Information processing method, information processing system, and program

Abstract

This information processing method comprises: acquiring air blowing strength information relating to the intensity of air being blown by an air blower; acquiring sound data for a first sound; setting, on the basis of the air blowing intensity information, the sound pressure of the first sound lower commensurately with respect to an increase in the intensity of air blowing and the sound pressure of the first sound higher commensurately with respect to a decrease in the intensity of air blowing; and outputting the first sound.

Description

Information processing method, information processing system, and program

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a technique for creating a space close to the natural environment.

[0002] The technique described in Patent Document 1 discloses a pleasant sound device that includes an air conditioning sound estimation unit that estimates the frequency spectrum of air conditioning sound emitted from an air conditioner, a storage unit that stores data of a plurality of masking sounds, a selection unit that selects a masking sound suitable for the frequency spectrum of the air conditioning sound estimated by the air conditioning sound estimation unit from the plurality of masking sounds stored in the storage unit, an output unit that outputs the masking sound, and varies the sound pressure of the air conditioning sound in synchronization with the masking sound.

[0003] The technique described in Patent Document 1 has not been sufficiently studied in terms of creating a space close to the actual natural environment, and there is room for improvement.

[0004] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2018-122677

[0005] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method executed by a computer, and includes: acquiring air blowing intensity information related to the air blowing intensity of a blower; acquiring sound data of a first sound; setting the sound pressure of the first sound to be smaller as the air blowing intensity increases and setting the sound pressure of the first sound to be larger as the air blowing intensity decreases based on the air blowing intensity information; and outputting the first sound.

[0006] According to this configuration, it is possible to create a space close to the actual natural environment.

[0007] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the information processing system. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the fan mode information. Figure 3 is a diagram showing a box plot representing the amplitude difference of the noise level for each fan mode. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the first graph, which is an example of the change in the command value of the inverter control voltage when the first fan mode is performed. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the second graph, which is an example of the change in the command value of the inverter control voltage when the second fan mode is performed. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the third graph, which is an example of the change in the command value of the inverter control voltage when the third fan mode is performed. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the fourth graph, which is an example of the change in the command value of the inverter control voltage when the fourth fan mode is performed. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the processes performed in the information processing system. Figure 9 is a diagram showing the fifth graph, which is a diagram showing the frequency characteristics of the noise generated from the fan. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the sixth graph, which is a diagram showing the frequency characteristics of the first bass tone. Figure 11 is a diagram showing the seventh graph, which is a diagram showing the frequency characteristics of the second bass tone. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the eighth graph, which is a diagram showing the frequency characteristics of the third bass tone. Figure 13 shows the ninth graph representing the frequency characteristics of the fourth bass tone. Figure 14 shows the tenth graph representing the frequency characteristics of the first added tone. Figure 15 shows the eleventh graph representing the frequency characteristics of the second added tone. Figure 16 shows the twelfth graph representing the frequency characteristics of the third added tone. Figure 17 shows the thirteenth graph representing the frequency characteristics of the fourth added tone. Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the airflow control and sound pressure control when the first airflow mode is executed. Figure 19 shows the seventeenth graph representing the relationship between the command value of the inverter control voltage and the noise level. Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the airflow control and sound pressure control when the fourth airflow mode is executed. Figure 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a space controlled by an information processing system. Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an information processing system according to modification (1).

[0008] (Background to this disclosure) The inventors have been studying a technology that provides relaxation and healing effects to users by creating a space that closely resembles an actual natural environment.

[0009] Through extensive research into actual natural environments, the inventors discovered that birds and insects tend to refrain from singing when the wind is strong, and begin singing again when the wind subsides. They also found that when the wind is strong, the sounds of birds and insects are drowned out by the wind and sound faint to humans, while when the wind subsides, the sounds become more easily heard by humans, resulting in the sounds sounding louder to humans.

[0010] Based on the above findings, this disclosure discloses the following technologies.

[0011] (1) An information processing method in one aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method performed by a computer, which includes: acquiring airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; acquiring sound data of a first sound; setting the sound pressure of the first sound to decrease as the airflow strength increases and to increase as the airflow strength decreases, based on the airflow strength information; and outputting the first sound.

[0012] With this configuration, the sound pressure of the first tone is set to decrease as the wind strength increases, and to increase as the wind strength decreases. This makes it possible to create a space that closely resembles a real natural environment, where the first tone is heard fainter when there is a strong wind, and louder when there is a weak wind.

[0013] (2) The information processing method described in (1) above may further include acquiring sound data of a second sound different from the first sound, determining the sound pressure of the second sound based on the airflow strength information, and outputting the second sound.

[0014] With this configuration, the first and second tones are combined and output, creating a space that is closer to a natural environment.

[0015] (3) In the information processing method described in (2) above, determining the sound pressure of the second sound may include setting the sound pressure of the second sound to be larger as the airflow strength increases and setting the sound pressure of the second sound to be smaller as the airflow strength decreases, based on the airflow strength information.

[0016] With this configuration, the sound pressure of the second tone is set to increase as the airflow intensity increases, and to decrease as the airflow intensity decreases, thus masking the noise generated by the fan with the second tone. This improves the user's immersion in a space that closely resembles a natural environment.

[0017] (4) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (3) above, acquiring the airflow strength information may include the first sensor measuring the sound pressure of the noise generated by the operation of the blower.

[0018] This configuration enables the acquisition of airflow strength information in real time using the first sensor, and the control of the sound pressure of the first sound based on the real-time acquired airflow strength information. As a result, even when the airflow strength is unknown, it is possible to create a space that closely resembles a natural environment.

[0019] (5) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (4) above, acquiring the airflow strength information may include the second sensor measuring the wind speed of the airflow generated by the operation of the blower.

[0020] This configuration enables the acquisition of airflow strength information in real time using a second sensor, and the control of the sound pressure of the first sound based on the real-time acquired airflow strength information. As a result, it is possible to create a space that closely resembles a natural environment, even when the airflow strength is unknown.

[0021] (6) In the information processing method described in any one of (1) to (5) above, acquiring the airflow strength information may include acquiring information indicating the magnitude of the control voltage input to the blower in order to control the operation of the blower.

[0022] With this configuration, the sound pressure of the first tone can be controlled based on the magnitude of the control voltage input to the blower. Since the magnitude of the control voltage input to the blower is closely related to the blower's output, i.e., the strength of the airflow, controlling the sound pressure of the first tone based on the magnitude of the control voltage can create a space that closely resembles a natural environment.

[0023] (7) The information processing method described in any one of (1) to (6) above may further include determining at least one of the type of the first sound and a type of second sound different from the first sound based on the airflow strength information, and outputting the first sound and the second sound.

[0024] It is expected that when the airflow intensity is high, the noise generated from the fan will be relatively loud, and when the airflow intensity is low, the noise generated from the fan will be relatively quiet.

[0025] According to the above configuration, based on the airflow strength information, the first sound output is a type of sound that does not cause discomfort to the user even when played at a high sound pressure, or a type of sound that does not cause discomfort to the user even when played at a low sound pressure. This helps to prevent the user's sense of immersion in a space that closely resembles a natural environment from being diminished.

[0026] Furthermore, with the above configuration, based on the airflow strength information, a second sound is output that is of a type that does not cause discomfort to the user even when played at a high sound pressure, or a type that does not cause discomfort to the user even when played at a low sound pressure. This masks the noise generated by the fan and prevents the user's sense of immersion in a space that closely resembles a natural environment from being diminished.

[0027] (8) In the information processing method described in (7) above, determining at least one of the first sound type and the second sound type may include determining, based on the airflow strength information, that as the airflow strength increases, to output a sound with a high sound pressure from among sounds that exist in nature as at least one of the first sound and the second sound.

[0028] This configuration allows for the output of sounds found in nature that do not cause discomfort to the user even when played at high sound pressure, such as the cheerful chirping of birds, as the first sound. Furthermore, it allows for the output of sounds found in nature that do not cause discomfort to the user even when played at low sound pressure, such as the chirping of insects, as the first sound. This makes it possible to create a space that more closely resembles a natural environment and to minimize any loss of the user's sense of immersion in that space.

[0029] Furthermore, with the above configuration, it is possible to output a second sound that is a sound found in nature and does not cause discomfort to the user even when played at high sound pressure, such as the sound of a waterfall. It is also possible to output a second sound that is a sound found in nature and does not cause discomfort to the user even when played at low sound pressure, such as the sound of spring water. In other words, the noise generated by the fan can be masked by sounds that actually exist in the natural environment and do not cause discomfort to the user. This makes it possible to more reliably suppress the loss of the user's sense of immersion in a space that is close to a natural environment.

[0030] (9) The information processing method described in (7) above further includes obtaining amplitude difference information indicating the magnitude of the change in the airflow intensity based on the airflow intensity information, and determining at least one of the first sound type and the second sound type, which may also include determining at least one of the first sound type and the second sound type based on the amplitude difference information.

[0031] This configuration allows for the variation of at least one of the first and second sounds depending on whether the change in airflow intensity is relatively large or relatively small. Therefore, for example, when the change in airflow intensity is relatively large, it is possible to play sounds that do not cause discomfort to the user even with large changes in sound pressure, such as the sound of waves. This helps to prevent the user's sense of immersion in a space that closely resembles a natural environment from being diminished.

[0032] (10) In the information processing method described in any one of (2) to (9) above, the first sound and the second sound may be natural sounds.

[0033] With this configuration, natural sounds are reproduced as the first and second tones, making it possible to create a space that closely resembles a natural environment.

[0034] (11) In the information processing method described in any one of (2) to (10) above, the first sound may be a discontinuous sound and the second sound may be a continuous sound.

[0035] With this configuration, the sound pressure of discontinuous sounds such as bird and insect chirps is controlled based on the fan strength information, making it possible to create a space that closely resembles a natural environment. In addition, continuous sounds such as the sound of a waterfall or waves can continuously mask the noise generated by the fan.

[0036] (12) An information processing system in another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing system including a processor, the processor performing the following: acquiring airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; acquiring sound data of a first sound; setting the sound pressure of the first sound to decrease as the airflow strength increases and to increase as the airflow strength decreases based on the airflow strength information; and outputting the first sound.

[0037] This configuration makes it possible to provide an information processing system that achieves the same effects as the information processing method described above.

[0038] (13) A program in yet another aspect of the present disclosure causes a computer to acquire airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; acquire sound data of a first sound; set the sound pressure of the first sound to decrease as the airflow strength increases and to increase as the airflow strength decreases, based on the airflow strength information; and output the first sound.

[0039] This configuration allows us to provide a program that achieves the same effect as the information processing method described above.

[0040] The present disclosure can also be implemented as an information processing apparatus operated by such a program. It goes without saying that such a computer program can be distributed via a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM or a communication network such as the Internet.

[0041] (14) An information processing method according to still another aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing method executed by a computer, the method comprising: acquiring sound data of a first sound and sound data of a second sound; acquiring airflow intensity information related to the airflow intensity of a blower; determining a first sound pressure for outputting the first sound and a second sound pressure for outputting the second sound based on the airflow intensity information; outputting the first sound at the first sound pressure; and outputting the second sound at the second sound pressure.

[0042] According to this configuration, a space close to the natural environment can be formed by combining the first sound and the second sound.

[0043] Furthermore, the sound pressure of the first sound and the sound pressure of the second sound can be controlled based on the airflow intensity information such that the first sound and the second sound are in harmony. This can prevent the user's sense of immersion in the space close to the natural environment from being impaired.

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that all of the embodiments described below show specific examples of the present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, components, steps, order of steps, and the like shown in the following embodiments are mere examples, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, components not recited in the independent claim representing the highest concept will be described as optional components. Further, the contents of all embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0045] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of an information processing system 1. The information processing system 1 is a system that forms a space reproducing a natural environment. The information processing system 1 includes a blower 2, a speaker 3, and an information processing apparatus 10.

[0046] The blower 2 sends air to a user who uses a space that reproduces a natural environment. The blower 2 includes a motor 2M that drives the blower 2, and an inverter (not shown) that controls the frequency of the motor 2M. The inverter controls the frequency (rotational speed) of the motor 2M in accordance with a command value of a control voltage input from a blower control unit 32 to be described later.

[0047] The blower 2 according to the present embodiment is configured to be capable of executing four types of blower modes: a first blower mode, a second blower mode, a third blower mode, and a fourth blower mode. The intensity of the air blow from the blower 2, that is, the strength of the wind sent to the user, differs depending on the blower mode. The "intensity of air blow" is represented by wind speed. However, this is merely an example, and the "intensity of air blow" may be represented by air blow volume.

[0048] The speaker 3 outputs a base sound (an example of the second sound) and an additional sound (an example of the first sound). The base sound is a sound for masking noise generated from the blower 2. The noise generated from the blower 2 is, for example, the driving sound of the motor 2M, the wind noise generated when the blower 2 sends air, and the like. The additional sound is a sound for reproducing a natural environment.

[0049] Both the base sound and the additional sound according to the present embodiment are natural sounds. The natural sound includes sounds generated from the movement and activity of natural objects.

[0050] Further, the base sound according to the present embodiment is a sound that is generated continuously (continuous sound), and the additional sound is a sound that is not generated continuously (discontinuous sound). Examples of the base sound include the sound of a waterfall, the murmuring sound of a river, the sound of spring water, and the sound of waves. However, these are merely examples. Various sounds other than the above examples can be output from the speaker 3 as the base sound. Examples of the additional sound include bird calls and insect chirps. However, these are merely examples. Various sounds other than the above examples can be output from the speaker 3 as the additional sound.

[0051] The information processing device 10 is an information terminal located in the same space as the blower 2 and speaker 3, or in a different space, and is connected to the blower 2 and speaker 3 in a manner that allows for mutual communication. The information processing device 10 according to this embodiment is configured by a personal computer. However, this is just one example. The information processing device 10 may also be a server (for example, a cloud server) constructed by one or more computers. In addition, the information processing device 10 may be configured by a portable information terminal such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0052] The information processing device 10 includes a memory 20 and a processor 30.

[0053] The memory 20 is composed of storage devices such as RAM and flash memory. The memory 20 includes a fan mode information storage unit 21, a base sound source storage unit 22, and an additional sound source storage unit 23.

[0054] The fan mode information storage unit 21 stores fan mode information 21D, which is information relating to the fan mode. Figure 2 shows an example of the data structure of the fan mode information 21D. As shown in Figure 2, the fan mode information 21D includes the columns "fan mode", "mode description", "amplitude difference of noise level", "average value of noise level", "base sound source", and "additional sound source".

[0055] The "Airflow Mode" column stores an identification ID to identify the airflow mode. In this embodiment, "1" is assigned to the first airflow mode, "2" to the second airflow mode, "3" to the third airflow mode, and "4" to the fourth airflow mode as the identification ID.

[0056] The "Mode Description" column stores information explaining the effect of each fan mode. For example, it might store text explaining that the first fan mode has the effect of "rapidly cooling body temperature with a rapid breeze," or that the fourth fan mode has the effect of "providing relaxation through the fluctuation of the breeze." Note that the "Mode Description" column is not mandatory.

[0057] The "Noise Level Amplitude Difference" column stores the amplitude difference of the noise level for each blower mode (an example of amplitude difference information). Noise level refers to the magnitude (dB) of sound pressure from noises such as the motor 2M's operating noise and wind noise generated when the blower 2 is in operation.

[0058] Figure 3 shows a box plot BP representing the amplitude difference of noise levels for each airflow mode. The amplitude difference of noise levels refers to the difference between the maximum and minimum noise levels. For example, the maximum noise level for the first airflow mode is 61.4 and the minimum is 51.8. Therefore, the difference (amplitude difference) between the maximum and minimum noise levels in the first airflow mode is less than 10 dB. Also, the maximum noise level for the second airflow mode is 58.2 and the minimum is 48.6. Therefore, the amplitude difference for the second airflow mode is less than 10 dB. Also, the maximum noise level for the third airflow mode is 51.8 and the minimum is 46.4. Therefore, the amplitude difference for the third airflow mode is less than 10 dB. Also, the maximum noise level for the fourth airflow mode is 59.3 and the minimum is 46.5. Therefore, the amplitude difference for the fourth airflow mode is 10 dB or more.

[0059] Returning to Figure 2, the "Average Noise Level" column stores the average noise level for each fan mode.

[0060] The "Bass Sound Source" column stores information indicating the type of bass sound source corresponding to each fan mode. For example, the "Bass Sound Source" column stores information indicating that the first fan mode corresponds to the "sound of a waterfall," and the second fan mode corresponds to the "sound of a babbling brook." For example, the "Bass Sound Source" column stores information indicating that the third fan mode corresponds to the "sound of spring water," and the fourth fan mode corresponds to the "sound of waves." In the following, the bass sound corresponding to the first fan mode will be called the first bass sound, the bass sound corresponding to the second fan mode will be called the second bass sound, the bass sound corresponding to the third fan mode will be called the third bass sound, and the bass sound corresponding to the fourth fan mode will be called the fourth bass sound.

[0061] The "Additional Sound Source" column stores information indicating the type of additional sound source corresponding to the fan mode. For example, the "Additional Sound Source" column stores information indicating that the first fan mode corresponds to "lively bird songs," and the second fan mode corresponds to "quiet bird songs." For example, the "Additional Sound Source" column stores information indicating that the third fan mode corresponds to "cricket songs," and the fourth fan mode corresponds to "seagull calls." In the following, the additional sound corresponding to the first fan mode will be called the first additional sound, the additional sound corresponding to the second fan mode will be called the second additional sound, the additional sound corresponding to the third fan mode will be called the third additional sound, and the additional sound corresponding to the fourth fan mode will be called the fourth additional sound.

[0062] Returning to Figure 1, the base sound source storage unit 22 of memory 20 stores the sound source of the bass tone (an example of "second tone sound data"). For example, sound sources of "waterfall sound", "babbling brook sound", "spring water sound", and "wave sound" may be stored. However, these are just examples, and various other sound sources can be stored in the base sound source storage unit 22.

[0063] The additional sound source storage unit 23 of memory 20 stores sound sources for additional sounds (an example of "first sound data"). For example, sound sources for "lively bird calls," "quiet bird calls," "cricket calls," and "seagull calls" may be stored. However, these are just examples, and various other sound sources can be stored in the additional sound source storage unit 23.

[0064] The processor 30 of the information processing device 10 is composed of a central processing unit (CPU) and an image processing unit (GPU), etc. The processor 30 includes a processing unit 31, a blower control unit 32, a base sound source selection unit 33, an additional sound source selection unit 34, a sound pressure control unit 35, a sound signal addition unit 36, and a sound signal control unit 37. The processing units 31 to the sound signal control unit 37 are realized when the processor 30 reads a program stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the memory 20 and executes processing according to the program. However, this is just one example. The processing units 31 to the sound signal control unit 37 may be composed of a dedicated integrated circuit such as an ASIC, and may be distributed and arranged across multiple computers.

[0065] The processing unit 31 acquires airflow mode specification information (an example of airflow intensity information) that indicates the airflow mode to be executed by the blower 2. The processing unit 31 then inputs the airflow mode specification information to the airflow control unit 32, the base sound source selection unit 33, the additional sound source selection unit 34, and the sound pressure control unit 35.

[0066] In this embodiment, the fan mode specification information is directly input by the user utilizing the space controlled by the information processing system 1. Specifically, the fan mode specification information is input by the user operating an input device (not shown) such as a smartphone, remote control, or control panel. The fan mode specification information is transmitted from these input devices to the processing unit 31. However, this is just one example. The processing unit 31 may acquire the fan mode specification information based on schedule information that defines the order in which each fan mode is executed, the duration of each fan mode, etc. Schedule information may be pre-stored in the memory area of ​​the memory 20.

[0067] The airflow control unit 32 controls the airflow intensity of the blower 2 based on the airflow mode specification information received from the processing unit 31. Hereinafter, the control performed by the airflow control unit 32 will be referred to as airflow control. The airflow control unit 32 performs airflow control according to the airflow mode of the blower 2. For example, if the processing unit 31 receives airflow mode specification information indicating that the airflow mode of the blower 2 is the first airflow mode, the airflow control unit 32 performs airflow control according to the first airflow mode.

[0068] Figure 4 shows the first graph GR1. The first graph GR1 shows an example of the progression of the command value of the control voltage that the blower control unit 32 inputs to the inverter of the blower 2 when the first blower mode is performed. In other words, Figure 4 shows an example of the blower control performed by the blower control unit 32 when the first blower mode is performed. The vertical axis of the first graph GR1 shows the command value of the control voltage, and the horizontal axis shows time. The time-series data of the command value shown in the first graph GR1 is stored in the blower mode information storage unit 21. In other words, in this embodiment, information that defines the content of the blower control performed by the blower control unit 32 when the first blower mode is performed is stored in advance in the blower mode information storage unit 21.

[0069] Figure 5 shows the second graph GR2. The second graph GR2 shows an example of the change in the command value of the control voltage that the blower control unit 32 inputs to the inverter of the blower 2 when the second blower mode is performed. The vertical axis of the second graph GR2 shows the command value of the control voltage, and the horizontal axis shows time. The time-series data of the command value shown in the second graph GR2 is stored in the blower mode information storage unit 21. Compared with the first graph GR1, the command value of the control voltage in the second graph GR2 is generally (on average) smaller. Therefore, it can be said that the second blower mode is a mode with lower blower strength (weaker wind) compared to the first blower mode.

[0070] Figure 6 shows the third graph GR3. The third graph GR3 shows an example of the change in the command value of the control voltage that the blower control unit 32 inputs to the inverter of the blower 2 when the third blower mode is performed. The vertical axis of the third graph GR3 shows the command value of the control voltage, and the horizontal axis shows time. The third graph GR3 is stored in the blower mode information storage unit 21. Compared with the second graph GR2, the command value of the control voltage in the third graph GR3 is generally (on average) smaller. Therefore, it can be said that the third blower mode is a mode with lower blower strength (weaker wind) compared to the second blower mode.

[0071] Figure 7 shows the fourth graph GR4. The fourth graph GR4 shows an example of the change in the command value of the control voltage that the blower control unit 32 inputs to the inverter of the blower 2 when the fourth blower mode is performed. The vertical axis of the fourth graph GR4 shows the command value of the control voltage, and the horizontal axis shows time. The fourth graph GR4 is stored in a predetermined storage area of ​​the blower mode information storage unit 21. The difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the command value of the control voltage in the fourth graph GR4 is greater than the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the command value of the control voltage in the first graph GR1. Similarly, the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the command value of the control voltage in the fourth graph GR4 is greater than the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the command value of the control voltage in the second graph GR2 and the third graph GR3, respectively. In other words, the fourth blower mode is a mode in which the amount of change in the intensity of the blower 2 is larger compared to the first blower mode, the second blower mode, and the third blower mode.

[0072] The bass sound source selection unit 33 selects the type of bass sound source to obtain from the bass sound source storage unit 22 based on the fan mode specification information received from the processing unit 31. For example, if the fan mode specification information indicating that the first fan mode will be performed is received, the bass sound source selection unit 33 obtains the first bass sound source from the bass sound source storage unit 22. That is, it obtains the "waterfall sound" sound source.

[0073] The additional sound source selection unit 34 selects the type of additional sound source to obtain from the additional sound source storage unit 23 based on the fan mode specification information received from the processing unit 31. For example, if the fan mode specification information indicating that the first fan mode will be performed is received, the additional sound source selection unit 34 obtains the sound source for the first additional sound from the additional sound source storage unit 23. That is, it obtains the sound source of "lively bird chirping".

[0074] The sound pressure control unit 35 controls the sound pressure (volume) when the bass sound selected by the bass sound source selection unit 33 is output from the speaker 3, and the sound pressure (volume) when the additional sound selected by the additional sound source selection unit 34 is output from the speaker 3. The processing of the sound pressure control unit 35 will be described later.

[0075] The sound signal summing unit 36 ​​generates an added signal by adding the sound signal of the base tone, whose sound pressure is controlled by the sound pressure control unit 35, and the sound signal of the additional tone. The sound signal summing unit 36 ​​inputs the added signal to the sound signal control unit 37.

[0076] The sound signal control unit 37 controls the base tone and additional tone to be output to the speaker 3 based on the summing signal.

[0077] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the process executed in the information processing system 1 according to Embodiment 1. Note that the process shown in step S1 of Figure 8 starts after the processing unit 31 acquires the fan mode specification information. In other words, the process in step S1 of Figure 8 starts after the fan mode to be executed by the fan 2 has been determined.

[0078] Furthermore, when defining a fan mode (creating a fan mode), the flow shown in Figure 8 may be executed. The information on the type of sound source and sound pressure obtained as a result of executing the flow shown in Figure 8 may then be stored in the fan mode information storage unit 21.

[0079] In step S1, the processing unit 31 determines whether the amplitude difference of the noise level is 10 dB or more. More specifically, the processing unit 31 determines whether the amplitude difference of the noise level in the airflow mode specified by the airflow mode specification information is 10 dB or more. As shown in Figure 2, the amplitude difference for the fourth airflow mode is 10 dB or more. Therefore, if the airflow mode specification information specifies the fourth airflow mode, the processing unit 31 determines YES in step S1.

[0080] If the amplitude difference of the noise levels is 10 dB or more (YES in step S1), the process proceeds to step S2. If the amplitude difference of the noise levels is less than 10 dB (NO in step S1), the process proceeds to step S4.

[0081] In step S2, the bass sound source selection unit 33 acquires the sound source for the fourth bass tone from the bass sound source storage unit 22. The fourth bass tone in this embodiment is the sound of waves.

[0082] In step S3, the additional sound source selection unit 34 acquires the sound source for the fourth additional sound from the additional sound source storage unit 23. The fourth additional sound in this embodiment is "seagull's cry".

[0083] If the result in step S1 is NO and the process proceeds to step S4, the processing unit 31 determines whether the average noise level is 55 dB or higher. Specifically, the processing unit 31 determines whether the average noise level in the airflow mode specified by the airflow mode specification information is 55 dB or higher. As shown in Figure 2, the average noise level in the first airflow mode is 55 dB or higher. Therefore, if the airflow mode specification information specifies the first airflow mode, the processing unit 31 determines YES in step S4.

[0084] If the average noise level is 55 dB or higher (YES in step S4), the process proceeds to step S5. If the average noise level is less than 55 dB (NO in step S4), the process proceeds to step S7.

[0085] In step S5, the bass sound source selection unit 33 acquires the sound source for the first bass tone from the bass sound source storage unit 22. The first bass tone in this embodiment is the sound of a waterfall.

[0086] In step S6, the additional sound source selection unit 34 acquires the sound source for the first additional sound from the additional sound source storage unit 23. The first additional sound according to this embodiment is "the sound of a lively bird singing".

[0087] If the result in step S4 is NO and the process proceeds to step S7, the processing unit 31 determines whether the average noise level is 50 dB or higher. Specifically, the processing unit 31 determines whether the average noise level in the airflow mode specified by the airflow mode specification information is 50 dB or higher. As shown in Figure 2, the average noise level for the second airflow mode is 50 dB or higher and less than 55 dB. Therefore, if the airflow mode specification information specifies the second airflow mode, the processing unit 31 determines YES in step S7. Also, as shown in Figure 2, the noise level for the third airflow mode is less than 50 dB. Therefore, if the airflow mode specification information specifies the third airflow mode, the processing unit 31 determines NO in step S7.

[0088] If the average noise level is 50 dB or higher (YES in step S7), the process proceeds to step S8. If the average noise level is less than 50 dB (NO in step S7), the process proceeds to step S10.

[0089] In step S8, the bass sound source selection unit 33 acquires the sound source for the second bass tone. The second bass tone in this embodiment is the "sound of a babbling brook".

[0090] In step S9, the additional sound source selection unit 34 acquires the sound source for the second additional sound. The second additional sound in this embodiment is "a quiet bird song".

[0091] In step S10, the bass sound source selection unit 33 acquires the sound source for the third bass tone. In this embodiment, the third bass tone is the sound of "spring water".

[0092] In step S11, the additional sound source selection unit 34 acquires the sound source for the third additional sound. The third additional sound in this embodiment is the sound of a cricket chirping.

[0093] In step S12, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the content of the sound pressure control when the bass tone is played back by the speaker 3. In step S13, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the content of the sound pressure control when the additional tone is played back by the speaker 3. The processes in steps S12 and S13 will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0094] Figure 9 shows the fifth graph GR5, which represents the frequency characteristics of the noise generated from the blower 2. The vertical axis of the fifth graph GR5 represents the relative sound pressure level (dB), and the horizontal axis represents the frequency (Hz). As shown in Figure 9, the main peaks of the noise generated from the blower 2 are concentrated in the frequency band below 1 kHz.

[0095] Figure 10 shows the sixth graph GR6, which represents the frequency characteristics of the first bass tone (sound of a waterfall). Figure 11 shows the seventh graph GR7, which represents the frequency characteristics of the second bass tone (sound of a babbling brook). Figure 12 shows the eighth graph GR8, which represents the frequency characteristics of the third bass tone (sound of spring water). Figure 13 shows the ninth graph GR9, which represents the frequency characteristics of the fourth bass tone (sound of waves). In each of the graphs from the sixth graph GR6 to the ninth graph GR9, the vertical axis represents the relative sound pressure level (dB), and the horizontal axis represents the frequency (Hz).

[0096] As shown in Figures 10 to 13, bass tones have a sound pressure level above a certain level across a wide frequency range from low to high frequencies, but do not have any prominent peaks. Specifically, bass tones have a relatively high sound pressure level in the range from 50 Hz to 20 kHz.

[0097] Figure 14 shows the 10th graph GR10, which represents the frequency characteristics of the first added sound (lively bird song). Figure 15 shows the 11th graph GR11, which represents the frequency characteristics of the second added sound (quiet bird song). Figure 16 shows the 12th graph GR12, which represents the frequency characteristics of the third added sound (cricket song). Figure 17 shows the 13th graph GR13, which represents the frequency characteristics of the fourth added sound (seagull song). In each of the 10th graph GR10 to the 13th graph GR13, the vertical axis represents the relative sound pressure level (dB), and the horizontal axis represents the frequency (Hz).

[0098] As shown in Figure 14, the main peaks of the first added tone are concentrated in the frequency band above 1 kHz. As shown in Figure 15, the main peaks of the second added tone are concentrated in the frequency band above 1 kHz. As shown in Figure 16, the third added tone has multiple peaks in the frequency band above 1 kHz. As shown in Figure 17, the main peaks of the fourth added tone are concentrated in the frequency band above 500 Hz.

[0099] As shown in Figure 9, the frequency of the noise generated from the blower 2 is mainly below 1 kHz, and as shown in Figures 14 to 17, the frequency of the additional sound is mainly above 500 Hz. Therefore, in order to reproduce an environment close to that of a real natural environment, it is desirable to change the sound pressure of the additional sound according to the sound pressure of the noise from the blower 2. An environment close to that of a real natural environment is, for example, an environment where the sounds of birds or insects are easily heard when the wind is weak, and difficult to hear when the wind is strong.

[0100] Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the airflow control and sound pressure control when the first airflow mode is executed. Specifically, Figure 18 shows graphs 14 (GR14), 15 (GR15), and 16 (GR16). In graphs 14 (GR14), 15 (GR15), and 16 (GR16), the vertical axis represents the command value of the control voltage, and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0101] Graph 14, GR14, shows the change in the command value of the control voltage input from the blower control unit 32 to the inverter of the blower 2 when the first blower mode is executed (hereinafter referred to as the first command value). The time-series data of the command value shown in Graph 14, GR14, is pre-stored in the blower mode information storage unit 21 of the memory 20. Although Graph 14, GR14 has a larger number of samples compared to Graph 1, GR1 in Figure 4, it is essentially the same graph.

[0102] Graph 15, GR15, shows the change in the command value of the control voltage (hereinafter referred to as the second command value) used to control the sound pressure of the first bass tone when outputting the first bass tone to speaker 3.

[0103] The method for determining the second command value is explained below.

[0104] First, the sound pressure control unit 35 calculates the overall average value of the noise level (hereinafter referred to as the first noise level) generated from the blower 2 when the first blowing mode is executed, based on the 14th graph GR14. The overall average value of the first noise level refers to the average value calculated based on all first noise levels during the period from the start to the end of the first blowing mode.

[0105] The sound pressure control unit 35 calculates the overall average value of the first noise level by converting the first command value into a first noise level. Figure 19 shows the 17th graph GR17, which represents the relationship between the command value of the inverter's control voltage and the noise level. The vertical axis of the 17th graph GR17 represents the magnitude of the noise level, and the horizontal axis represents the magnitude of the control voltage. The 17th graph GR17 can be generated by measuring the noise generated from the blower 2 using a sound-collecting microphone while changing the magnitude of the command value of the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2 (while changing the rotation speed of the motor 2M). The sound-collecting microphone is placed at a predetermined distance from the blower 2. The 17th graph GR17 is stored in the memory area of ​​the memory 20. Based on the 17th graph GR17, the sound pressure control unit 35 calculates a conversion formula for converting the first command value into a first noise level. The sound pressure control unit 35 then converts each of the first command values ​​shown in the 14th graph GR14 of Figure 18 into a first noise level using the above conversion formula, thereby determining the transition of the first noise level. Based on the transition of the first noise level, the sound pressure control unit 35 then calculates the overall average value of the first noise level.

[0106] Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the sound pressure of the first bass tone based on the overall average value of the first noise level. In this embodiment, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the sound pressure of the first bass tone so that a sound with a sound pressure equal to or greater than the average value of the first noise level is continuously output from the speaker 3. For example, suppose the overall average value of the first noise level is 57 dB. In this case, the sound pressure control unit 35 sets the sound pressure of the first bass tone so that a waterfall sound with a sound pressure equal to or greater than 57 dB is output from the speaker 3.

[0107] The sound pressure control unit 35 then determines a second command value based on the sound pressure of the first base tone. Specifically, the second command value is determined so that a sound with a sound pressure equal to or greater than the first noise level is continuously output from the speaker 3. In the example shown in graph 15 GR15 of Figure 18, the sound pressure control unit 35 fixes the second command value at approximately 3V. In this way, when the first blowing mode is performed, the noise generated from the blower 2 can be masked by the first base tone (waterfall sound) with a sound pressure equal to or greater than the first noise level.

[0108] Graph 16, GR16, shows the change in the command value of the control voltage input to speaker 3 when the first additional sound is output to speaker 3 (hereinafter referred to as the third command value).

[0109] The method for determining the third command value is explained below.

[0110] The sound pressure control unit 35 determines the third command value by inverting the first command value and calculating a moving average. Specifically, the sound pressure control unit 35 first determines the maximum value of the first command value (for example, 5V). Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the inverted value at each point in time by subtracting the first command value at each point in time shown in the 14th graph GR14 from the maximum value of the first command value. Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 converts the inverted value of the first command value at each point in time into a noise level using a conversion formula based on the 17th graph GR17 in Figure 19. Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 calculates a moving average of these noise levels. Then, based on the moving average of the noise level at each point in time, the third command value at each point in time is determined. In this way, as shown in the 14th graph GR14 and the 16th graph GR16, it is possible to decrease the third command value as the first command value increases (as the airflow intensity increases), and to increase the third command value as the first command value decreases (as the airflow intensity decreases). In other words, an environment is created in which the first additional sound (lively bird chirping) sounds quieter as the wind sent from the blower 2 to the user becomes stronger, and the first additional sound sounds louder as the wind sent from the blower 2 to the user becomes weaker.

[0111] Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the airflow control and sound pressure control when the fourth airflow mode is executed. Specifically, Figure 20 shows graphs 18 GR18, 19 GR19, and 20 GR20. In graphs 18 GR18, 19 GR19, and 20 GR20, the vertical axis represents the command value of the control voltage, and the horizontal axis represents time.

[0112] Graph 18 GR18 shows the change in the command value of the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2 when the fourth blowing mode is executed (hereinafter referred to as the 11th command value). Graph 18 GR18 is pre-stored in the blowing mode information storage unit 21 of the memory 20. Although the number of samples in graph 18 GR18 is increased compared to graph 4 GR4 in Figure 7, it is essentially the same graph.

[0113] As shown in Graph 18 GR18, in the fourth blowing mode, the amount of change in the command value of the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2 is large. In other words, the fourth mode is a blowing mode in which there is a large fluctuation between when a strong wind is being sent and when a weak wind is being sent. For this reason, it is expected that the fluctuation in the sound pressure of the noise generated from the blower 2 will also be large in the fourth blowing mode.

[0114] Graph 19, GR19, shows the change in the command value of the control voltage used to control the sound pressure of the fourth bass tone when outputting the fourth bass tone from speaker 3 (hereinafter referred to as the 12th command value).

[0115] The method for determining the 12th command value is described below.

[0116] The sound pressure control unit 35 determines the 12th command value by calculating the moving average of the 11th command value.

[0117] Specifically, the sound pressure control unit 35 first grasps the trend of the 11th command value when the 4th airflow mode is performed, based on the 18th graph GR18.

[0118] Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 calculates a moving average of the noise level generated from the blower 2 when the fourth blowing mode is performed (hereinafter referred to as the fourth noise level) based on the change in the 11th command value and the conversion formula calculated based on the 17th graph GR17 shown in Figure 19. Then, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the sound pressure of the fourth bass tone at each point in time so that the fourth bass tone with a sound pressure equal to or greater than the moving average value of the fourth noise level at each point in time shown in the 19th graph GR19 is output from the speaker 3.

[0119] The sound pressure control unit 35 then determines the command value of the control voltage at each point in time as the 12th command value, based on the sound pressure of the fourth bass tone at each point in time. In other words, it changes the sound pressure of the fourth bass tone in accordance with the change in the sound pressure of the noise generated from the blower 2. This makes it possible to output a fourth bass tone from the speaker 3 that has a sound pressure equal to or greater than the sound pressure of the noise generated from the blower 2. This control is useful when a blower mode is executed in which the amount of change in the command value of the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2 is large, and the amount of change in the sound pressure of the noise generated from the blower 2 is large, such as in the fourth blower mode. This makes it possible to effectively mask the noise generated from the blower 2.

[0120] In this embodiment, "wave sound" is selected as the fourth bass tone. That is, a type of sound that does not cause discomfort to the user even if the sound pressure changes according to the strength of the airflow is adopted as the fourth bass tone. Therefore, by the sound pressure control unit 35 performing the control shown in Graph 19 GR19, an environment is created in which the wave sound is heard louder when the wind blows strongly and quieter when the wind blows weakly. Thus, discomfort to the user is suppressed. As a result, it is achieved to mask the noise of the blower 2 while suppressing any loss of user immersion.

[0121] Graph 20 GR20 shows the change in the command value of the control voltage (hereinafter referred to as the 13th command value) used to control the sound pressure of the 4th additional sound when outputting the 4th additional sound from speaker 3. The sound pressure control unit 35 converts the inverted value of the 11th command value at each point in time into a noise level using a conversion formula based on graph 17 GR17 in Figure 19, similar to when determining the 3rd command value. Subsequently, the sound pressure control unit 35 calculates a moving average of these noise levels. Then, based on the moving average of the noise level at each point in time, the 13th command value at each point in time is determined. In this way, it is achieved that the 13th command value decreases as the 11th command value increases, and the 13th command value increases as the 11th command value decreases. In other words, it is achieved that the 4th additional sound (seagull cries) sounds fainter as the wind sent from the blower 2 to the user becomes stronger, and the 4th additional sound sounds louder as the wind sent from the blower 2 to the user becomes weaker.

[0122] The airflow control and sound pressure control when the second and third airflow modes are in operation are the same as when the first airflow mode is in operation, so a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0123] Next, we will explain an example of using Information Processing System 1.

[0124] Figure 21 shows an example of a space controlled by the information processing system 1 (hereinafter referred to as the target space SP).

[0125] The target space SP is formed inside the housing 115 of an equipment unit 110 that constitutes, for example, a sauna booth, a relaxation room, etc.

[0126] Specifically, the equipment unit 110 comprises a housing 115, a plurality of blowers 2, a plurality of ducts 5 corresponding to each of the plurality of blowers 2, a plurality of chambers 4, and a plurality of speakers 3.

[0127] The housing 115 includes side walls, a ceiling, and a floor that demarcate the target space SP. In the example shown in Figure 21, the housing 115 has a rectangular shape. However, this is just one example, and the shape of the housing 115 can be changed as appropriate. An air intake port 112 and an exhaust port 113 are formed in the side walls of the housing 115.

[0128] The blower 2 of the equipment unit 110 generates an airflow that guides the air taken in from the air intake 112 to the speaker 3 via the duct 5 and chamber 4. The blower 2 is connected to the information processing device 10 so that it can receive commands from the blower control unit 32.

[0129] Duct 5 is a ventilation pipe for transporting the air taken in by the blower 2 to the chamber 4.

[0130] Chamber 4 connects duct 5 and speaker 3.

[0131] The speaker 3 of the equipment unit 110 includes an opening (not shown) from which it emits both sound and air supplied by the blower 2. That is, the speaker 3 emits air supplied by the blower 2 from its opening and simultaneously radiates sound waves from its opening. The speaker 3 is connected to the information processing device 10 so as to be able to receive commands from the sound signal control unit 37.

[0132] The airflow control unit 32 sends airflow with controlled intensity to the target space SP, and the sound pressure control unit 35 outputs a base tone and additional tone, each with controlled sound pressure, to the target space SP. This makes the target space SP a space that closely resembles an actual natural environment. As a result, users of the target space SP can be given a relaxing and healing effect.

[0133] Note that the target space SP is merely one example of a space controlled by the information processing system 1. The information processing system 1 can control various spaces other than the target space SP shown in Figure 21.

[0134] According to the information processing system 1 described above, based on the command value of the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2 (an example of blower strength information), the sound pressure control unit 35 sets the sound pressure of the additional sound to decrease as the blower strength increases, and sets the sound pressure of the additional sound to increase as the blower strength decreases.

[0135] In this way, it is possible to create an environment that closely resembles a real natural environment, where the sounds of birds or insects are easily heard when the wind is light, and less easily heard when the wind is strong.

[0136] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 10 to 13, a bass tone with a sound pressure level above a certain level is output from the speaker 3 across a wide bandwidth from low to high frequencies. This makes it possible to mask the noise generated from the blower 2 across a wide bandwidth from low to high frequencies.

[0137] Furthermore, in this embodiment, an additional sound with major peaks concentrated in the frequency band of 500 Hz or higher, as shown in Figures 14 to 17, is output from speaker 3. It should be noted that the frequency range of sounds that humans find pleasant is approximately 500 Hz or higher. Therefore, by outputting an additional sound with the frequency characteristics shown in Figures 14 to 17, it is expected that a relaxing effect can be provided to the user of the speaker in the target space.

[0138] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the speaker 3 outputs sounds in combinations that do not cause discomfort to the user. Specifically, the speaker 3 outputs sounds such as a combination of "waterfall sound" and "lively bird song," a combination of "babbling brook sound" and "quiet bird song," a combination of "spring water sound" and "cricket chirping," and a combination of "wave sound" and "seagull cry." These sounds are output in a harmonized state through the sound pressure control of the sound pressure control unit 35, thereby creating a space that closely resembles a natural environment.

[0139] Furthermore, in this embodiment, based on the fan mode specification information (an example of fan strength information), as the average noise level (an example of fan strength) increases, sounds with high sound pressure from sounds present in nature are output as at least one of the additional sound and the base sound. Specifically, in the first fan mode, where the average noise level is high, sounds with high sound pressure, such as "the sound of a waterfall" or "the chirping of energetic birds," are output as the base sound and the additional sound. In the second mode, where the average noise level is lower than that of the first mode, sounds with relatively low sound pressure, such as "the sound of a babbling brook" or "the chirping of quiet birds," are output as the base sound and the additional sound. In the third mode, where the average noise level is lower than that of the second mode, sounds with relatively low sound pressure, such as "the sound of spring water" or "the chirping of crickets," are output as the base sound and the additional sound.

[0140] In this way, by changing the type of base sound and additional sound according to the intensity of the airflow, i.e., the level of noise, it is possible to create a space that is even closer to a natural environment and to suppress the loss of the user's sense of immersion in the aforementioned space.

[0141] (Variations) The following variations of this disclosure may be adopted.

[0142] (1) In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the first graph GR1, the second graph GR2, the third graph GR3, and the fourth graph GR4 are stored in the blower mode information storage unit 21. An example was also described in which the command value of the control voltage input to the blower 2 in each of the first blower mode, second blower mode, third blower mode, and fourth blower mode is known to the sound pressure control unit 35. In other words, an example was described in which the blower strength in each of the first blower mode, second blower mode, third blower mode, and fourth blower mode is known. However, this is just one example. The blower 2 may execute a blower mode that is different from any of the first to fourth blower modes described above, and in which the command value of the control voltage input to the blower 2 is not measured. In other words, the blower 2 may execute a blower mode in which the blower strength is unknown to the sound pressure control unit 35. In this case, the information processing system 1 may measure the sound pressure of the noise generated from the blower 2 in real time using a sensor. Based on the measurement results from the sensor (an example of blower strength information), the information processing system 1 may control at least one of the following: the type of base sound, the sound pressure of the base sound, the type of additional sound, and the sound pressure of the additional sound. Hereinafter, control performed based on noise measured in real time will be referred to as real-time control.

[0143] Figure 22 shows the configuration of the information processing system 1A according to this modified example.

[0144] As shown in Figure 22, the information processing system 1A includes a blower 2A. The blower 2A includes a control unit 25A that controls the operation of the blower 2A. That is, the blower 2A operates autonomously, rather than operating based on commands input from the blower control unit 32 of the information processing device 10. However, this is just one example. The blower 2A may be connected to the information processing device 10 so as to be able to receive commands from the blower control unit 32 and operate based on those commands.

[0145] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 22, the information processing system 1A includes a sensor 100. The sensor 100 is, for example, a sound-collecting microphone (an example of a first sensor). The sensor 100 transmits the measurement results to the information processing device 10.

[0146] The processor 30A includes a noise level acquisition unit 38. The noise level acquisition unit 38 acquires the measurement results from the sensor 100.

[0147] In this modified example, the processing unit 31 generates time-series data based on measurement data generated by the sensor 100 measuring the sound pressure of the noise from the blower 2A for a predetermined period (for example, 1 minute). For example, the processing unit 31 generates time-series data showing the frequency characteristics of the sound pressure (noise level) of the noise. Subsequently, the processing unit 31 obtains the amplitude difference and the average value of the noise level by analyzing the time-series data. Then, the processor 30A determines the type of base sound and additional sound by executing the processes from step S1 to step S11 of the flowchart shown in Figure 8 based on the amplitude difference and the average value of the noise level.

[0148] Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the content of the control of the sound pressure of the base sound (step S12) and the content of the control of the sound pressure of the additional sound (step S13). When performing the processing in steps S12 and S13, the processor 30A may, if necessary, use the 17th graph GR17 shown in Figure 19 to convert the noise level into a command value for the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2A. In this way, even when a blowing mode is performed in which the blowing intensity is unknown, the type of base sound, the sound pressure of the base sound, the type of additional sound, and the sound pressure of the additional sound can be appropriately set. In other words, a space close to a natural environment can be created.

[0149] Furthermore, the processing unit 31 in this modified version may periodically update the time-series data. The processing unit 31 may also determine whether the similarity between the previously created time-series data and the currently created time-series data is equal to or greater than a predetermined standard value. If the similarity is less than the predetermined standard value, that is, if the blower 2A starts a new, unknown blowing mode, the processing unit 31 may reset the type of base sound, the sound pressure of the base sound, the type of additional sound, and the sound pressure of the additional sound.

[0150] Furthermore, in this modified configuration, the sound pressure control unit 35 may determine the sound pressure of the base sound source and the sound pressure of the additional sound source each time the noise level acquisition unit 38 acquires the sound pressure of the noise from the blower 2A. In other words, the sound pressure of the base sound and the sound pressure of the additional sound may be determined in real time based on measurement data acquired in real time.

[0151] In this modified example, an example in which the sensor 100 is composed of a sound-collecting microphone has been described, but the sensor 100 may also be composed of, for example, a wind speed sensor (an example of a second sensor). In this case, the sensor 100 measures the wind speed of the airflow generated by the blower 2A. In this case, the noise level acquisition unit 38 may also estimate the command value of the control voltage input to the inverter of the blower 2A based on the wind speed. The noise level acquisition unit 38 may estimate the command value of the control voltage by using, for example, a predetermined conversion formula for converting wind speed to a command value of the control voltage, which is stored in advance in the memory 20.

[0152] Furthermore, the configuration and measurement method of the sensor 100 are not particularly limited, as long as the sensor is capable of measuring information related to the airflow intensity of the blower 2A in real time.

[0153] (2) In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the blower 2 is configured to perform four types of blowing modes: a first blowing mode, a second blowing mode, a third blowing mode, and a fourth blowing mode. However, this is just one example. The blower 2 may be configured to perform more than four types of blowing modes, or fewer than four types. For example, the blower 2 may be configured to perform only one of the first blowing mode, second blowing mode, third blowing mode, and fourth blowing mode described above.

[0154] (3) In Embodiment 1, an example was described in which the sound pressure control unit 35 converts the inverted value of the first command value at each time point into a noise level using a conversion formula based on the 17th graph GR17 in Figure 19 in order to determine the third command value, but this is just one example. The sound pressure control unit 35 may determine the third command value by the method shown below.

[0155] The sound pressure control unit 35 first determines the maximum value of the first command value (for example, 5V). Next, the sound pressure control unit 35 determines the inversion value at each time point by subtracting the first command value at each time point shown in the 14th graph GR14 from the maximum value of the first command value. Subsequently, the sound pressure control unit 35 calculates the moving average of the inversion values ​​at each time point based on these inversion values. Then, the moving average of the inversion values ​​at each time point is determined as the third command value at each time point. With this method as well, it is possible to decrease the third command value as the first command value increases (as the airflow intensity increases), and to increase the third command value as the first command value decreases (as the airflow intensity decreases).

[0156] Furthermore, when the fourth airflow mode is performed, the sound pressure control unit 35 may determine the 13th command value using the method described in this modified example.

[0157] (4) The expression “at least one of X and Y” in this specification may be interpreted as “X,” “Y,” or “X and Y.” X and Y represent words or phrases.

[0158] This disclosure is useful in creating spaces that closely resemble natural environments.

Claims

1. An information processing method performed by a computer, comprising: acquiring airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; acquiring sound data of a first sound; setting the sound pressure of the first sound to decrease as the airflow strength increases and to increase as the airflow strength decreases, based on the airflow strength information; and outputting the first sound.

2. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising: acquiring sound data of a second sound different from the first sound; determining the sound pressure of the second sound based on the airflow strength information; and outputting the second sound.

3. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein determining the sound pressure of the second sound includes setting the sound pressure of the second sound to be larger as the airflow strength increases and setting the sound pressure of the second sound to be smaller as the airflow strength decreases, based on the airflow strength information.

4. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein acquiring the airflow strength information includes the first sensor measuring the sound pressure of the noise generated by the operation of the blower.

5. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein acquiring the airflow strength information includes the second sensor measuring the wind speed of the airflow generated by the operation of the blower.

6. The information processing method according to claim 1, wherein acquiring the airflow strength information includes acquiring information indicating the magnitude of the control voltage input to the blower in order to control the operation of the blower.

7. The information processing method according to claim 1, further comprising: determining at least one of the type of the first sound and a type of second sound different from the first sound based on the airflow strength information; and outputting the first sound and the second sound.

8. The information processing method according to claim 7, wherein determining at least one of the first type of sound and the second type of sound includes, based on the airflow strength information, determining that as the airflow strength increases, sounds with high sound pressure from among sounds present in nature should be output as at least one of the first and second sounds.

9. The information processing method according to claim 7, further comprising obtaining amplitude difference information indicating the magnitude of the change in the airflow intensity based on the airflow intensity information, and determining at least one of the first sound type and the second sound type based on the amplitude difference information.

10. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein the first sound and the second sound are natural sounds.

11. The information processing method according to claim 2, wherein the first sound is a discontinuous sound and the second sound is a continuous sound.

12. An information processing system including a processor, wherein the processor performs the following actions: acquiring airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; acquiring sound data of a first sound; setting the sound pressure of the first sound to decrease as the airflow strength increases and to increase as the airflow strength decreases, based on the airflow strength information; and outputting the first sound.

13. A program that causes a computer to perform the following actions: acquire airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; acquire sound data of a first sound; based on the airflow strength information, set the sound pressure of the first sound to decrease as the airflow strength increases and set the sound pressure of the first sound to increase as the airflow strength decreases; and output the first sound.

14. An information processing method performed by a computer, comprising: acquiring sound data for a first sound and sound data for a second sound; acquiring airflow strength information relating to the airflow strength of a blower; determining a first sound pressure when outputting the first sound and a second sound pressure when outputting the second sound based on the airflow strength information; outputting the first sound at the first sound pressure; and outputting the second sound at the second sound pressure.

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