Audio output device and display control program
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/JP2025/012184
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-01
Smart Images
Figure JP2025012184_01102026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Audio output device and display control program
[0001] The present invention relates to an audio output device and a display control program.
[0002] A technology is known that acquires a user's clothing image and displays a clock image corresponding to the acquired user's clothing image on the display of a wristwatch.
[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-064612
[0004] Incidentally, headphones and speakers are known as audio output devices that output audio. Headphones are worn on the head or hung around the neck, etc., and are placed in conspicuous positions. Speakers are placed in conspicuous positions, for example, beside a stage.
[0005] As described above, since audio output devices are placed in conspicuous positions, there is a demand for technologies that improve fashionability and presentation performance.
[0006] Note that the conventional technology changes the clock image displayed on the display of the wristwatch, and does not improve the fashionability or presentation performance of the entire housing of the wristwatch.
[0007] In one aspect, an object of the present invention is to provide an audio output device and a display control program capable of improving fashionability and presentation performance.
[0008] An audio output device according to one aspect includes electronic paper and a display control unit. The electronic paper is provided on at least a part of the surface. The display control unit controls display on the electronic paper based on display setting information. The display setting information is set in cooperation with an application used by a user.
[0009] According to one embodiment, fashionability and presentation performance can be improved.
[0010] Figure 1A is a side view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 1B is a front view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 1C is a top view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 3A is a side view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 3B is a front view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 3C is a top view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 4A is a side view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 4B is a front view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 4C is a top view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 5A is a side view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 5B is a front view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 5C is a top view showing the configuration of headphones according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the display control procedure according to the first embodiment. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an example of the functional configuration of a speaker according to the second embodiment. Figure 8A is a side view showing the configuration of a speaker according to the second embodiment. Figure 8B is a front view showing the configuration of a speaker according to the second embodiment. Figure 8C is a top view showing the configuration of a speaker according to the second embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a speaker according to the second embodiment. Figure 10A is a side view showing the configuration of a speaker according to the embodiment. Figure 10B is a front view showing the configuration of a speaker according to the embodiment. Figure 10C is a top view showing the configuration of a speaker according to the embodiment.
[0011] The following describes embodiments for implementing the audio output device and display control program related to this disclosure (hereinafter referred to as "Embodiments") with reference to the attached drawings. It should be noted that these embodiments represent only one example or aspect, and the following description does not limit the configuration, operation, function, properties, characteristics, methods, and applications related to this disclosure.
[0012] <First Embodiment> <Configuration of Headphones 10> First, an example in which the audio output device of this disclosure is headphones 10 will be described.
[0013] Figures 1A-1C show an example of the functional configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1A is a side view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1B is a front view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1C is a top view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0014] The headphones 10 have a headband 11 and two housings 12a and 12b. The headband 11 is formed in an arc shape. The housings 12a and 12b are formed in a short cylindrical shape. Housing 12a is supported by an arm 13a and connected to one end of the headband 11 via the arm 13a. Housing 12b is supported by an arm 13b and connected to the other end of the headband 11 via the arm 13b. Slider holders 14a and 14b are provided at both ends of the headband 11. The slider holders 14a and 14b have retractable sliders built into them. The slider holders 14a and 14b support arms 13a and 13b via the sliders.
[0015] The headphones 10 are worn by the user by sandwiching the head between the housings 12a and 12b via the headband 11. The position of the housings 12a and 12b is adjusted by extending or retracting the slider to fit the position of the user's ears.
[0016] The user-facing side of the housings 12a and 12b is provided with ear pads 15a and 15b in the parts that come into contact with the user. Inside the housings 12a and 12b are driver units that output sound. The user wearing the headphones 10 listens to the sound output from the driver units inside the housings 12a and 12b.
[0017] An electronic paper 20 is provided on at least a portion of the surface of the headphones 10. The electronic paper 20 is provided in a plurality of segments. The electronic paper 20 is provided on a surface that is visible from the outside of at least a portion of the parts that make up the headphones 10.
[0018] For example, the headphones 10 shown in Figure 1A-1C are composed of parts such as a headband 11, housings 12a and 12b, arms 13a and 13b, and slider holders 14a and 14b. The headband 11 has an upper surface that is divided into three rows in an arc direction, and each row is divided into multiple segments, with an electronic paper 20a provided in each segment. The front and rear sides of the headband 11 are each divided into four segments along an arc, with an electronic paper 20b provided in each segment.
[0019] Housings 12a and 12b each have an electronic paper display 20c on their side surface (cylindrical bottom surface). Housings 12a and 12b also each have an electronic paper display 20d on their cylindrical circumferential surface. Arms 13a and 13b each have an electronic paper display 20e. The lower parts of slider holders 14a and 14b each have an electronic paper display 20f on their side surface. The electronic paper display 20c of housing 12a displays a mark 21.
[0020] Any type of electronic paper 20 (20a-20f) may be used. Some electronic paper displays allow for changes in color and shade across the entire area where the display is placed. An example of such electronic paper 20 is E Ink's Prism 3. Other electronic paper displays allow for changes in color and shade for each dot constituting the area where the display is placed, enabling the display of images. An example of such electronic paper 20 is E Ink's Spectra 6. The electronic paper 20 is configured to allow for changes in various colors. For example, the electronic paper 20 can be configured to allow for changes in 8 colors or 24 colors.
[0021] In this embodiment, electronic paper 20a, 20b, 20d-20f are electronic paper capable of changing color and shading across the entire area. Electronic paper 20c is electronic paper capable of displaying an image. Note that electronic paper 20a-20f may be electronic paper capable of changing color and shading across the entire area, or they may be electronic paper capable of displaying an image.
[0022] <Functional Configuration of Headphones 10> Next, an example of the functional configuration of the control system that controls the display of the electronic paper 20 provided in the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0023] The headphones 10 include a battery 30, a communication unit 31, and a display control unit 32 as a control system for controlling the display of each electronic paper 20.
[0024] The battery 30 supplies power to the electrical components constituting the headphones 10, including each electronic paper 20, the communication unit 31, and the display control unit 32. Power to each electronic paper 20 may be supplied via the display control unit 32. Figure 2 shows a configuration in which power is supplied to each electronic paper 20 via the display control unit 32.
[0025] The communication unit 31 is connected to the network N by wire or wireless connection and transmits and receives information to and from an external device via the network N. For example, the communication unit 130 is implemented by a communication module or the like. For example, the communication unit 31 is enabled to communicate with an external device by wireless communication such as Bluetooth®, wireless LAN, or short-range wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication). In the example shown in Figure 2, an example is described in which the external device is a mobile terminal 40 such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.
[0026] The mobile terminal 40 has an application 41 installed that controls the display of each e-paper 20. The application 41 is configured to allow setting the display content of each e-paper 20. The application 41 may be a dedicated application for setting the display of each e-paper 20. The application 41 may also configure the display content of each e-paper 20 in cooperation with other applications, such as a music playback application. Furthermore, the application 41 may have other functions, such as a music playback function. The user configures the display content of each e-paper 20 using the application 41. The application 41 may also configure the display content of each e-paper 20 according to the user's context. The user's context includes the user's state, preferences, and environment. For example, the user uses the mobile terminal 40 to take a full-body photograph of themselves as part of their state. The application 41 analyzes the user's clothing coordination from the captured image and suggests colors and designs for each e-paper 20 that match the coordination. The user configures the display content of each e-paper 20 based on the suggested colors and designs. Furthermore, application 41 may set the display content of each e-paper 20 according to the genre of music and artwork played by the music playback application. Artwork refers to the album art of a song. For example, the application sets the display settings information according to the genre of music or artwork played by the music playback application. Application 41 may also accept themes from the user and suggest the colors and designs of each e-paper 20 corresponding to the accepted themes. For example, application 41 searches for designs corresponding to the themes accepted by the user from an image search engine and suggests the colors and designs of each e-paper 20 corresponding to the found designs. The user sets the display content of each e-paper 20 from the suggested colors and designs.
[0027] Application 41 transmits display setting information to the headphones 10, indicating the display content of each configured electronic paper 20. In this embodiment, the colors of each electronic paper 20a, 20b, 20d-20f are changeable. The image displayed on electronic paper 20c is changeable. The display setting information includes information on the colors to be displayed on each electronic paper 20a, 20b, 20d-20f. The display setting information also includes information on the images to be displayed on each electronic paper 20c.
[0028] The display control unit 32 controls the display of each electronic paper 20 provided in the headphones 10. For example, the display control unit 32 is implemented by a computer such as a microcontroller or an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The display control unit 32 may also function as a control unit that controls the entire headphones 10.
[0029] The display control unit 32 receives display setting information from the mobile terminal 40 via the communication unit 31. The display control unit 32 controls each electronic paper 20 and rewrites the display of each electronic paper 20 based on the display setting information.
[0030] Each e-paper display 20 consumes power from the battery 30 when rewriting its display, but does not consume power from the battery 30 when maintaining its display. Each e-paper display 20 can maintain its display even when the headphones 10 are turned off. Therefore, the headphones 10 can maintain the design of each e-paper display 20 even when they are turned off.
[0031] Here, Figures 3A-3C show an example of changing the display of each electronic paper 20 of the headphones 10. Figure 3A is a side view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3B is a front view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3C is a top view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Each electronic paper 20a, 20b, 20d-20f can be changed to black, blue, green, white, red, or yellow. Each electronic paper 20c can display an image that can be changed. Note that the colors that the electronic paper 20 can be changed to are not limited to those listed above.
[0032] In the example shown in Figure 3A-3C, the colors of each electronic paper 20a, 20b, and 20d-20f are changed to yellow, the background color of each electronic paper 20c is set to yellow, and a mark 21 is displayed in the center.
[0033] Figures 4A-4C show an example of changing the display of each electronic paper 20 of the headphones 10. Figure 4A is a side view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4B is a front view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4C is a top view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0034] In the example shown in Figures 4A-4C, the color of the electronic paper 20a in the two outermost rows and the outermost row of the central example is changed to black, and the color of the electronic paper 20a in the central example is changed to red. Also in the example shown in Figures 4A-4C, the color of each electronic paper 20b, 20d, and 20f is changed to black, and the color of each electronic paper 20c and 20e is set to red. Furthermore, if a mark 21 is printed on the housing 12a, by making the electronic paper 20c the same color as the mark 21, the mark 21 becomes less noticeable and can be made to appear as if it were erased. For example, in the example shown in Figure 4A, if the mark 21 is printed in red, the mark 21 can be made to appear as if it were erased by making the electronic paper 20c entirely red.
[0035] Figures 5A-5C show an example of changing the display of each electronic paper 20 of the headphones 10. Figure 5A is a side view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 5B is a front view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 5C is a top view showing the configuration of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment.
[0036] In the example shown in Figures 5A-5C, the three rows of electronic paper displays 20a on the top surface of the headband 11 have their colors alternating between red and black in adjacent electronic paper displays 20a to create a grid pattern. Also in the example shown in Figures 5A-5C, of the four electronic paper displays 20b, the two inner electronic paper displays 20b are changed to black, and the two outer electronic paper displays 20b are changed to red. Furthermore, in the example shown in Figures 5A-5C, the colors of each electronic paper display 20d and 20f are changed to red, the color of each electronic paper display 20e is changed to black, and the background color of each electronic paper display 20c is set to black, with, for example, a mark 21 displayed in the center in red.
[0037] In this way, the headphones 10 can have their design freely changed by changing the color of the e-paper 20, thereby enhancing their fashion appeal. As a result, users can use the headphones 10 not only for listening to music but also as a fashion item.
[0038] <Processing Flow> Next, the display control flow for controlling the display of each electronic paper 20 of the headphones 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 6 is a flowchart of an example of the display control procedure according to the first embodiment. The display control shown in Figure 6 is performed when display setting information is received from the mobile terminal 40.
[0039] The display control unit 32 receives display setting information from the mobile terminal 40 via the communication unit 31 (step S10).
[0040] The display control unit 32 controls each electronic paper 20, rewrites the display on each electronic paper 20 based on the display setting information, and terminates the process (step S11).
[0041] <Second Embodiment> <Configuration of Speaker 50> Next, an example in which the audio output device of this disclosure is a speaker 50 will be described.
[0042] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing an example functional configuration of a speaker 50 according to a second embodiment. FIG. 8A is a side view showing the configuration of the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8B is a front view showing the configuration of the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 8C is a top view showing the configuration of the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment.
[0043] A housing 51 of the speaker 50 is formed in a box shape. Two speaker units 52a and 52b are provided on one surface of the housing 51. The speaker 50 is arranged such that the surface on which the speaker units 52a and 52b are provided serves as a front surface 53, and the front surface 53 faces the sound output direction.
[0044] Electronic paper 20 is provided on at least a part of the surface of the speaker 50. The electronic paper 20 is divided into a plurality of segments. The electronic paper 20 is provided on the surface of the housing 51 that is visible from the outside.
[0045] For example, in the speaker 50 shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, the electronic paper 20 is provided on the front surface 53 of the housing 51, the left and right side surfaces 54 opposite the front surface 53, and the top surface 55. On the front surface 53 of the housing 51, electronic paper 20g is provided in a region excluding the portions of the speaker units 52a and 52b. The left and right side surfaces 54 of the housing 51 are divided into a plurality of grid-like segments, and each segment is provided with electronic paper 20h. Furthermore, the top surface 55 of the housing 51 is divided into a plurality of grid-like segments, and each segment is provided with electronic paper 20i.
[0046] Any type of electronic paper 20 (20g to 20i) may be used. In the present embodiment, the electronic paper 20g to 20i is electronic paper capable of changing color and shading over the entire region. Note that the electronic paper 20g to 20i may also be electronic paper capable of displaying images.
[0047] <Functional Configuration of Speaker 50> Next, an example of the functional configuration of a control system that controls the display of the electronic paper 20 provided in the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment is described. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment. Note that the example of the functional configuration of the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment is partially the same as the example of the functional configuration of the headphone 10 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 2, and therefore, the same reference numerals are given to the same portions, the description thereof is omitted, and the different portions are mainly described.
[0048] The speaker 50 includes, as a control system for controlling the display of each electronic paper 20, a power supply 60, a communication unit 31, and a display control unit 32.
[0049] The power supply 60 is connected to an external power supply such as a commercial power supply, and supplies electric power supplied from the external power supply to the electric components constituting the speaker 50 including each electronic paper 20, the communication unit 31, and the display control unit 32. Note that in a case where the speaker 50 is configured to be usable in an environment without an external power supply, the power supply 60 may be a battery. Power supply to each electronic paper 20 may be performed via the display control unit 32. FIG. 9 shows a case where power is supplied to each electronic paper 20 via the display control unit 32.
[0050] The communication unit 31 is connected to a network N via a wired or wireless connection, and transmits and receives information to and from an external device via the network N. In the example of FIG. 9, an example in which the external device is a DJ (Disc Jockey) device 70 is described.
[0051] The DJ equipment 70 is an audio device that integrates, for example, a DJ player and a DJ mixer. The DJ equipment 70 controls the sound, such as music, output from the speaker 50. The DJ equipment 70 has an application 71 installed that controls the display of each electronic paper 20. The application 71 is configured to allow setting the display content of each electronic paper 20. The application 71 may be a dedicated application for setting the display of each electronic paper 20. The application 71 may also configure the display content of each electronic paper 20 in cooperation with other applications, such as a music playback application. Furthermore, the application 71 may have other functions, such as a music playback function. The user may configure the display content of each electronic paper 20 using the application 71. For example, the user may configure the display content of each electronic paper 20 to match the surrounding environment in which the speaker 50 is installed. The user may also take a picture of the area around where the speaker 50 is installed using their smartphone and send the image to the application 71. Application 71 may suggest colors and designs for each e-paper 20 based on the received image, in accordance with the surrounding atmosphere, and the user may set the display content of each e-paper 20 from the suggested colors and designs. Alternatively, application 71 may set the display content of each e-paper 20 according to the genre and artwork of the music played by the music playback application. Furthermore, application 71 may accept themes from the user and suggest colors and designs for each e-paper 20 corresponding to the accepted themes. For example, application 71 accepts themes from the user, searches for designs corresponding to the themes using an image search engine based on the accepted themes, and suggests colors and designs for each e-paper 20 corresponding to the found designs. The user then sets the display content of each e-paper 20 from the suggested colors and designs.
[0052] Application 71 transmits display setting information indicating the display content of each configured electronic paper 20 to the speaker 50. In this embodiment, the color of each electronic paper 20g-20i can be changed. The display setting information includes information on the color to be displayed on each electronic paper 20g-20i.
[0053] The display control unit 32 controls the display of each electronic paper 20 installed in the speaker 50. The display control unit 32 receives display setting information from the DJ equipment 70 via the communication unit 31. The display control unit 32 controls each electronic paper 20 and rewrites the display of each electronic paper 20 based on the display setting information.
[0054] Each electronic paper display 20 requires power from the power supply 60 when rewriting its display, but does not require power from the power supply 60 when maintaining its display. Therefore, each electronic paper display 20 can maintain its display even when the speaker 50 is turned off. Therefore, the speaker 50 can maintain the design of each electronic paper display 20 even when it is turned off.
[0055] Here, Figures 10A-10C show an example of changing the display of each electronic paper 20 of the speaker 50. Figure 10A is a side view showing the configuration of the speaker 50 according to the embodiment. Figure 10B is a front view showing the configuration of the speaker 50 according to the embodiment. Figure 10C is a top view showing the configuration of the speaker 50 according to the embodiment. Each electronic paper 20g-20i can be changed to black, blue, green, white, red, or yellow.
[0056] In the example shown in Figures 10A-10C, the color of the electronic paper 20g has been changed to red. Also in the example shown in Figures 10A-10C, the color of each electronic paper 20h has been changed so that adjacent electronic paper 20h alternate between red and black to create a grid pattern. Furthermore, in the example shown in Figures 10A-10C, the color of the electronic paper 20i has also been changed so that adjacent electronic paper 20i alternate between red and black to create a grid pattern.
[0057] Thus, when the speaker 50 according to the second embodiment is placed in a conspicuous location, such as beside the stage, the performance can be enhanced by changing the color of the electronic paper 20.
[0058] <Other Embodiments> Now, although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, various applications are possible, and furthermore, it may be implemented in various different forms other than the first and second embodiments described above. The matters described in the first and second embodiments above are merely examples and can be changed.
[0059] For example, the color patterns of each electronic paper 20 are just examples and can be changed. The display control unit 32 may also control each electronic paper 20 to display images or moving images by switching between images at a predetermined frame rate.
[0060] Furthermore, the headphones 10 may be able to communicate with the DJ equipment 70 and receive display setting information from the DJ equipment 70. For example, in a live venue, each audience member wears headphones 10. The DJ equipment 70 transmits display setting information to each audience member's headphones 10. This allows for a performance where the design of each electronic paper 20 on each audience member's headphones 10 changes. For example, the application 71 of the DJ equipment 70 transmits display setting information for a design that matches the image of the music being played by the DJ equipment 70. This allows the DJ equipment 70 to change the design of each electronic paper 20 on the headphones 10 to match the image of the music. The audience can feel the specialness of the live performance by seeing the design of their own and the surrounding audience members' headphones 10 change. Also, each audience member wearing headphones 10 with a similar design can enhance the sense of unity. The transmitted display setting information may be stored in a memory unit provided in the headphones 10 or in the audience member's smartphone and made available for reuse. For example, by transmitting live-only display settings from the DJ equipment 70 to each audience member's headphones 10, audience members can obtain a special design for their headphones 10 as a memento of their participation in the live performance.
[0061] Furthermore, the headphones 10 may be able to share their design with other users' headphones 10. For example, the application 41 may be able to manage multiple headphones 10 as a group and send display setting information to multiple headphones 10 in the group. This makes it possible to change the design of the headphones 10 for each group.
[0062] Designs displayed on e-paper may have an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) attached to them. If a design has an NFT, the design may only be displayable after the NFT has been authenticated. Display setting information may be received by the application when the NFT has been authenticated in the application. For example, if the application authenticates the NFT attached to the design, it sends the display setting information of the design to the audio output device. For example, if the application 41 of the mobile terminal 40 and the application 71 of the DJ device 70 have an NFT attached to the design to be displayed on e-paper 20, they authenticate the NFT attached to the design, and if authentication is successful, they send the display setting information of the design to the audio output device. When displaying a design with an NFT attached on e-paper, the NFT owner's stamp may also be displayed. The use of NFTs can prove the uniqueness of the design and clearly identify its holder.
[0063] Furthermore, during a meeting using the conferencing application, the design of each electronic paper 20 of the headphones 10 may change to a design indicating that a meeting is in progress. For example, application 41 can cooperate with the conferencing application and send display setting information for a design indicating that a meeting is in progress during a meeting using the conferencing application. This allows the design of the headphones 10 to change to a design indicating that a meeting is in progress during a meeting using the conferencing application.
[0064] Furthermore, the display on one of the electronic paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change depending on the remaining battery level 30. For example, the display control unit 32 changes the color of one of the electronic paper displays 20 according to the remaining battery level 30 at predetermined intervals or when the application 41 instructs it to display the remaining battery level. This allows the user to understand the remaining battery level 30 from the color of the electronic paper display 20.
[0065] Furthermore, the display on one of the electronic paper displays 20 of the headphones 10 may change depending on the continuous usage time, the daily usage time, and the volume. For example, the display control unit 32 changes the color of one of the electronic paper displays 20 according to the continuous usage time, daily usage time, and volume at predetermined periodic intervals or when the application 41 instructs the display of the continuous usage time, daily usage time, and volume. This allows the user to understand the continuous usage time, daily usage time, and volume from the color of the electronic paper display 20.
[0066] Furthermore, in the event of an emergency such as a user being a victim of sexual harassment, the display on any of the electronic paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change. For example, if the mobile terminal 40 receives input from the user that they have been a victim of sexual harassment, it will notify the headphones 10 of the abnormality. When the headphones 10 are notified of the abnormality, the display control unit 32 will change the design of each electronic paper display 20 to a design indicating an emergency. For example, the display control unit 32 will perform a control to display a design indicating SOS. This allows the user to use the headphones 10 to alert those around them that there is an emergency.
[0067] Furthermore, in the event of a user's physical emergency, the display on any of the electronic paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change. For example, if the mobile terminal 40 or wearable device used by the user detects the user's pulse or physical movements and detects an abnormal pulse or abnormal movement such as a fall, it notifies the headphones 10 of the abnormality. When the headphones 10 are notified of the abnormality, the display control unit 32 changes the design of each electronic paper display 20 to a design indicating an emergency. For example, the display control unit 32 controls the display to show an SOS design. This allows the user to use the headphones 10 to alert those around them that there is an emergency.
[0068] Furthermore, the display on one of the e-paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change depending on the user's pulse rate and stress level. For example, the mobile terminal 40 or wearable device used by the user detects the user's pulse rate and stress level and notifies the headphones 10 of the detected pulse rate and stress level. In the headphones 10, the display control unit 32 changes the color of one of the e-paper displays 20 according to the notified pulse rate and stress level. This allows the user to understand their pulse rate and stress level from the color of the e-paper display 20.
[0069] Furthermore, the user's daily schedule may be displayed on one of the electronic paper displays 20 of the headphones 10 when the headphones are first powered on or at a predetermined time. For example, the mobile terminal 40 used by the user notifies the headphones 10 of the user's daily schedule. The display control unit 32 of the headphones 10 controls the display of the notified daily schedule on one of the electronic paper displays 20. This allows the user to understand their schedule by looking at the displayed daily schedule.
[0070] Furthermore, the display on one of the e-paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change depending on the weather forecast and time of day. For example, the mobile terminal 40 used by the user notifies the headphones 10 of the weather forecast and time of day for a predetermined location, such as the user's home or workplace. In the headphones 10, the display control unit 32 changes the color of one of the e-paper displays 20 according to the notified weather forecast and time of day. This allows the user to understand the weather forecast and time of day from the color of the e-paper display 20.
[0071] Furthermore, the display on one of the e-paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change in response to a reminder. For example, the mobile terminal 40 used by the user notifies the headphones 10 of a reminder before the start time of an scheduled event, such as the start of work. In the headphones 10, the display control unit 32 changes the color of one of the e-paper displays 20 in response to the notified reminder. This allows the user to understand the reminder from the color of the e-paper display 20.
[0072] Furthermore, the display on any of the electronic paper displays 20 on the headphones 10 may change in response to changes in volume. For example, the display control unit 32 changes the brightness of the electronic paper display 20 in response to changes in volume. This allows the user to understand the change in volume from the brightness of the electronic paper display 20.
[0073] Furthermore, the speaker 50 may be a speaker used by the user personally. The speaker 50 may be capable of communicating with the mobile terminal 40 used by the user and may receive display setting information from the mobile terminal 40.
[0074] Furthermore, the display on any of the electronic paper displays 20 of the speaker 50 may change depending on the time of day. For example, the display control unit 32 changes the color of any of the electronic paper displays 20 depending on the time of day. This allows the user to determine the time of day from the color of the electronic paper displays 20.
[0075] Furthermore, the display on any of the electronic paper displays 20 of the speaker 50 may change in accordance with changes in the volume of the speaker 50. For example, the display control unit 32 changes the brightness of the electronic paper display 20 in accordance with changes in volume. This allows the user to understand the change in volume from the brightness of the electronic paper display 20.
[0076] Furthermore, the display on any of the electronic paper displays 20 in the speaker 50 may change in response to a reminder. For example, a mobile terminal 40 used by a user notifies the speaker 50 of a reminder before the start time of an scheduled event, such as the start of work. In the speaker 50, the display control unit 32 changes the color of any of the electronic paper displays 20 in response to the notified reminder. This allows the user to understand the reminder from the color of the electronic paper displays 20.
[0077] Furthermore, in the first and second embodiments described above, the audio output device was described as being configured to emit sound into the air, such as headphones 10 or speakers 50. However, it is not limited to this. The audio output device may be configured to output audio signals via terminals. For example, the audio output device may be an amplifier, switcher, equalizer, mixer, music player, or electronic musical instrument.
[0078] Furthermore, the above-mentioned audio output device may be configured to be powered from an external source. For example, the headphones 10 and speaker 50 may not have a battery and may be powered via an external interface such as a communication unit 31. The audio output device may also include a power generation unit that generates and supplies power. The power generation unit may be, for example, a solar panel that generates power from sunlight, or a vibration power generation element that generates power from vibration. The audio output device may also obtain power by separating the power from the input audio electrical signal using a filter or the like. The audio output device may also obtain power from ambient light, heat, vibration, or radio waves. For example, the headphones 10 and speaker 50 may achieve energy harvesting in live venues or outdoor festival environments by obtaining power using light, heat, and vibration at live venues or outdoor festivals.
[0079] Furthermore, the above-described audio output device may have a mechanism that allows the electronic paper to be attached and detached. This allows the audio output device to easily replace the electronic paper when it malfunctions. In addition, the audio output device may have an LED to illuminate the electronic paper or a light guide plate to direct light to the electronic paper in order to improve visibility.
[0080] Furthermore, the above-mentioned audio output device may have various sensors and display information on the electronic paper corresponding to the detection results of the various sensors. For example, the audio output device may have a temperature sensor, acquire the temperature of the device using the temperature sensor, and display the temperature on the electronic paper. The audio output device may also display information on the electronic paper corresponding to the music being played or the user's music selection. For example, the audio output device may display recommendations or advertisements on the electronic paper according to other music related to the music being played or music related to the user's preferences estimated from their music selection. The audio output device may also analyze the music being played and display music-related information such as the song title and tempo on the electronic paper.
[0081] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the external device was described as a mobile terminal 40, and in the second embodiment described above, the external device was described as a DJ device 70. However, it is not limited to these. The external device may be an information processing device such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a server. The information processing device may have the functions of a DJ device through software. The information processing device may also acquire and store various information from external services or other devices, and based on the stored information, transmit display setting information indicating the display content of each electronic paper 20 to the headphones 10 or speakers 50. For example, the information processing device may have a function to acquire music information from the DJ device and share it with club listeners and online users in real time, and a function to collect and store club environment data and playlists. Through these functions, the information processing device may acquire music data from the DJ device played by the DJ, or infer music information using music fingerprinting, and transmit the artwork of the music to the headphones 10 or speakers 50. This allows the information processing device to, for example, deliver music artwork to headphones 10 worn by DJs and audience members at a live music venue, and to rewrite the image on the electronic paper.
[0082] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, electronic paper was used as a display for changing the color, design, etc., of the audio output device, but a display other than electronic paper may be used. The display only needs to be one that can be controlled by the display control unit based on display setting information. For example, the display may be a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.
[0083] <Effects of the Embodiment> As described above, the audio output device (headphones 10, speaker 50) comprises an electronic paper 20 and a display control unit 32. The electronic paper 20 is provided on at least a portion of its surface. The display control unit 32 controls the display of the electronic paper 20 based on display setting information. The display setting information is set in cooperation with the application (application 41, application 71) used by the user. As a result, the audio output device can be made more fashionable and visually appealing.
[0084] The electronic paper 20 consists of multiple segments. The display control unit 32 may control the display of the electronic paper 20 for each segment. This allows the audio output device to change the display for each segment, thereby further improving its fashionability and presentation.
[0085] The audio output device may be headphones 10. The electronic paper 20 is provided on at least one of the housings 12a, 12b and the headband 11 that make up the headphones 10. This allows the headphones 10 to have improved fashion and presentation.
[0086] The audio output device may be a speaker 50. The electronic paper 20 is provided on at least one of the front (front 53), side 54, or top 55 of the speaker 50. This allows the speaker 50 to enhance its visual appeal.
[0087] The application may also be an application that configures display settings. This allows users to configure display settings using the application.
[0088] The application may configure display settings in cooperation with other applications. This allows the audio output device to change the display of the electronic paper 20 in cooperation with other applications.
[0089] Other applications may be music playback applications. The application sets display settings information according to the genre or artwork of the music played by the music playback application. This allows the audio output device to change the display of the e-paper 20 according to the genre or artwork of the music being played.
[0090] Display settings information may be configured according to the user's context. This allows the audio output device to change the display of the electronic paper 20 according to the user's context.
[0091] The audio output device may be connected to the DJ equipment 70. Display setting information is set in conjunction with the application 71 of the DJ equipment 70. This allows the audio output device to change the display on the electronic paper 20 in conjunction with the application 71 of the DJ equipment 70.
[0092] The application 71 of the DJ device 70 may transmit display setting information for a design that matches the image of the music being played by the DJ device 70. This allows the audio output device to change the display of the electronic paper 20 to a design that matches the image of the music being played by the DJ device 70.
[0093] The display control unit 32 may change the design of the electronic paper 20 to an emergency design in the event of a user emergency. This allows the audio output device to notify those around the user that an emergency has occurred.
[0094] 10 Headphones 11 Headband 12a, 12b Housing 13a, 13b Arm 14a, 14b Slider holder 15a, 15b Ear pads 20, 20a-20i Electronic paper 21 Mark 30 Battery 31 Communication unit 32 Display control unit 40 Mobile terminal 41, 71 Application 50 Speaker 51 Housing 52a, 52b Speaker unit 53 Front 54 Side 55 Top 60 Power supply 70 DJ equipment N Network
Claims
1. An audio output device comprising: an electronic paper provided on at least a portion of its surface; and a display control unit that controls the display of the electronic paper based on display setting information, wherein the display setting information is set in conjunction with an application used by the user.
2. The audio output device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic paper consists of a plurality of segments, and the display control unit controls the display of the electronic paper for each segment.
3. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the audio output device is a pair of headphones, and the electronic paper is provided on at least one of the housing and the headband that constitute the headphones.
4. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the audio output device is a speaker, and the electronic paper is provided on at least one of the front, side, or top surfaces of the speaker.
5. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the application is an application for setting the display setting information.
6. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the application sets the display setting information in cooperation with other applications.
7. The audio output device according to claim 6, wherein the other application is a music playback application, and the application sets the display setting information according to the genre or artwork of the music played by the music playback application.
8. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display setting information is set according to the user's context.
9. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the audio output device is connected to a DJ device, and the display setting information is set in conjunction with the application of the DJ device.
10. The audio output device according to claim 9, wherein the application of the DJ equipment transmits display setting information with a design that matches the image of the music played by the DJ equipment.
11. The audio output device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the display control unit changes the design of the electronic paper to a design indicating an emergency when the user is in an emergency.
12. When an NFT (Non-Fungible Token) is attached to the design to be displayed on the electronic paper, the display setting information is received from the application when the NFT is authenticated in the application, the audio output device according to claim 1 or 2.
13. A display control program for an audio output device having electronic paper provided on at least a portion of its surface, characterized in that it receives display setting information set in conjunction with an application used by the user, and causes a computer to execute a process to control the display of the electronic paper based on the received display setting information.