of IP speakers may be provided. The plurality of loudspeaker modes may include a unicast broadcast mode. In the unicast broadcast mode, one of the plurality of IP speakers may loudspeaker the audio data received from the terminal. This allows the audio data acquired using the terminal to be loudspeaked by one specific IP speaker.

[0071] (3) In the loudspeaker system of (2) above, each of the multiple IP speakers may belong to one of multiple groups. The multiple loudspeaker modes may include a multicast broadcast mode. In the multicast broadcast mode, an IP speaker belonging to one of the multiple groups may amplify audio data received from a terminal. This allows audio data acquired using a terminal to be amplified by an IP speaker belonging to a specific group.

[0072] (4) In the loudspeaker system described in (3) above, multicast broadcasting mode may be prioritized for groups with a large number of IP speakers. This allows priority to be given to sounds that need to be amplified over a wider area.

[0073] (5) In any of the loudspeaker systems (1) to (4) above, the IP speaker may have a storage unit that stores built-in sound source data to be amplified by the IP speaker. The plurality of loudspeaker modes may include a built-in sound source loudspeaker mode. In the built-in sound source loudspeaker mode, the IP speaker may amplified the built-in sound source data in accordance with a loudspeaker command received. This allows the sound source data (built-in sound source data) built into the IP speaker to be amplified by the IP speaker in response to a loudspeaker command from the terminal.

[0074] (6) In the loudspeaker system of (5) above, the storage unit may store a plurality of built-in sound source data. Furthermore, in the built-in sound source loudspeaker mode, one of the plurality of built-in sound source data may be given priority for loudspeaker output. This allows appropriate built-in sound source data selected according to application and / or importance to be loudspeaked.

[0075] (7) In the loudspeaker system of (5) or (6) above, the protocol for transmitting loudspeaker commands may be the HTTP protocol, which allows loudspeaker commands to be transmitted easily.

[0076] (8) In any of the loudspeaker systems (1) to (7) above, the audio data may be transmitted and received using SIP, which allows the audio data to be transmitted from the terminal to the IP speaker using an optimal protocol for transmitting and receiving the audio data.

[0077] (9) An IP speaker according to the present disclosure includes a network interface and a processing unit. The network interface receives audio data or a loudspeaker command using a predetermined protocol. The processing unit executes a loudspeaker mode based on the audio data or the loudspeaker command. This IP speaker has multiple loudspeaker modes. The processing unit determines which of the multiple loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes.

[0078] In the IP speaker of the present disclosure, which of a plurality of loudspeaker modes to execute is automatically selected based on a predetermined priority for executing the loudspeaker modes. This allows the IP speaker of the present disclosure to automatically select an appropriate loudspeaker mode depending on the application and / or importance, and to execute appropriate loudspeaker execution depending on the application and / or importance. [Industrial Applicability]

[0079] The present disclosure is applicable to a public address system that causes an IP speaker to amplify audio, and to an IP speaker that amplifies audio. [Explanation of symbols]

[0080] 1: Public address system 10: Terminal 101: Processing section 103: Storage section 105: Network Interface 107:Mike 109: Input section 20: IP speaker 20a~20e: IP speakers 201: Processing section 203: Storage section 205: Network Interface 207: Speaker 30: Paging Gateway G1: First group G2: Second group G3: Third Group G4: Fourth Group N: Network SD: Built-in sound source data TA: Table

Claims

1. an IP speaker capable of receiving audio data or a loudspeaker command related to loudspeaker using a predetermined protocol and executing a plurality of loudspeaker modes based on the audio data or the loudspeaker command; a terminal connected to the IP speaker and transmitting the voice data or the loudspeaker command to the IP speaker using the predetermined protocol; Equipped with The IP speaker includes: determining which of the plurality of loudspeaker modes to execute based on a predetermined priority of execution of the loudspeaker modes; the IP speaker has a storage unit that stores built-in sound source data to be amplified by the IP speaker; The plurality of loudspeaker modes includes an internal sound source loudspeaker mode; In the built-in sound source amplification mode, the IP speaker amplifies the built-in sound source data in accordance with the received amplification command. Public address system.

2. A plurality of the IP speakers are provided, the plurality of amplification modes includes a unicast broadcast mode; The loudspeaker system according to claim 1 , wherein in the unicast broadcast mode, one IP speaker among a plurality of IP speakers amplifies the audio data received from the terminal.

3. Each of the plurality of IP speakers belongs to one of the plurality of groups, the plurality of amplifying modes includes a multicast broadcasting mode; 3. The loudspeaker system according to claim 2, wherein in the multicast broadcasting mode, an IP speaker belonging to any one of a plurality of groups amplifies the audio data received from the terminal.

4. 4. The loudspeaker broadcasting system according to claim 3, wherein the multicast broadcasting mode is executed with priority for a group that includes a large number of IP speakers.

5. the storage unit stores a plurality of built-in sound source data; 2. The loudspeaker system according to claim 1, wherein in the built-in sound source loudspeaker mode, one of a plurality of built-in sound source data is louded with priority.

6. 2. The loudspeaker system according to claim 1, wherein the protocol for transmitting the loudspeaker command is the HTTP protocol.

7. 2. The loudspeaker system according to claim 1, wherein the transmission and reception of the audio data is performed using SIP.

8. a network interface for receiving audio data or a command for amplifying audio using a predetermined protocol; a processing unit that executes a loudspeaker mode based on the voice data or the loudspeaker command; a storage unit for storing built-in sound source data; Equipped with There are a plurality of loudspeaker modes, the processing unit determines which of a plurality of loudness modes to execute based on a predetermined priority of execution of the loudness modes; The plurality of loudspeaker modes includes an internal sound source loudspeaker mode; In the built-in sound source amplification mode, the processing unit amplifies the built-in sound source data in accordance with the received amplification command. IP speaker.

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