DE4207447A1 - Digitised audio signal electronic recording and playback unit - digitises, compresses and stores input from microphone to solid state memory, and plays back in analogue form to loudspeaker. - Google Patents

Abstract

The miniaturised unit for the recording and playback of audio signals uses digital signal circuit techniques. The compact unit is microprocessor based and allows spoken messages to be entered via a microphone (12) that connects with an A/D converter. The generated digital signals are transmitted via an interlock circuit that requires a PIN number which is entered via a keyboard (0-9). The digitised data is subjected to a data compression process before being entered into memory. When accessed, with the aid of the PIN number entry, the data is expanded and converted into analogue form for output by the loudspeaker (14). Speech or music may be handled. USE/ADVANTAGE - Solid state digital signal recording. Controlled access. No moving parts, so no sensitivity to vibrations. More compact unit, and easier access to desired part of stored information.

Description

The recording of texts which are typewriter-like keyboards have been on for years electronic storage is common and very common. The devices also have the advantage that with the wide spread of Personal computers can be connected via an interface NEN, so that records made on the go at home or in the office can be transferred directly to the computer.

On the other hand, there is one in the field of voice recording Not yet stored on non-moving information carriers enforced. Dictation machines mostly use tape cassettes as sound carriers set, which were reduced in size, but still need a mechanical drive.

The object of the invention is to use modern technology that have proven themselves in other areas, a Ver drive and to describe device concepts that become digital Record and play information.  

The advantages are obvious: no moving parts and therefore no sensitivity to vibrations, much lower Dimensions and more convenient access to any part of the abge stored information.

By combining and using the latest technologies, a such device according to the invention not only extremely lei sustainable, but extremely small and cheap.

From the outset, emphasis is placed on this according to the invention such device not only for digital storage of entered information, e.g. B. via alpha-numeric Keypads or via the output interface of a PC or a scanner or other digital information, but also an acoustic analog input with digital / analog Converter (D / A converter) for general use to arrange.

It is therefore proposed according to the invention in such a Then connect the device to the analog signal input To provide "analog / digital" converter (A / D converter), the program miert from a microprocessor ("MP") to the memory of the Informa tion carrier transfers the data digitally and that also for Output of the stored information on a "digital / analog" wall (D / A converter) the digital values as analog signals to the Dispenses. Direct output is also according to the invention of the digitally stored values to a digitally working output besystem, e.g. B. an LC display provided. For a simple and reliable working with such a recording device essential measures are described, especially in their Combination enables the successful use of such a device lichen.  

It is first proposed according to the invention a bit counter ler to provide in the device, which the "used" bits counts and "numbered" so to speak and in the event of an interruption that respective active, d. H. Save the addressed bit or its number chert, and this exactly, or at least approximately exactly and repro inducible, on a display or with LEDs.

The function of the bit counter corresponds to the tape counter one Tape cassette and allows you to find or find an In formation.

The bit counter has a second task. Do you want z. B. Interrupt a dictation, then according to the MP one "Standby program" started, which starts the recording process interrupts and saves the corresponding bit number. As a result, the device is in a standby position, and if a dictation is continued, the recording can be made at the Insert the saved bit number.

Since one with the still relatively expensive storage capacity nes non-volatile memory, e.g. B. EEPROM must be used sparingly, is also recommended according to the invention, an automatically working "Pause switching" to be provided in the MP, which if there is no Input signals with little delay (e.g. after 1 sec) the recording on the memory interrupts and only again starts when input signals arrive. Since the electro niche storage starts immediately, go through such a pau circuit no information is lost, as is the case with tape cassette ten occurs where the belt drive must first be started.

In order to save storage capacity, the invention is also used proposed a system for data compression before storage a system for data ex use pansion. There are already numerous procedures, such Build circuits, and it can for an invention the most suitable system.  

Misuse of data is a feared evil, and it will therefore provided according to the invention, the unauthorized access to the processed data by a "Personal Identification Number" To prevent (PIN). Such a circuit, for which it is also numerous solutions can be found in the simplest Case consist of a 4- to 6-digit number, which only the Device owner is known and before commissioning the device must be entered.

To take full advantage of electronic storage use, the invention ensures that the control elements are designed accordingly. So u. a. suggested to provide a "listen" button which is a subroutine in the MP "Listen" starts the recording of the information under breaks the bit counter, saves the bit counter resets a certain number of bits and from that point on edited the text or records up to the bit number, at which the interruption was initiated. You can then either who press this button again and listen to the text again or by pressing the "Recording" button or by entering another command to continue recording.

If you want to listen to a larger part of a dictation, it will proposed according to the invention to provide a "reset" button, which has functions similar to the "Listen" button, however resets the bit counter by a larger number of bits so that a longer range of information is output. It is provided that by pressing this button several times each resetting the bit counter by a corresponding bit number is initiated.

To quickly get back to the beginning of a recording, it is also recommended to provide a "reset" button that will reset the Resets the bit counter to the beginning of the recording.  

It is possible, according to the invention, at the beginning of each new dictations by means of a "marker" key admit, which gives the possibility, when pressing the "Reset" - Key not to jump to "0" of the bit counter, but each time to the previous "start" mark signal. Are several Notes saved, so you can start each individual information Mark mation and query directly.

When using memories that are in the voltage-free state are not volatile, d. H. their stored information keep (such as EEPROM memory), it is possible to invent one The device according to the invention is even more flexible and easy to use by the information carrier in the form of a "card" from Makes the device separable without a battery for data backup need.

Such an information carrier could form according to the invention and dimensions of chip cards, as they have as Telefonkar are already widely used. For such cards exist already mass production, so that such an information store cher extremely low manufacturing costs can be expected.

At present such chip cards are connected to the input and Output device over gold-plated contacts to a sufficient quality to achieve. According to the invention, however, it is also proposed a contactless version, which will predominantly be used in the future will be used to provide. At least the data transfer between the device and the information carrier according to the invention contactless, d. H. e.g. B. with inductive, capacitive or opto- electronic means. With the close coupling between the card and the device can do this easily.

With a corresponding compatible design of the device, un under certain conditions even such telephone chip cards as Information carriers are used.  

This can be facilitated according to the invention in that Card in addition to the memories a microprocessor is also arranged which processes access to the stored data, such as this is also common with telephone chip cards. In the device a corresponding communication program is provided in the MP to initiate the data transfer with the information carrier and perform.

Such a combination also allows thanks to the Invention according to the input of analog and digital data the input of a Code number in the microprocessor of the information carrier, which Access to the memory of the after entering this code number Releases information carrier.

This means a double backup: first as a PIN for the commissioning of the device and as a code number, which in the Card is saved and access to the stored data locks even if the card is removed.

As miniaturization progresses, the present invention the use of the existing components for the integration recommended by other functions, such as

• - Date and clock display
• - Telephone or address directory
• - Memo notes
• - Paging and other.

Fig. 1 shows the basic structure of a device according to the inven tion, which is suitable for processing analog and digital signals.

The 4 input options are shown on the left, namely
"Analog IN" with a direct connection to a built-in microphone "Micro IN",
"DIG IN" with a direct connection to the "DIG Keys" keypad.

From the inputs, the signals first reach an Si gnald discriminator "A / D Erkg", which the entered data under and recognizes them either to an analog / digital converter Forwards "A / D" or directly to the "PIN-LOCK" locking circuit, which first checks whether a PIN exists and whether the input knows may or may not be routed. Only if you enter egg correctly ner PIN this circuit opens the data path to the next building group that performs a data compression "DAT Komp" to the Reduce the number of bits to be saved.

From there, the compressed data is sent to a cipher circuit "Chiffr", where you can use one of the many known procedures encrypted.

In the next stage, they are processed in a bit counter "BIT Count" for the bit allocation in the memory. The bit counter gets from the microprocessor "MP" the appropriate information and commands for a perfect data exchange between the microprocessor "MP" of the device and the microprocessor "MP 1" of the chip card ( 39 ) with its EEPROM memories is required.

In Fig. 1, the data exchange between the device and the information carrier is shown schematically in a contactless manner via 2 induction loops, the loop ( 41 ) being provided for data transfer in one direction and the loop ( 42 ) for data transfer in the opposite direction. Lines for contacts may be provided for the power supply of the microprocessor "MP 1" of the chip card ( 39 ).

This arrangement, for example, is only for better understanding selected the invention. Any other transmission method for the Da ttransfer and power supply can be equivalent fiction according to be provided.

When reading out the data via the "MP 1" microprocessor from the "EEPROM" data memory, they first reach the microprocessor "MP" of the device via the inductive loop ( 42 ) and, in the reverse sequence, first go through a "decipher" decryption circuit and then become one Data expansion "DAT Expa" fed to come back to a complete digital representation of the information.

In order to recognize whether the output data is digi tale or analog information, this will be in a Erken voltage circuit "D / A-Erkg" checked and with open "PIN Lock" in In the case of digital data directly to the digital output or the Display "DIG Display" fed.

However, this is digitized analog informa tion, this is done via a digital / analog converter "D / A" given and only then either arrive directly at a loudspeaker of the device or to an analogue out in parallel "Analog OUT" gear.  

A much simpler embodiment is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. This device is limited to the simple acoustic recording and playback of speech or undemanding pieces of music and to the digital input of numbers, e.g. B. "PINs". The dimensions of such a device, like small pocket calculators, could be produced comparatively in the format of a credit card, ie 86 × 54 mm, with a thickness of 4 mm, which experience has shown to be necessary to achieve a corresponding stability.

In this example a keypad with only 12 keys ( 0 - 11 ) is shown.

To switch on the switch ( 9 ) is provided, which is expediently designed as a slide switch in order to avoid unintentional switching on. An LC display ( 26 ) is provided on the upper edge of the device and a solar cell ( 27 ) as the power supply. The microphone ( 12 ) and the loudspeaker ( 14 ) are shown in the lower part. The lower edge is provided as a possible installation location for a battery ( 28 ). Likewise, a connector ( 16 ) can be provided on the lower edge for a line ( 17 ) to the computer or to other peripheral devices.

The arrangement described is based on one possible example to understand. Of course, all parts can be in any other rer arrangement of the expediency of operation or the spatial Housing the parts may be arranged differently.

The operation of such a device is extremely simple. After switching on with the switch ( 9 ), the device is immediately ready for operation, and the display ( 26 ) shows in the upper line which function is switched on. Shown is the display ( 15 ) "REC", which would mean that the device is switched to "Recording", ie to storage of the words spoken into the microphone ( 12 ). The specification ( 25 ) gives the respective state of the bit counter in the example "146". This defines a specific location in the data memory.

As a further functional example, the date and time can be read in the second line of the LC display ( 26 ). The picture shows March 10, 1992, 10.45 h.

If you want to protect the device from unauthorized use, you can use a "Personal Identification Number" (PIN) z. B. Enter as a 4-digit number. For this purpose, the "PIN" key is first pressed, and the desired secret code numbers can now be entered using the number keys, which either appear on the display ( 26 ) or are only symbolically formed as desired. After entering z. B. a 4-digit "PIN", the "PIN" key is pressed again, the entered "PIN" is saved, the display is cleared, and the device can only be put into operation after entering this "PIN".

The rest of the handling can be read directly from the common symbols:
REC button ( 7 ) means recording
PLAY button ( 8 ) means playback of the stored information
STOP button ( 9 ) means that the functions are stopped, but the device is not switched off, so that you can continue working immediately without entering the new "PIN".

With the "Listen" button ( 4 ), the bit counter can be reset by a small number of bits, and the stored text is indicated on the loudspeaker ( 14 ) until it reaches the interruption point, characterized by the bit numbers during the interruption reproduced.

If you want to further reset the bit counter to hear longer text parts, you can press the key ( 4 ) several times, which could mean that the bit counter by z. B. 200 bits is reset.

However, if you press the button ( 1 ), the bit memory z. B. reset by 1000 bits each. The same applies to a fast forward by pressing the "fast forward key" ( 5 ) or the "fast forward key" ( 2 ), which in each case leads to the bit counter being advanced to a higher value. The MP recognizes the last bit number and thus prevents the last information from "overflowing".

The number of bits reached appears as a bit display ( 25 ) on the display ( 26 ).

In order to avoid a too hectic jumping of the bit display ( 25 ), it may be advisable to use only the powers of ten or another fraction, e.g. B. display a fiftieth of the number of bits. Also an approximate display, e.g. B. by several LEDs, is possible according to the invention.

The "ER" key ( 3 ) (Erase key) is used to delete the stored text. The function of this key is advantageously made dependent on the fact that z. B. the "reset" button ( 10 ) is pressed, so that an unintentional, accidental deletion of the stored information is avoided.

Finally, there are buttons ( 0 ) and ( 11 ), which set an increase or decrease in volume.

The plug ( 16 ) with the line ( 17 ) is used to connect the device to other peripheral devices. For example, an additional microphone or an amplifier with loudspeaker could be connected. Likewise, the device could be connected to a stationary input and playback device in order to be able to query dictation texts via headphones or with foot switch operation in the usual way.

Via the plug connection ( 16 ), however, a data connection to a computer with all of its advantages could also be established.

The list of these possibilities is by no means be restrictive, but it can be practically all known Data communication methods can be provided.

Fig. 3 shows a side view of the device ( 13 ) in the game by game. The extremely flat design is characteristic of a device according to the invention.

Fig. 4 shows another embodiment of a device according to the invention, in which the information carrier in the form of a card ( 18 ) in a slot ( 19 ) in the housing ( 13 ) can be inserted or removed.

This simple extension of the device is an ideal solution to the storage capacity of the device practically arbitrarily expand.

The contactless data transfer between device and card also makes handling easier. A simple slot ( 19 ) in the Ge device housing ( 13 ) is enough to insert the card ( 18 ). The data transmission and possibly also the power supply of the electronic components in the card ( 18 ) take place inductively, capacitively or via opto-electronic elements such as light emitting or photo diodes or solar cells.

For cards with contact assembly is shown in the example Fig. 5 ge, how the card ( 18 ) with contacts ( 24 ) on the back of the device housing ( 13 ) is used and a cover ( 20 ), the card ( 18 ) in a recess ( 21 ) records. The cover ( 20 ) is connected by a hinge ( 22 ) to the housing ( 13 ) and presses the contacts ( 24 ) against the resilient counter contacts ( 23 ) in the closed state.

Without a card ( 18 ) inserted, the cover protects the contacts ( 23 ) from contamination.

According to the invention, the device can be powered by batteries ( 18 ) and / or by solar cells ( 27 ), as in pocket calculators, advantageously with rechargeable batteries which are recharged by the solar cells.

Finally, it is recommended according to the invention to provide a switch ( 29 ) on the device, with which one can switch to acoustic, ie analog or digital input. The switch ( 29 ) can, for. B. on the device edge, as shown in Fig. 4, may be arranged. According to the invention, such a changeover switch can also be designed as an automatically operating changeover switch which detects whether the input is analog or digital and switches accordingly, as shown in FIG. 1 "A / D Erkg".

Figure 5 is an example of a complex device with full alphanumeric input.

This device with a hinged display ( 26 ) and powerful solar cells ( 27 ) is also according to the invention both for the input of digital information, for. B. on the keypad ( 30 ), or of analog information, for. B. designed via the microphone ( 12 ). A plug ( 31 ) also allows the input of peripheral devices from both digital and analog information. The plug ( 31 ) is also suitable for data output to peripheral devices and for connecting an external power supply.

The data field ( 30 ) is essentially the same as the layout of a keypad on a typewriter and can perform all functions of previously known keypads from computers in the usual manner. Above the keypad ( 30 ) there is a number of function keys ( 31 ), which in this example include a "Off" key and general function keys "F1" to "F7" which, as desired, programs or individual functions via the microprocessor (MP) call the device as subroutines.

Such a subroutine is e.g. B. even when the Key "PIN" started, which means entering a "Personal Identification Number "(PIN). Then a enter such a multi-digit number and press it again the "PIN" button in the device. This "PIN" prevents unauthorized operation of the device and unauthorized access to the data. When you switch on the Device must first enter the secret "PIN" using this key will.

The "DIG" (digital) key causes the switchover from the storage of digital or analog information. In practice, this means switching from one Typewriter function with memory on an analog receiving acoustic dictation machine also with digitally stored Values.  

According to the invention, the device can also be equipped with an auto matically working "detection circuit" are equipped, which, depending on the incoming signals, recognizes whether it is di gitale or analog data input and automatically via the MP of the device controls the data input.

The function of the alphanumeric data keys is known and need not be explained. The keypad contains, among other things, a "shift key" ( 33 ) which, in the usual way, switches from lower case to upper case or to special characters.

The "space key" ( 34 ) switches gaps and the "AC key" ( 35 ) deletes the last entered value.

The row of keys ( 36 ) is the functions for recording analog signals, e.g. B. reserved in the manner of a dictation machine. The row of buttons ( 36 ) is so angeord net at the bottom of the device, so that even when the lid ( 37 ) is closed thanks to the recess ( 38 ) these buttons remain visible and, if necessary, can be operated, such as the dotted line ( 44 ) in Fig . 6 shows.

For safety reasons, the external "RES" (reset) and "ER" (erase) keys are not arranged within the recess ( 38 ) in order to avoid inadvertent actuation of these keys, which would lead to data loss.

FIG. 7 also shows how, for example, a chip card ( 39 ) can be inserted into the slot ( 40 ) to save space.

The laterally overlapping edge ( 45 ) not only reinforces the cover ( 37 ), but also covers the slot ( 40 ) in the closed state and prevents the chip card ( 39 ) from falling out of the slot ( 40 ).

The slide switch ( 46 ) for switching from "STOP" to "REC" or "PLAY" is also arranged according to the invention in such a way that it can also be operated when the cover ( 37 ) is closed.

The short schematic of two different ones The subject cannot explain the idea of the invention represent exhaustively. It should only help the Better to show ideas of invention.

The particular importance of the invention lies not only in the advantages already described, but is also mainly due to the combination of technological and constructive features in a comprehensive synergy effect.

The description and drawings provide valuable information about the design options of a device according to the invention.

Claims (28)

1. The method and device for the digital recording and replay of information, consisting of an information carrier with one or more solid-state memories, an input and an output system, characterized in that the information acoustically to an analog / digital converter (A / D converter) entered and from this to a microprocessor ("MP") and stored and stored on the information carrier and by a polling command either directly digital and / or after conversion into analog signals in a D / A converter an acoustic Output system are fed. 2. The method and device according to claim 1, characterized ge indicates that in addition to the acoustic Information entry also digital data entered and ge can be saved.   3. The method and device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized characterized that a bit counter is present which is the number of bits used up to the respective active, addressed bit of the memory counts and stores and this bit number exactly or at least approximate and reproducible on a display or with LEDs indicate. 4. The method and device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized characterized in that in the case of a Unterbre the current bit number is saved and a Standby programming of the MP is present after Input of a digital or acoustic signal the input or reading out information on the stored bit Number continues. 5. Method and device according to one or more of the previous existing claims, characterized net that a pause is programmed in the MP, which in the absence of acoustic input signals after a short delay the records in the Information carrier interrupts and on arrival of new input signals continue recording. 6. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that in the device a system for data compression and for data expansion is available. 7. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that in the device a system for data encryption and is available for data decryption.   8. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that in the MP of the device a program for input and Storage of a "PIN" (Personal Identification Number) is present, which gives access to the data storage only releases after entering the "PIN". 9. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that buttons or sensors are available, which Start a "Listen" subroutine via the MP, which interrupts data recording, the bit Stores number and with a bit number in front of it starting, outputs the last saved data and on the saved bit number of the interruption Recording blocked until e.g. B. another Pressing the recording button or entering another Command initiates the continuation of the recording. 10. The method and device according to claim 9, characterized ge indicates that a "reset button" is present, which is however a provision via the MP introduces the bit number in multiple sizes and more pressing the button also ver enlarged. 11. Method and device according to one or more of the previous existing claims, characterized net that a "reset" button is present, which the Bit counter and thus the data recording at the beginning resets the record.   12. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that there is a "mark" button, which actuation via the MP in the bit counter and / or in formation memory sets a mark, which at "Reset" limits the reset. 13. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that the information carrier with one or more Saving is in the de-energized state keep your saved data. 14. The method and device according to claim 13, characterized ge indicates that the information carrier dated Device is separable. 15. The method and apparatus according to claim 14, characterized ge indicates that the information carrier in Shape and dimensions of a chip card, e.g. B. one standard phone card. 16. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that the information carrier separable from the device besides the memories contains a microprocessor that like with the phone cards access to the data processed. 17. The method and device according to claim 16, characterized ge indicates that the MP of the device is the emergency has agile programs for data exchange with Te phone cards are required.   18. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that in the microprocessor of the information carrier Program is included which gives access to the data save the information carrier by entering a Makes code number dependent. 19. Method and device according to one or more of the previous existing claims, characterized net that the data transfer between the device and the information carrier takes place via contacts. 20. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that the data transfer between the device and the information carrier at least partially contactless, e.g. B. with inductive, capacitive or opto-electronic Means. 21. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that the power supply via solar cells and / or Batteries or rechargeable batteries are made. 22. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that the information carrier in a recording slot of the device can be inserted. 23. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that a recording on the back of the device is available for the information carrier.   24. The method and device according to claim 23, characterized ge indicates that the recording on the back side of the device with a hinged lid chert is. 25. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that resilient contacts after closing the lid are excited about the electrical connection between secure the device and the information carrier. 26. Method and device according to one or more of the foregoing existing claims, characterized net that a switch is available on the device, which the data input from digital to analog signals or reversed switches. 27. The method and apparatus according to claim 26, characterized ge indicates that the switch has a automatic detection circuit which detects whether digital or analog information NEN can be entered and the input switches accordingly. 28. Method and device according to one or more of the previous existing claims, characterized net that a connector to connect the Device with a computer and / or other devices, such as Scanner, printer, modem, etc. is present on the device.