WO2007032389A1

WO2007032389A1 - Sound volume control device, sound volume control method, sound volume control program, and computer-readable recording medium

Info

Publication number: WO2007032389A1
Application number: PCT/JP2006/318156
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kouichi Ono
Original assignee: Pioneer Corporation
Priority date: 2005-09-14
Filing date: 2006-09-13
Publication date: 2007-03-22
Also published as: JP4572238B2; JPWO2007032389A1

Abstract

A sound volume control device (100) includes a position detection unit (101), a location detection unit (102), a distance calculation unit (103), and an output sound volume control unit (104). The position detection unit (101) detects a position of a moving body. The location detection unit (102) detects a guide location on a guiding path of the mobbing body. The distance calculation unit (103) calculates a distance between the guide point and the moving body according to the position information detected by the position detection unit (101) and the guide location detected by the location detection unit (102). The output sound volume control unit (104) reduces the output sound volume of a sound output device when the moving body approaches the guide location. Moreover, when the distance between the position of the moving body which has passed the guide location and the guide location to be passed next is below a threshold value, the output sound volume control unit (104) continues to reduce the output sound volume of the sound output device until the moving body passes the guide location to be passed next.

Description

Specification

Volume control device, volume control method, volume control program, and computer-readable recording medium

Technical field

The present invention relates to a volume control device that controls volume, a volume control method, a volume control program, and a computer-readable recording medium.

Background art

[0002] As a device for guiding the vehicle from the departure point to the destination point, there is Nabigeshiyon device mounted on a vehicle (hereinafter, vehicle Nabigeshiyon the device.) _0-vehicle navigation Chillon device object from a starting point Information on the guidance route to the point is displayed, and a sound such as a guidance sound is output at a predetermined point corresponding to the guidance point such as an intersection or railroad crossing on the guidance route to guide the vehicle. On the other hand, inside the vehicle, not only the above-mentioned guidance sound but also the sound of TV and radio broadcasts can be obtained by the function of the in-vehicle navigation device or the audio device separately mounted on the vehicle (hereinafter referred to as the in-vehicle audio device). Audio of content such as CD and DVD is output.

[0003] In recent years, when the guidance sound related to route guidance is output, if the sound other than the guidance sound, such as the sound of a television or radio broadcast, or the content of a CD or DVD, overlaps with the guidance sound, Mute the sound of In addition, a navigation device has been proposed that guides the route so that the driver can hear the guidance sound appropriately (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-65590

Disclosure of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] However, in the above-described conventional technology, if there are continuous points for outputting guidance sounds related to route guidance, the mute and output of sounds other than the guidance sounds are frequently repeated, and driving is performed. An example is a problem that causes discomfort to the person. In addition, the point where the guidance sound is output continuously is generally special for the driver, such as checking the surroundings. As an example, there is a problem that the output of sound other than the guidance sound hinders the driver from being alerted.

Means for solving the problem

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the volume control device according to the invention of claim 1 includes a position detection means for detecting the position of the moving body, and a point for detecting a guide point on the guidance route. A detection means; a calculation means for calculating a distance between the position of the moving body and the guide point; and a control means for controlling an output volume of an audio output device mounted on the moving body. The means reduces the output sound volume of the audio output device when the moving body approaches the guide point, and the position of the moving body when the moving body passes the guide point and the guidance to be passed next. When the distance to the point is less than the threshold value, the reduction of the output volume of the audio output device is continued until the next guide point to be passed is passed.

[0007] In addition, the volume control device according to claim 2 includes a position detection unit that detects the position of the moving body, a point detection unit that detects a guide point on the guidance route, and a calculation that calculates a distance between the guide points. Means and a control means for controlling the output volume of the sound output device mounted on the mobile body, the control means of the voice output device when the mobile body approaches the guide point. When the mobile body passes the guide point and the distance between the guide point that has passed and the guide point that should pass next is less than the threshold value, the audio output is reduced. It is characterized by continuing to reduce the output volume of the device.

[0008] The volume control method according to the invention of claim 4 is a volume control method for controlling an output volume of an audio output device mounted on a moving body, wherein the moving body is guided on a guidance route. The first step of reducing the output volume of the audio output device when approaching a point, and the distance between the position of the mobile body when the mobile body passes the guide point and the next guide point to pass A second step of calculating the sound output, and a third step of continuing to reduce the output volume of the audio output device until the next passing point is passed when the distance is less than a threshold value; It is characterized by including.

[0009] Further, the volume control method according to the invention of claim 5 is an audio output mounted on a moving body. A volume control method for controlling an output volume of a force device, wherein the mobile body is configured to reduce the output volume of the audio output device when the mobile body approaches a guide point on a guidance route. A second step of calculating a distance between the passed guide point and the next guide point to be passed when passing through the guide point, and when the distance is less than a threshold, the audio output device And a third step of continuing to reduce the output volume.

[0010] Further, a volume control program according to the invention of claim 6 causes a computer to execute the volume control method according to claim 4 or 5.

[0011] A computer-readable recording medium according to the invention of claim 7 is

The volume control program described in 6 is recorded.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a volume control device that works on the present embodiment.

[FIG. 2] FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing the contents of processing of the volume control device according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a navigation device that works well with the present embodiment.

[FIG. 4-1] FIG. 4-1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the control of the output volume on the vehicle guidance route, which is effective in the present embodiment.

[FIG. 4-2] FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of control of the output volume on the vehicle guidance route including a plurality of continuous guide points that are useful in the present embodiment.

[FIG. 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the contents of the processing of the navigation device which is effective in the present embodiment.

[FIG. 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a fade-out process of the output volume that is useful in the present embodiment.

[FIG. 7] FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an example of fade-in processing of the output volume that is useful in the present embodiment.

[FIG. 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of fade-in and Z-out processing of output volume that is useful in this embodiment. It is a chart. Explanation of symbols

[0013] 100 volume control device

101 Position detector

102 point detector

103 Distance calculator

104 Output volume control

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of a volume control device, a volume control method, a volume control program, and a computer-readable recording medium according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0015] (Embodiment)

(Functional configuration of volume control device)

The functional configuration of the volume control apparatus according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a volume control device that works according to the present embodiment.

In FIG. 1, a volume control apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes a position detection unit 101, a point detection unit 102, a distance calculation unit 103, and an output volume control unit 104. .

[0017] The position detection unit 101 detects the position of the moving object. The position of the moving body is, for example, the position of the moving body on which the sound volume control device 100 that is effective in the present embodiment is mounted. The position is detected by, for example, receiving radio waves from a GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite and determining the geometric position between the GPS satellite and the moving object.

[0018] The point detection unit 102 detects a guide point on the guide route of the mobile object. The guidance point is, for example, a starting point of guidance on the guidance route of the moving body, and may be an intersection, a crossing, a facility, or the like.

The distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between the guide point and the mobile object based on the position of the mobile object detected by the position detection unit 101 and the guide point detected by the ground inspection output unit 102. Put out. For example, the distance between the guide point and the moving body may be calculated by constantly updating the coordinate force between the position of the guide point and the moving body. Further, the moving distance of the moving body in a predetermined time may be calculated by detecting the position of the moving body every predetermined time. Further, the distance calculation unit 103 may be configured to calculate the distance between the guide points.

[0020] Based on the distance between the guide point calculated by the distance calculation unit 103 and the moving body, the output volume control unit 104 reduces the output volume of an audio output device (not shown) when the moving body approaches the guide point. Let Furthermore, if the distance between the position of the mobile body when the mobile body passes the guide point and the next guide point to which the mobile body should pass is less than the threshold value, the next guide point to be passed is moved. Continue to reduce the output volume of the audio output device until the body passes. In addition, when the moving body passes through the guidance point, the output volume of the audio output device is reduced when the distance between the passing guidance point and the next guidance point to which the moving body should pass is less than the threshold value. May be continued. The output volume control may be configured to reduce the output volume of sound other than the guidance sound at the point where the guidance sound for the guidance point is output.

[0021] Further, when the moving distance of the moving object at a predetermined time calculated by the distance calculation unit 103 is less than a predetermined value, the output volume is not continued without reducing the volume. May be restored.

[0022] (Contents of processing of volume control device 100)

Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the contents of the processing of the volume control device 100 that is useful for the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the contents of the processing of the sound volume control device which is useful for the present embodiment. In this embodiment, the mobile unit is equipped with a navigation device that performs navigation processing by setting a guide route that is a route to guide from the starting point to the destination point, and the volume control device 100 is equipped with the navigation device. It is connected to Yon device and can exchange information. In the flowchart of FIG. 2, first, the volume control device 100 determines whether or not the navigation device has a guidance route set (step S 201).

[0023] In step S201, the volume control device 100 waits for the guidance route to be set when the guidance route is not set in the navigation device (step S201: No). When the guide route is set (step S201: Yes), the position detection unit 101 subsequently detects the position of the moving body (step S202). Note that the position detection unit 101 may detect the position by acquiring the position information of the moving body held by the navigation device! /. At the same time, the point detection unit 102 also obtains information on the guidance route for the navigation device force, and detects a guidance point on the guidance route of the moving body (step S203). Guidance point detection is, for example, detecting a point of origin such as an intersection, a railroad crossing, or a facility. When a mobile body passes in front of the guidance point, a guidance sound may be output to guide the route.

[0024] Next, the distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between the guide point and the mobile object based on the position of the mobile object detected in step S202 and the guide point detected in step S203. It is determined whether or not the force is close to the guide point (step S204). The calculation of the distance between the guide point and the moving body may be, for example, a configuration in which the distance is calculated from the coordinates of the guide point and the position of the moving body or may be constantly updated.

[0025] Then, when the moving body approaches the guide point and approaches (step S204:

In Yes, the output volume control unit 104 reduces the output volume of the audio output device (step S205), and then the volume control device 100 determines whether or not the mobile object has passed the guide point. (Step S206). Here, when the mobile object waits for passing through the guide point and passes through (step S206: Yes), the distance calculation unit 103 calculates the distance between the mobile object and the next guide point to pass. (Step S207). In this flowchart, in step S207, the distance between the moving body and the next guidance point that the moving body should pass through is calculated. It may be configured to calculate the distance to the point.

[0026] Then, by comparing the distance calculated in step S207 with a predetermined threshold value, volume control apparatus 100 determines whether the calculated distance is greater than or equal to the threshold value (step S). 208). In step S208, if the distance is less than the threshold value (step S208: No), the output volume is continuously reduced, and the process returns to step S206 to repeat the process. If the distance is greater than or equal to the threshold value (step S208: Yes), the output volume control unit 104 restores the output volume of the audio output device (not shown) (step S209), and The process ends.

[0027] In this flowchart, the distance between the guide point and the moving body is calculated, but the position of the moving body may be detected every predetermined time to calculate the moving distance of the moving body at the predetermined time. Good. Then, the output sound volume control unit 104 may perform control so that the output sound volume is restored without continuing to reduce the output sound volume when the moving distance of the moving body at a predetermined time is less than a certain value. . In addition, the output volume control unit 104 should reduce the output volume again when the moving distance of the moving object at a predetermined time changes from a certain value to a certain value.

[0028] As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to reduce the output volume of the audio output device by calculating the distance between the guide point and the moving body on the guidance route. Therefore, when the guidance points are continuous on the guidance route, the guidance sound is output without repeating the reduction and return of the output volume, so that discomfort due to frequent volume changes can be prevented. it can.

[0029] In addition, since the output sound volume is continuously reduced at the continuous guide points and the guide sound is output, it is possible to prompt the user to be appropriately alerted and to drive safely. In addition, since the moving distance of the moving object can be controlled to return the reduced output volume by comparing it with a certain value, even if the guide points are continuous, the user can Audio can be viewed and appropriate volume control can be achieved.

Example

[0030] Examples of the present invention will be described below. In the present embodiment, for example, an example in which the volume control device of the present invention is implemented by a navigation device mounted on a moving body such as a vehicle (including a four-wheeled vehicle and a two-wheeled vehicle) will be described.

[0031] (Hardware configuration of navigation device)

With reference to FIG. 3, the hardware configuration of the navigation apparatus that is useful in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a navigation apparatus that works on the present embodiment.

In FIG. 3, the navigation device 300 is mounted on a moving body such as a vehicle, and includes a control unit 301, a user operation unit 302, a display unit 303, a position acquisition unit 304, and a recording medium 305. A recording medium decoding unit 306, an audio output unit 307, a communication unit 308, a route search unit 309, a route guidance unit 310, an audio generation unit 311, a speaker 312 and a distance calculation unit 313. It is composed.

The control unit 301 controls the entire navigation device 300. The control unit 301 includes, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that executes predetermined arithmetic processing, a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores various control programs, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that functions as a work area for the CPU. ) And so on.

The control unit 301 performs map guidance based on the information on the current position acquired by the position acquisition unit 304 and the map information obtained from the recording medium 305 via the recording medium decoding unit 306 at the time of route guidance. The driving force at which position above is calculated, and the calculation result is output to the display unit 303. In addition, the control unit 301 inputs / outputs information on route guidance to / from the route search unit 309, the route guidance unit 310, and the voice generation unit 311, and displays information obtained as a result of the route guidance. And output to the audio output unit 307.

[0035] Further, the control unit 301 compares the distance between the guide point and the vehicle calculated by the distance calculation unit 313 with a predetermined distance, and the audio of the guidance sound output from the audio output unit 307 and the television set. Controls the output volume of audio other than guide sounds, such as radio broadcast audio and CD and DVD content audio. For example, when the distance between the guide point and the vehicle is less than a predetermined distance, the output volume is controlled by assuming that the guide sound corresponding to the guide point is approaching the output point of the TV or radio broadcast. Mute the output volume of audio other than internal sounds such as CD and DVD contents from the preset volume set by the user.

[0036] Further, the control unit 301 compares the travel distance of the vehicle at a predetermined interval calculated by the distance calculation unit 313 with a predetermined threshold value, and outputs a guidance sound output from the voice output unit 307. You may control the output volume of audio other than guidance sounds, such as audio, audio from TV and radio broadcasting, and audio from content such as CDs and DVDs. Specifically, if the moving distance of the vehicle is less than the predetermined threshold! /, The value is sufficient for traveling due to traffic jams or the like even if the distance to the guide point is less than the predetermined distance. Without continuing mute as a necessary route The muted sound may be restored to the output volume before muting.

[0037] The output volume can be controlled by gradually reducing the output volume when the set volume force is muted. When the mute is set to the set volume, the output volume is gradually increased. (Fade in) may be controlled. In this embodiment, the sound other than the guide sound is muted. However, the sound may be attenuated to a predetermined sound volume level without interfering with the guide sound.

[0038] The user operation unit 302 acquires information input by the user by operating operation means such as a remote control, a switch, and a touch panel, and outputs the acquired information to the control unit 301.

Display unit 303 includes, for example, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), a TFT liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a plasma display, and the like. Specifically, the display unit 303 can be configured by, for example, a video IZF (interface) or a video display device connected to the video IZF. Specifically, the video IZF is, for example, a graphic controller that controls the entire display device, a buffer memory such as VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily stores image information that can be displayed immediately, and a graphics controller. It is composed of a control IC that controls the display of the display device based on the image information output from the device. Then, the display unit 303 displays traffic information, map information, information on route guidance, content related to video output from the control unit 301, and various other information in accordance with control related to the output of the control unit 301.

[0040] The position acquisition unit 304 includes a GPS receiver and various sensor forces such as a vehicle speed sensor, an angular velocity sensor, and an acceleration sensor, and acquires information on the current position of the moving object (current position of the navigation device 300). The GPS receiver receives the radio wave from the GPS satellite and determines the geometric position with the GPS satellite. GPS means Global Positioning

It is an abbreviation for System, and is a system that accurately determines the position on the ground by receiving radio waves from four or more satellites. The GPS receiver is composed of an antenna for receiving radio waves from GPS satellites, a tuner for demodulating the received radio waves, and an arithmetic circuit for calculating the current position based on the demodulated information.

[0041] Various control programs and various information are recorded on the recording medium 305 in a state readable by a computer. This recording medium 305 is, for example, HD (Hard Disk) or D It can be realized by VD (Digital Versatile Disk), CD (Compact Disk), and memory card. Note that the recording medium 305 may accept writing of information by the recording medium decoding unit 306 and record the written information in a nonvolatile manner.

[0042] In addition, map information used for route search and route guidance is recorded in the recording medium 305. The map information recorded in the recording medium 305 includes background data representing features (features) such as buildings, rivers, and the ground surface, and road shape data representing the shape of the road. It is drawn in 2D or 3D on the display screen. When the navigation device 300 is guiding a route, the map information read from the recording medium 305 by the recording medium decoding unit 306 and the mark indicating the position of the moving body acquired by the position acquisition unit 304 are displayed on the display unit 303. Will be displayed.

[0043] In addition, the recording medium 305 records content such as video and music, and audio information of content such as video and music is output from the speaker 312 via the audio output unit 307. .

In the present embodiment, the force for recording map information, content, and the like on the recording medium 305 is not limited to this. Map information, content, and the like may be recorded on a server outside the navigation apparatus 300. In that case, the navigation device 300 acquires map information and content from the Sano via the network, for example, through the communication unit 308. The acquired information is stored in RAM or the like.

The recording medium decoding unit 306 controls reading of information on the recording medium 305 and writing of Z. For example, when HD is used as the recording medium 305, the recording medium decoding unit 306 is an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0046] The audio output unit 307 outputs audio such as internal sound, video, music, and the like by controlling output to the connected speaker 312. There may be one speaker 312 or a plurality of speakers 312. The audio output unit 307 includes, for example, a DZA converter that performs DZA conversion of audio digital information, an amplifier that amplifies the audio analog signal output from the DZA converter, an AZD converter that performs AZD conversion of the audio analog signal, You can configure. [0047] The communication unit 308 obtains various types of information from the outside. For example, the communication unit 308 is an FM multiplex tuner, a VICS (registered trademark) Z beacon receiver, a wireless communication device and other communication devices, and other communication via a communication medium such as a mobile phone, PHS, communication card and wireless LAN. Communicate with the device. Alternatively, it may be a device that can communicate by radio broadcast radio waves, television broadcast radio waves, or satellite broadcasts.

[0048] Information acquired by the communication unit 308 includes traffic information such as traffic congestion and traffic regulations that are also distributed by the road traffic information communication system center, traffic information acquired by operators in their own way, and other information on the Internet. Public data and content. For example, the communication unit 308 may request traffic information or content from a server storing traffic information and content nationwide via the network and obtain the requested information. In addition, a configuration may be used in which a signal related to video or audio is received from radio waves such as radio television broadcasts or satellite broadcasts.

[0049] The route search unit 309 uses the map information acquired from the recording medium 305 via the recording medium decoding unit 306, the traffic information acquired via the communication unit 308, etc. Search for the optimal route. Here, the optimal route is the route that best matches the user's request.

[0050] The route guidance unit 310 is obtained from the optimum route information searched by the route search unit 309, the position information of the moving body acquired by the position acquisition unit 304, and the recording medium 305 via the recording medium decoding unit 306. Based on the obtained map information, route guidance information for guiding the user to the destination point is generated. The route guidance information generated at this time may be information that considers the traffic jam information received by the communication unit 308. Further, the route guidance information may include a guide point such as an intersection, a railroad crossing, a facility, or the like serving as a starting point of guidance on the guidance route, or a point that outputs a guidance sound corresponding to the guidance point. Then, the route guidance information generated by the route guidance unit 310 is output to the display unit 303 via the control unit 301.

[0051] The sound generation unit 311 generates information of various sounds such as a guide sound. That is, based on the route guidance information generated by the route guidance unit 310, the virtual sound source corresponding to the guidance point is set and the voice guidance information is generated, and this is output via the control unit 301 as a voice. Output to part 307.

[0052] The distance calculation unit 313 converts the current position of the vehicle (the current position of the navigation device 300) acquired by the position acquisition unit 304 and the route guidance information including the guidance point generated by the route guidance unit 310. Based on this, the distance between the guide point and the vehicle on the guidance route is calculated. Further, the distance calculation unit 313 calculates the moving distance of the vehicle at a predetermined interval based on the information on the current position of the vehicle acquired by the position acquisition unit 304. Then, the calculated distance between the guide point and the vehicle or the moving distance of the vehicle is output to the control unit 301.

Note that the position information acquisition unit 101, which is a functional configuration of the volume control device 100 according to the embodiment, is provided by the position acquisition unit 304, and the guidance point detection unit 102 is provided by the route search unit 309 and the route guidance unit 310. The distance calculation unit 103 realizes its function by the distance calculation unit 313, and the output sound volume control unit 104 by the control unit 301, respectively.

[0054] (Explanation regarding control of output volume on guidance route)

Next, the control of the output volume on the vehicle guidance route according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 41 and FIG. FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the control of the output volume on the vehicle guidance route that is useful in this embodiment.

In FIG. 41, the vehicle 400 travels along the guidance route 405 from the departure point 401 to the destination point 402. In this figure, the guide route 405 is via a guide point 403. In addition, at a guidance sound output point 404 that outputs a guidance sound corresponding to the guidance point 403, for example, a guidance sound “This intersection is right,” is output in the vehicle 400.

[0056] In addition, the output volume of audio other than guidance sounds such as audio of TV and radio broadcasts and audio of content such as CDs and DVDs is set to a set volume interval 411 set by the user on the guide route 405. , A fade-out section 412, a mute section 413, and a fade-in section 414.

[0057] The set sound volume section 411 is a section in which the vehicle 400 approaches the guide point 403 within a predetermined distance (Dl (m)) and a section that is separated by Dl (m) or more. Dl (m) is sufficiently distant from the guide point 4003, and the output volume of sound other than the guide sound is a preset volume set by the user in advance. [0058] The fade-out section 412 is a section in which the output volume of sound other than the guide sound is faded out, and is within Dl (m) with respect to the vehicle 400 force S guide point 403, and with respect to the guide point 403, This is the interval until it approaches within the predetermined distance D2 (m). D1 and D2 are distances that can be set in advance, and D1> D2, and when the vehicle 400 reaches Dl (m) up to the guide point 403, the navigation device 300 fades out the output volume of audio other than the guide sound. Let

[0059] The mute section 413 is a section in which the output volume of sound other than the guide sound is muted, and is a section within D2 (m) from the guide point 403. In the explanation of this figure, the navigation device 300 is other than the guide sound in the section where the distance between the vehicle 400 and the guide point 403 is D2 (m) on the side approaching and moving away from the guide point 403. Mutes the output volume of the sound. The distance between the side approaching the guide point 403 and the side moving away from it need not be D2 (m). For example, the distance closer to the guide point 403 may be set so that the sound other than the guide sound is muted when the guide sound is output at the guide sound output point 404 corresponding to the guide point 403. In addition, the distance away from the guide point 403 may be set so that the vehicle 400 can return to the mute immediately after passing through the guide point 403 so that the surrounding safety can be confirmed. ,.

[0060] The fade-in section 414 is a section in which the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound is faded in, and is equal to or greater than D2 (m) with respect to the vehicle 400 force S guide point, 403, and the guide point, 403. On the other hand, the interval is within Dl (m). In fade-in section 414, after passing through vehicle 400 force mute section 413 and moving away from guide point 403 by more than D2 (m), navigation device 300 fades in the output volume of audio other than the guide sound. To resume mute. D3 (m) between D2 (m) and Dl (m) is a distance for determining the continuity of the guide point 403, and details will be described later in FIG.

FIG. 42 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the control of the output volume on the vehicle guidance route including a plurality of continuous guide points that are useful in the present embodiment. In FIG. 42, the same reference numerals as those in FIG. 41 have almost the same configuration, and therefore, only the parts different from the description in FIG.

In FIG. 4-2, the guide route 405 passes through a plurality of continuous guide points 403. Communicating The continued guide point 403 is, for example, one in which the adjacent guide point 403 is at a distance less than a predetermined distance D3 (m). In addition, at the guidance sound output point 404 that outputs the guidance sound corresponding to each guidance point 403, for example, “Further intersection, right direction” or “Further intersection, left direction” in the vehicle 400, for example. Is output.

In this figure, the mute section 413 is a section within D2 (m) from the guide point 403 or a section between adjacent guide points 403 less than D3 (m). For example, even if the vehicle 400 travels more than D2 (m) after passing through the guide point 403, the navigation device is considered in consideration of the next guide point 403. 300 continues muting without fading in any sound other than the guidance sound. For details, the force navigation device 300 described in FIG. 5 and subsequent figures is used due to traffic jams and other reasons even if it is attempted to continue muting between adjacent guide points 403 below D3 (m). If the travel time to the next guide point 403 is sufficient, it may be configured to fade in sound other than the guide sound.

[0064] (Contents of processing of navigation device 300)

Next, the contents of the processing of the navigation device 300 that is useful in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the contents of the processing of the navigation device that works on the present embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 5, first, the navigation device 300 determines whether or not it has received a route guidance instruction (step S501). For example, the route guidance may be performed by the user operating the user operation unit 302 and inputting a predetermined item such as the destination point 402.

[0065] In step S501, after waiting for a route guidance instruction to be accepted (step S501: Yes), navigation device 300 starts route guidance for vehicle 400 along guidance route 405. Then, the distance calculation unit 313 calculates the distance to the next right / left turn point. In the description of this figure, the guide point 403 is described as a right / left turn point, but it may be a starting point for guidance such as a crossing or a facility.

[0066] Then, the control unit 301 determines whether the distance calculated by the distance calculation unit 313 to the next right / left turn point is equal to or less than Dl (m) (step S502). Here, when the distance to the next turning point is less than Dl (m), if it is less than Dl (m) In step S502: Yes), the control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to perform a fade-out process on the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound (step S503). Details of the fade-out process will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0067] Next, the control unit 301 determines whether or not the vehicle 400 has passed the right / left turn point (step S504). If the vehicle has not passed the right / left turn point (step S504: No), the process returns to step S503 and repeats the fade-out process. When the vehicle passes the right / left turn point (step S504: Yes), the control unit 301 determines whether the distance to the next right / left turn point is equal to or greater than D3 (m) (step S505). In this flowchart, the distance between the vehicle 400 and the next right / left turn point is calculated, and the right / left turn point through which the 1S vehicle 400 has passed is determined. A configuration may be used in which the distance is determined by calculating the distance to the right or left turn point that passes.

[0068] In step S505, when the distance to the next right / left turn point is equal to or greater than D3 (m) (step S505: Yes), the control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to control the guidance sound. The output volume of the other audio is faded in (step S506). Details of the fade-in process will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0069] Next, the control unit 301 determines whether or not the distance from the right / left turn point that has passed is equal to or greater than Dl (m) (step S507). If the distance from the right or left turn point that has passed is less than Dl (m) (step S507: No), the process returns to step S506 and the fade-in process is repeated. Then, when the distance of the right / left turn point force that has passed exceeds Dl (m) (step S507: Yes), the control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to output audio other than the guide sound. The output volume is reset to the set volume set by the user (step S508). Then, a series of processing ends.

[0070] If the distance to the next right / left turn point is less than D3 (m) in step S505 (step S505: No), the control unit 301 uses the voice output unit 307. Is controlled to perform fade-in and Z-out processing on the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound (step S509). Details of the fade-in Z-out process will be described later with reference to FIG.

Then, control unit 301 determines whether or not vehicle 400 has passed a right / left turn point (step S510). If it has not passed the turning point (Step S510: No), Step S5 Return to 09 and repeat the fade-in and Z-out process. If the vehicle has passed the right / left turn point (step S510: Yes), the process returns to step S505, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0072] Next, the content of the fade-out process of the output volume will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of fade-out processing of the output volume that is useful in the present embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 6, first, the control unit 301 determines whether the distance between the vehicle position calculated by the distance calculation unit 313 and the next right / left turn point is greater than or equal to D2 (m). (Step S601).

[0073] In step S601, when the distance between the vehicle position and the next right / left turn point is less than D2 (m) (step S601: No), the vehicle 400 is traveling in the mute section 413, and the The control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to mute the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound (step S602), and ends the series of processes.

[0074] In step S601, if the distance between the vehicle position and the next right / left turn point is equal to or greater than D2 (m) (step S601: Yes), the control unit 301 continues to run per unit time. It is determined whether the line distance is greater than or equal to the threshold value (step S603). The travel distance per unit time may be calculated by, for example, the distance calculation unit 313 calculating the travel distance of the vehicle 400 at a predetermined interval based on the current position information of the vehicle 400 acquired by the position acquisition unit 304. Good. For example, the threshold may be configured so that it can be set in advance. Compared to the distance traveled per unit time and the threshold, the vehicle 400 is traveling to the right or left turn point for reasons such as traffic jams. Can be judged.

[0075] In step S603, if the travel distance per unit time is equal to or greater than the value (step S603: Yes), control unit 301 determines whether or not the output volume of sound other than the guide sound is muted. (Step S604). If the output volume is muted (step S604: Yes), the series of processing ends. If the output volume is not muted (step S604: No), the control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to attenuate the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound (step S607), and a series of processing. Exit. For example, the output volume may be attenuated by a certain amount, or may be faded out by repeating the process according to this flowchart until the mute section 413 is entered. [0076] In step S603, if the mileage per unit time is less than the value (step S603: No), the control unit 301 determines that the output volume of sound other than the guide sound is It is determined whether or not the volume is set in advance by the user (step S605). If the mileage per unit time is less than the threshold (step S603: No), for example, when the vehicle 400 travels slowly in the fade-out section 412 due to traffic jams, etc. Because the running time is strong enough, the vehicle will run without fading out the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound.

In step S605, when the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound is the set volume (step S605: Yes), the series of processes is ended as it is. If the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound is not the set volume (step S605: No), the control unit 301 controls the sound output unit 307 to increase the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound ( Step S606), a series of processing ends. The increase in the output volume may be, for example, a configuration in which a certain amount is increased, or a configuration in which the processing according to this flowchart is continuously repeated until the mute section 413 is entered.

Next, the contents of the output volume fade-in process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the fade-in process of the output volume that is useful in this embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 7, first, the control unit 301 determines whether or not the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound is a set volume set in advance by the user (step S701).

[0079] In step S701, when the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound is the set volume

In (Step S701: Yes), the series of processing ends. In addition, when the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound is weak at the set volume (step S701: No), the control unit 301 determines the position of the vehicle from the right / left turn point that is calculated by the distance calculation unit 313. It is determined whether or not the distance up to is D2 (m) or more (step S702).

[0080] In step S702, if the distance from the right / left turn point that passed the vehicle to the vehicle position is equal to or greater than D2 (m) (step S702: Yes), the control unit 301 uses the voice output unit 307. Is controlled to increase the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound (step S704), and the series of processes is terminated. The output volume can be increased by, for example, setting the volume level to be increased by a certain amount. A configuration in which the process according to this flowchart is continuously repeated until the time 411 is entered may be used.

[0081] In step S702, if the distance from the right / left turn point that has passed to the vehicle position is less than D2 (m) (step S702: No), the control unit 301 continues to drive per unit time. It is determined whether the distance is greater than or equal to a threshold value (step S703). Here, when the mileage per unit time is equal to or greater than the threshold (step S703: Yes), for example, when the vehicle 400 travels in the mute section 413 without traffic jams, the series continues. End the process.

[0082] In step S703, if the mileage per unit time is less than the value (step S703: No), for example, due to traffic jams, mute section 413 is set to 400 S When traveling slowly, the travel time is sufficiently strong until the fade-in section 414. Therefore, even in the mute section 413, the control unit 301 controls the voice output unit 307 to output voices other than the guide sound. The output volume is increased (step S704), and the series of processing ends.

Next, the contents of the output volume fade-in Z-out process will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of fade-in Z-out processing of the output volume that is useful in this embodiment. In the flowchart of FIG. 8, first, the control unit 301 determines whether or not it is close to the next right / left turn point (step S801).

[0084] In step S801, when approaching the next right / left turn point (step S801:

If Yes, the control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to mute the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound (step S802), and ends the series of processes. In this flowchart, the approach to the next right / left turn point is determined, but when the approach to the next guide sound output point 404 is determined and approached, the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound May be muted.

[0085] In step S801, when the next turn point is not approached (step S801: No), the control unit 301 determines whether or not the travel distance per unit time is greater than or equal to a threshold value (step S801). S803). Here, when the travel distance per unit time is equal to or greater than the threshold (step S803: Yes), the control unit 301 determines whether the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound is mute (step S803: Yes). S804). If the output volume level is Step S804: Yes) returns to Step S801 and repeats the process.

[0086] In step S804, if the output volume is not muted (step S804: No), control unit 301 controls audio output unit 307 to attenuate the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound (step S805). ), And returns to step S801 to repeat the process.

[0087] In step S803, if the mileage per unit time is less than the value (step S803: No), the control unit 301 has an output volume of sound other than the guidance sound, It is determined whether or not the volume is set in advance by the user (step S806). When the mileage per unit time is less than the threshold (Step S803: No), for example, when the vehicle 400 travels slowly in the mute section 413 due to traffic jams, etc. Because it takes enough time to travel, it will run without continuing to mute the output volume of audio other than the guidance sound.

In step S806, if the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound is the set volume (step S806: Yes), the process returns to step S801 and the process is repeated. If the output volume of the sound other than the guidance sound is not the set volume (step S806: No), the control unit 301 controls the audio output unit 307 to increase the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound. (Step S8 07), the process returns to Step S801 and is repeated.

[0089] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the output volume of the audio output device by calculating the distance between the guide point and the moving body on the guidance route. Therefore, when the guide points are continuously on the guidance route, a guidance sound that repeatedly decreases and returns the output volume is output, so that discomfort due to frequent volume changes can be prevented.

[0090] In addition, since the output sound volume is continuously reduced at the continuous guidance points and the guidance sound is output, it is possible to prompt the user to be appropriately alerted and to achieve safe driving. In addition, since the moving distance of the moving body can be controlled to return the reduced output volume by comparing it with a certain value, even if the guide points are continuous, the user can Audio can be viewed and appropriate volume control can be achieved.

[0091] As described above, according to the navigation device 300, when the guide points 403 are continuous, the output volume of sound other than the guide sound is frequently muted or output. Since the guidance sound is output without returning, the user is not discomforted by frequent volume changes.

[0092] Further, by continuing mute at the continuous guide points 403, the driver can accurately check the surrounding situation and can drive safely. Since the fade-in process or the feed-out process is performed, the output volume of the sound other than the guide sound can be muted without a sharp volume change. Therefore, the driver can drive without being surprised.

In addition, since the output volume of sound other than the guidance sound is muted at the guidance sound output point 404, the driver of the vehicle 400 can accurately grasp the guidance sound. Therefore, it is possible to reach the destination point 402 along the reliable guide route 405.

[0094] Also, even in the mute section 413, it is possible to determine whether the mileage force is also congested and cancel the mute. Therefore, it is intended to provide a sound other than the guide sound that is not muted for a long time. It is out.

[0095] In this embodiment, the output volume of sound other than the guidance sound is muted. If the driver can confirm the guidance sound without muting, a predetermined volume level is sufficient. It may be configured to attenuate to the bell. By setting the volume level to a predetermined level, the driver can check the guidance sound, and the passenger can view the sound other than the guidance sound even at the guidance sound output point 404.

[0096] Further, when the output volume of sound other than the guidance sound is muted, a configuration may be adopted in which the mute location is stored in a memory (not shown) or the like and the continuation force of the mute location is restored. By restoring the continuation force at the mute location, the passenger can watch the audio other than the guidance sound without any missing parts.

Further, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which a fade-in process or a fade-out process is performed on the output volume of sound other than the guidance sound may be muted at once. By muting all at once, sound other than the guide sound can be output to the vicinity of the guide sound output point 404, and the passenger can view the sound other than the guide sound for a longer time.

[0098] It should be noted that the volume control method described in the present embodiment is to execute a prepared program on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. It can be realized more. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed when the recording medium force is also read by the computer. The program may be a transmission medium that can be distributed through a network such as the Internet.

Claims

The scope of the claims

[1] position detecting means for detecting the position of the moving body;

Point detecting means for detecting a guide point on the guide route;

Calculating means for calculating a distance between the position of the moving body and the guide point;

Control means for controlling the output volume of the audio output device mounted on the mobile body, and

The control means includes

When the moving body approaches the guide point, the output volume of the audio output device is reduced,

When the distance between the position of the mobile body when the mobile body passes the guide point and the next guide point to be passed is less than a threshold value, until the next guide point to pass is passed. A volume control device that continues to reduce the output volume of the audio output device.

[2] position detecting means for detecting the position of the moving body;

Point detecting means for detecting a guide point on the guide route;

A calculation means for calculating the distance between the guide points;

The control means includes

When the mobile body passes through the guide point, if the distance between the passed guide point and the next guide point to pass is less than a threshold value, the output volume of the audio output device continues to be reduced. A volume control device characterized in that

[3] The control means restores the output volume of the audio output device when the travel distance of the moving body per predetermined time is less than a predetermined value while the output volume of the audio output device is being reduced. The sound volume control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein

[4] This is a volume control method that controls the output volume of the audio output device mounted on the mobile object. About

A first step of reducing an output volume of the audio output device when the moving body approaches a guide point on a guidance route;

A second step of calculating a distance between the position of the mobile body when the mobile body passes the guide point and the guide point to be passed next;

A third step of continuing to reduce the output volume of the audio output device until the next passing point is passed when the distance is less than a threshold;

The volume control method characterized by including.

[5] A volume control method for controlling the output volume of an audio output device mounted on a mobile body.

A second step of calculating a distance between the passed guide point and the next guide point to be passed when the mobile body passes the guide point;

A third step of continuing to reduce the output volume of the audio output device when the distance is less than a threshold;

The volume control method characterized by including.

[6] A volume control program that causes a computer to execute the volume control method according to claim 4 or 5.

[7] A computer-readable recording medium on which the volume control program according to claim 6 is recorded.