JP2001094604A - Multimedia information communication system and computer system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a multimedia information communication system that can always smoothly start a speech for a plurality of objective speech opposite parties in a proper sound volume by providing a sound volume automatic control function that applies adaptive control of a sound volume of voice information to a channel connection opposite party depending thereon in the case of sending/ receiving voice information to/from a plurality of the objective connection opposite parties. SOLUTION: A personal computer(PC) 15A retrieves a telephone number of a communication opposite party terminal 12a from a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) stored in an internal storage section 153 to acquire an amplification factor/attenuation rate of a voice input output signal corresponding to the telephone number. A voice input control section 156 receives the acquired amplification factor/attenuation rate of the voice input signal and a voice output control section 157 receives the acquired amplification factor/ attenuation rate of the voice output signal to apply voice input control to a voice input device 16 (16A/16B) and voice output control to a voice output device 17 (17A/17B).

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN for transmitting voice information via a public network-LAN connecting device having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function. The present invention relates to a multimedia information communication system for transmitting and receiving.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a computer device having a function of transmitting and receiving voice information to and from a communication partner connected to a line via a LAN.

Further, the present invention provides a multimedia information communication system, a computer device, and a public network-L having a function of appropriately controlling the volume of audio information depending on a line connection partner.
The present invention relates to an AN connection device, a server, and an information terminal.

[0004]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an existing switching system in multimedia information communication, a voice signal is amplified by using an audio signal amplifying / attenuating device in a switching device or an audio output signal amplifying / attenuating device provided to a telephone or the like. The volume was adjusted during a call.

However, the audio signal amplifying / attenuating device inside the exchange is fixed for each type of terminal and each type of public line, leased line, etc., and the telephone has an audio input signal amplifying / attenuating function. Is not provided, and the amplification / attenuation level of the voice input signal is set with a mechanical switch or the like, so that the level is constant regardless of the communication partner. When the other party has a hearing impairment or the like, it is necessary to have the other party adjust the switch immediately after the start of the call to have an appropriate volume, and it has been difficult to always start a smooth conversation.

[0006] Also, when voice input / output is performed by using a microphone or a speaker in a personal computer (PC), depending on the device, the sound input / output signal amplification function provided in the personal computer may have a sufficient volume. In some cases, usable microphones and speakers are specified depending on the device, and there is a problem in usability.

[0007]

As described above, conventionally, in an existing switching system in multimedia information communication, the volume control during a voice call is controlled by an amplifying / attenuating device for a voice signal in the switching device. Since it was performed using a device for amplifying / attenuating an audio output signal provided to a telephone or the like, it was difficult to always start a smooth conversation with a plurality of parties, and each time the party changed, In addition, there are various problems in the system, such as the necessity of volume adjustment work for obtaining an appropriate volume. Also, when audio input / output is performed using a microphone or a speaker in a personal computer, depending on the device, the audio input / output signal amplification function provided in the personal computer may not be able to obtain a sufficient volume. There are various problems in terms of usability, such as the fact that a usable microphone or speaker is specified depending on the device.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances,
In a multimedia information communication system in which an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN transmit and receive voice information via a public network-LAN connection device having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function, When sending / receiving voice information to / from multiple connected parties, the system has an automatic volume control function that optimizes and controls the volume of voice information depending on the line connected party, so that it is always appropriate for multiple called parties It is an object of the present invention to provide a multimedia information communication system capable of starting a call at a volume.

The present invention is also directed to a computer apparatus having a function of transmitting and receiving voice information to and from a communication partner connected to a line via a LAN.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a computer device that can always smoothly transmit and receive audio information at an appropriate volume.

[0010] The present invention also provides a public network-LAN connection device capable of always smoothly and appropriately transmitting and receiving audio information at an appropriate volume to a plurality of communication partners when constructing a multimedia information communication system. It is intended to provide a server and an information terminal.

[0011]

According to the present invention, in a multimedia information communication system, voice management information storage means for storing the amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a communication partner is provided in the system. In each communication handling voice, the volume of the transmitted / received voice information is appropriately controlled for each communication partner by referring to the voice management information storage means.

That is, according to the present invention, an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN are connected to a voice signal.
In a multimedia information communication system for transmitting and receiving voice information via a public network-LAN connection device having a voice packet conversion function, a voice input means, a voice output means, and a voice signal of the voice input means are provided to the computer. Audio input control means for variably controlling the level, audio output control means for variably controlling the audio signal level of the audio output means,
Setting means for setting an amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal handled by the audio input means and audio output means; and audio management information storage means for storing the set amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal, wherein the computer When making a voice call with a terminal connected to a public network or another computer connected to a LAN, a predetermined amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal is associated with a communication partner to make the voice communication. At least one of the voice input control means and the voice output control means refers to the information stored in the voice management information storage means and stores at least the voice input means and the voice output during a call. The level of the audio signal handled by any of the means is automatically variably controlled.

[0013] Further, according to the present invention, an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN are capable of transmitting audio signals.
In a multimedia information communication system for transmitting and receiving voice information via a public network-LAN connecting device having a voice packet conversion function, the public network-LAN connecting device determines the amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal with a connection partner. Voice management information storage means for storing in association with the voice input means and voice output means, voice input control means for variably controlling a voice signal level of the voice input means, and voice of the voice output means; Audio output control means for variably controlling the signal level; setting means for setting the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal handled by the audio input means and audio output means; and setting the amplification / attenuation rate of the set audio signal to the public. Registering means for registering in the voice management information storage means provided in the network-LAN connection device, and connecting to a computer connected to the LAN and a public network; When communication using voice is performed with an information terminal or another computer connected to a LAN, a predetermined amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal is set to the public network-LAN connection device for each communication partner. Is stored in the voice management information storage means provided in, at the time of a call, at least one of the voice input control means, voice output control means with reference to the information stored in the voice management information storage means, at least the The level of an audio signal handled by either the audio input means or the audio output means is variably controlled.

[0014] Further, according to the present invention, an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN are capable of transmitting audio signals.
In a public network-LAN connection device having a voice packet conversion function and a multimedia information communication system for transmitting and receiving voice information via a switching control device, the switching control device communicates the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal with the switching control device. Voice management information storage means for storing the voice management information in association with the other party; voice input means and voice output means in the computer; voice input control means for variably controlling a voice signal level of the voice input means; Audio output control means for variably controlling the audio signal level, setting means for setting the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal handled by the audio input means and audio output means, and setting the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal set. Registration means for registering in the voice management information storage means provided in the exchange control device, provided with a computer connected to a LAN and a public network When communication using voice is performed with an information terminal or another computer connected to a LAN, a predetermined amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal is provided in the exchange control device for each communication partner. Stored in the voice management information storage means, at the time of a call, at least the voice input control means, at least one of the voice output control means with reference to the information stored in the voice management information storage means, at least the voice input means, It is characterized in that the level of the audio signal handled by any of the audio output means is variably controlled.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above multimedia information communication system, voice management information storage means for storing the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal for each communication partner is provided for each information terminal, and for each information terminal. It is characterized by being managed and referred to by individually assigned identification information.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above-mentioned multimedia information communication system, by designating a communication partner to a computer, by referring to voice management information storage means,
At least a means for automatically and variably controlling the level of an audio signal handled by either the audio input means or the audio output means is provided.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above-mentioned multimedia information communication system, a computer identifies a source at the time of an incoming call, refers to a voice management information storage means based on the information, and at least a voice input means. And means for automatically and variably controlling the level of an audio signal handled by any of the audio output means.

Further, according to the present invention, in the multimedia information communication system, when the communication partner is not registered in the voice management information storage means managed by the computer, the voice management information managed by another computer may be used. A means for acquiring an amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal of the communication partner with reference to a storage means is provided.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above-mentioned multimedia information communication system, voice management information storage means for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal for each communication partner is provided for each information terminal, and for each information terminal. When the individually assigned identification information is input, the voice management information storage means of the information terminal having the identification information is automatically selected and used.

The present invention also provides the multimedia information communication system having means for amplifying / attenuating at least the audio signal handled by the audio input means and the audio output means by the application or middleware used by a plurality of applications. It is characterized by becoming.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above multimedia information communication system, when an audio signal amplification / attenuation rate is set during a telephone call, the set audio signal amplification / attenuation is set.
It is characterized by comprising means for storing the attenuation rate in the voice management information storage means in association with the other party.

Further, according to the present invention, in the above-mentioned multimedia information communication system, when a voice signal amplification / attenuation rate is set during a call referring to voice management information storage means,
The voice management information storage means includes means for changing the amplification / attenuation rate of the other party stored in the voice management information storage means to the amplification / attenuation rate set at the time of the call.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer apparatus having a function of transmitting and receiving voice information to and from a communication partner connected to a line, comprising: a voice input unit, a voice output unit, and a voice signal level of the voice input unit. Input control means for variably controlling the audio signal, audio output control means for variably controlling the audio signal level of the audio output means, and setting means for setting an amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal handled by the audio input means and the audio output means. And voice management information storage means for storing the set amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal for each communication partner, and storing the voice management information when transmitting / receiving voice information to / from a communication partner connected to a line. A sound level control means for variably controlling a level of a sound signal handled by at least one of the sound input means and the sound output means.

The present invention also provides a public network having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function for connecting a line between an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN.
In a LAN connection device, a voice management information storage means for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a connection partner of the computer; Means for transmitting the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal associated with the connection partner to the computer when the is stored.

Further, according to the present invention, there is provided a server having an exchange control function for controlling transmission / reception of a computer connected on a LAN, wherein voice management information for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a communication partner. The storage means and the voice management information storage means are referred to at the time of controlling the transmission / reception of the computer, and when the corresponding connection partner is stored, the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal associated with the communication partner is determined. Means for sending to a computer.

According to the present invention, there is provided an information terminal for transmitting / receiving voice information to / from an information processing device via a public network, wherein voice management information for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a communication partner. The storage means and the voice management information storage means are referred to at the time of outgoing / incoming call control, and when the corresponding connection partner is stored, based on the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal associated with the communication partner. Means for controlling at least one of the input sound and the output sound.

As described above, when transmitting / receiving voice information to / from a plurality of connection partners using the voice management information storage means, a volume automatic control function for optimizing and controlling the volume of the voice information by the line connection partner is provided. With this realization, it is possible to always smoothly start a call with an appropriate volume for a plurality of call partners.

[0028]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a multimedia information communication system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Here, a plurality of telephones connected to a public network 11 or information having a telephone call function are shown. It comprises terminals 12a to 12n, a public network-LAN connection device 13 for connecting the public network 11 and the LAN 14, personal computers (PCs) 15A and 15B connected to the LAN 14, an exchange control device 19, and the like. The personal computers (PCs) 15A and 15B have audio input devices 16A and 16A, respectively.
6B, audio output devices 17A and 17B, an external storage device 18 for storing an audio management information table (VOC-TBL)
A, 18B, etc. are provided. The configuration of the voice management information table (VOC-TBL) is exemplified in FIG. 4, and its operation will be described later with reference to FIG.

In the information communication system described above, the personal computers (PCs) 15A and 15B have a voice input / output control function, and a telephone or an information terminal having a telephone function via the public network-LAN connection device 13. 12a-12
2 for transmitting and receiving voices to and from n. FIG.

The public network-LAN connection device 13 is connected to the LAN 1
A voice output device 17 provided in personal computers (PC) 15A, 15B
A, 17B, and a voice input device 16 similarly provided in personal computers (PCs) 15A, 15B.
A and 16B are converted into voice packets and transmitted to the LAN 14, and the internal configuration is shown in FIG.
Shown in

FIG. 2 shows a personal computer (PC) 1
It is a block diagram which shows the internal components of 5A, 15B,
Here, a LAN interface unit 151 having a connection port of the LAN 14, a voice packet disassembly / assembly unit 152, and a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) to be used stored in the external storage devices 18A and 18B are loaded. An internal storage unit 153, a main control unit 154 for controlling the entire computer system, an audio signal amplifying / attenuating unit 155 for amplifying / attenuating an audio signal, and audio for performing audio input control of the audio input device 16 (16A / 16B). Input control unit 156, audio output device 17 (17A, 17B)
And a voice output control section 157 for controlling the voice output of the digital camera.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the main part of the public network-LAN connection device 13. In this case, the public network 11
Public network interface unit 131 having a connection port of L
LAN interface unit 1 with connection port for AN 14
32, an audio packet processing unit 133 for performing mutual conversion between audio signals and audio packets, a connection control unit 134 for controlling line connection between the public network 11 and the LAN 14, and the like.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) which is stored and managed by the external storage devices 18A and 18B, is read into the internal storage unit 153 at the time of use, and is stored in the storage unit 153. And for each communication partner, the identifier of the communication partner (telephone number in this example)
And the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal are managed in association with each other.

This voice management information table (VOC-TB)
L) is a personal computer (PC) 15A, 15
B is a plurality of telephones connected to the public network 11 or information terminals 12a to 12n having a call function, or the LAN 1
When a call is made with another personal computer (PC) connected to the communication device 4, the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal set by the user is stored (registered) in association with the other party (phone number). You. In addition, during a call, when the corresponding call partner (telephone number) is registered, the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice input signal corresponding to the call partner (telephone number) is sent to the voice input control unit 156, and the voice The amplification / attenuation rate of the output signal is sent to the audio output control unit 157, and based on the information, the audio input device 16 (16A / 16B)
(Input / output control of audio input level) and audio output control of the audio output device 17 (17A, 17B) (control of increase / decrease of audio output level) are performed to control the input / output audio to an appropriate volume. .

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the first embodiment.

The operation of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

Referring to FIG. 5, the operation of amplifying / attenuating audio signals when personal computer (PC) 15A talks with a terminal connected to a line will be described.

Here, a case will be described as an example where a telephone (or an information terminal having a call function) 12a connected to the public network 11 and a personal computer (PC) 15A make a call. Here, the exchange control device 1 is set in advance so that when a call arrives at the public network-LAN connection device 13, it arrives at the personal computer (PC) 15A.
It is assumed that data is set in 9.

First, a telephone (or an information terminal having a telephone call function) 12a connected to the public network 11 transmits
The telephone number “04” of the line to which the LAN connection device 13 is connected
Dial 2-585-3000 ".

The public network-LAN connection device 13 is a public network 1
When an incoming call is received from No. 1, the exchange control device 19 is notified of the incoming call. The exchange control device 19 selects the personal computer (PC) 15A as the destination, and
C) Call 15A. At this time, the telephone number "03-1234-5678" of the destination telephone (or information terminal having a telephone call function) 12a notified from the public network 11 is transmitted.
Is notified to the personal computer (PC) 15A via the public network-LAN connection device 13.

Personal computer (PC) 15A
When a user (operator) using the computer (PC) 15A responds by operating an operation input unit such as a keyboard and a mouse (not shown), the response signal is transmitted to the exchange control device 19 and the public network-LAN connection device. 13 to the public network 11.

As a result, the public network 11 is connected to the telephone (or information terminal having a call function) 12a and the public network-LAN.
A communication path between the connection devices 13 is established, while the LAN 1
4, a communication path between the public network-LAN connection device 13 and the personal computer (PC) 15A is established,
Voice communication between the telephone (or information terminal having a telephone call function) 12a and the personal computer (PC) 15A becomes possible.

Further, a personal computer (PC)
15A, the external storage device 18A transfers the internal storage unit 153
Is retrieved from the voice management information table (VOC-TBL) shown in FIG. 4 and stored in the storage unit 153, and the telephone number of the telephone (or information terminal having a telephone call function) 12a is searched. The amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal corresponding to are obtained. Here, the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal is “0”.
dB ”and“ −2d ”as the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal.
B ”.

The obtained amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal is sent to the audio input control section 156, and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal is sent to the audio output control section 157.
Based on the amplification / attenuation rate, the audio input device 16 (16A
/ 16B) (sound input level increase / decrease control) and sound output control of the sound output device 17 (17A, 17B) (sound output level increase / decrease control).

In this example, the audio data received from the LAN 14 is attenuated by "-2 dB", and the audio output device 17A
Since the audio data output to the audio input device 16A has an amplification / attenuation rate of "0 dB", the telephone (or a telephone having a telephone communication function) of the other party is directly transmitted via the LAN 14 without amplification / attenuation. (Information terminal) 12a.

At this time, the voice management information table (VOC-
If there is no amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal relating to the corresponding communication partner on TBL), the amplification / attenuation processing of the audio signal is not performed.

When a user who has made a voice call sets or changes the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice input / output signal during the call, the changed value (amplification rate / attenuation rate) is shown in FIG. Is set in the voice management information table (VOC-TBL) shown in FIG.

Next, a personal computer (PC) 1
An operation when a call is transmitted from 5A to the mobile phone 2P will be described.

From the application on the personal computer (PC) 15A, the telephone number “09” of the mobile phone 2P is read.
When "0-5678-9999" is dialed, a transmission request signal to "090-5678-9999" is transmitted from the personal computer (PC) 15A to the exchange controller 19.

The exchange controller 19 determines whether or not the destination telephone number is a public network terminal. Since the notified telephone number is a public network terminal telephone number, The signal is transmitted to the public network-LAN connection device 13.

The public network / LAN connection device 13 that has received the call request signal transmits the call request signal to the public network 11. In the public network 11, the mobile phone 2P is called as a corresponding telephone from the telephone number “090-5678-9999” received from the public network-LAN connection device 13.

When the mobile phone 2P responds, a response signal is transmitted to the public network-LAN connection device 13 via the public network 11. The public network-LAN connection device 13 transmits a response signal to the source personal computer (PC) 15A via the exchange control device 19.

As a result, a voice communication path is established between the personal computer (PC) 15A and the portable telephone 2P.

Personal computer (PC) 15A
FIG. 4 shows that when a voice communication path with the mobile phone 2P is established,
In the voice management information table (VOC-TBL) shown in
The source telephone number "090-5678-9999" is searched, and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal corresponding to the telephone number are obtained. Here, “+ 3d” is used as the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal.
B ”,“ +3 dB ”as the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal
To get.

The obtained amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal is sent to the audio input control section 156, and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal is sent to the audio output control section 157.
Based on the amplification / attenuation rate, the audio input device 16 (16A
/ 16B) (sound input level increase / decrease control) and sound output control of the sound output device 17 (17A, 17B) (sound output level increase / decrease control).

In this example, the voice data received from the LAN 14 is amplified by "+3 dB" and output to the voice output device 17A, and the voice data input from the voice input device 16A is amplified by "+3 dB" and the other party communicates via the LAN 14. To the mobile phone 2P.

Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the same portions as those in the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 6 shows a system configuration when the voice management information table (VOC-TBL) shown in FIG. 4 is managed by the storage device 21 provided in the public network-LAN connection device 13.

In the system configuration shown in FIG. 6, when voice communication is performed, amplification / amplification of voice input / output signals for each communication partner is performed.
Since the attenuation rate is managed by the storage device 21 provided in the public network-LAN connection device 13, when each of the personal computers (PCs) 15A and 15B starts voice communication, the personal computer (PC) 15A and 15B based on the telephone number of the communication partner. Then, the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input / output signal is read out from the audio management information table (VOC-TBL) stored in the storage device 21 of the public network-LAN connection device 13 to amplify / attenuate the audio input / output signal. . The amplification / attenuation control at this time is the same as in the first embodiment described above, and the description thereof is omitted here.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. Here, the same portions as those in the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

FIG. 7 shows a system configuration when the voice management information table (VOC-TBL) shown in FIG. 4 is managed by the storage device 22 provided in the exchange control device (or server having an exchange control function) 19. ing.

In the system configuration shown in FIG. 7, when voice communication is performed, amplification / amplification of voice input / output signals for each communication partner is performed.
Since the attenuation rate is managed by the storage device 22 provided in the exchange control device (or the server having the exchange control function) 19, each personal computer (PC) 15A, 15B
When voice communication is started, a voice management information table (VOC) stored in a storage device 22 provided in an exchange control device (or a server having an exchange control function) 19 based on a telephone number of a communication partner. -TBL) to amplify / attenuate audio input / output signals. The amplification / attenuation control at this time is the same as in the first embodiment described above, and the description thereof is omitted here.

Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the same portions as those in the above-described first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

In the fourth embodiment, an ID (personal identification information) for identifying a user is prepared in advance for each user who uses a terminal such as a personal computer (PC) 15A, 15B, as shown in FIG. First, a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) is prepared for each ID. An operation example at this time will be described with reference to FIG.

Here, a personal computer (PC)
ID information for identifying the user is assigned in advance to each of the users who use the terminals such as 15A and 15B, and stored in the storage device 22 provided in the exchange control device (or the server having the exchange control function) 19. A voice management information table (VOC-TBL) is prepared for each user ID.

The user operates the personal computer (P
C) When voice communication is performed using 15A, first, ID information is input to a personal computer (PC) 15A.

Next, voice communication is performed by inputting the telephone number of the terminal with which voice communication is to be performed and performing outgoing call processing or responding to an incoming call from another terminal.

Here, a description will be given of a process in the case where a user to which "002" has been given as the user ID performs voice communication with the telephone (or information terminal having a call function) 12c. First, the user inputs his / her ID number “002” using an application on the personal computer (PC) 15A.

Next, the telephone number "042-" of the telephone (or the information terminal having a telephone call function) 12c with which communication is desired.
386-1111 "to a personal computer (PC)
Input to application on 15A.

The application on the personal computer (PC) 15A transmits a transmission request signal to the exchange controller 19 based on the input telephone number.

Switching control device 19 having received the transmission request signal
Then, in the process of determining whether the connection destination terminal is a terminal connected to the public network 11 or a terminal connected to the LAN 14, it is determined that the connection destination is connected to the public network 11, and The transmission request signal is transmitted to the LAN connection device 13.

The public network-LAN connection device 13 performs a transmission process to the public network 11 based on the transmission request received from the exchange control device 19.

In the public network 11, a telephone (or an information terminal having a call function) 12c as a destination is called in response to a call request from the public network-LAN connection device 13.

When a telephone (or an information terminal having a call function) 12c answers, a response signal is sent from the public network 11 to the exchange control device 1 via the public network-LAN connection device 13.
9 is transmitted.

The exchange control device 19 transmits the received response signal to the personal computer (PC) 15A of the transmission source, and thereby, the personal computer (P) of the transmission source.
C) A voice communication path is established between 15A and the destination telephone set (or information terminal having a call function) 12c.

Here, a personal computer (PC)
15A is managed by the storage device 22 provided in the exchange control device (or a server having an exchange control function) 19 based on the user ID “002” and the telephone number of the destination “042-386-111”. The voice management information table (VOC-TB) of the user ID; 002 shown in FIG.
L) and referring to the telephone number “042-386-11”
The amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal corresponding to “1” are acquired. Here, “+2 dB” is acquired as the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal, and “+1 dB” is acquired as the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal.

The obtained amplification / attenuation rate of the audio input signal is sent to the audio input control section 156, and the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio output signal is sent to the audio output control section 157.
Based on the amplification / attenuation rate, the audio input device 16 (16A
/ 16B) (sound input level increase / decrease control) and sound output control of the sound output device 17 (17A, 17B) (sound output level increase / decrease control).

In this example, the audio data received from the LAN 14 is amplified by “+1 dB” and output to the audio output device 17A, and the audio data input from the audio input device 16A is amplified by “+2 dB” and is communicated via the LAN 14 To the telephone (or an information terminal having a call function) 12c.

At this time, if the user changes the amplification factor of the audio input / output signal, the personal computer (P
C) 15A manages a user ID, a telephone number of a communication partner, and an amplification / attenuation rate of a new voice input / output signal in a storage device 22 provided in an exchange control device (or a server having an exchange control function) 19. The corresponding voice management information table (VOC-TBL), for example, the voice management information table (VOC-TB) of the user ID; 002 shown in FIG.
L).

As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the public network 11 is connected to the LAN 14, the audio signal received from the public network is packetized and transmitted to the LAN 14, and the audio packet received from the LAN 14 is transmitted. A public network-LAN connecting device 13 having a function of converting the voice signal to a public network 11 and transmitting the voice signal input from the voice input device 16 to the LAN 14 while packetizing the voice signal; Personal computer (PC) having a voice input / output function of converting a packet into a voice signal and outputting the voice signal to a voice output device 17 (17A, 17B), and having a storage device 18 for storing a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) 15 (15A, 15
B) between a plurality of telephones connected to the public network 11 or information terminals 12a to 12n having a telephone call function.
In a communication system that performs communication using multimedia information such as images, when performing communication using voice, a voice input / output signal stored in a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) for each communication partner. Personal computer (PC) 15A, 15A, 15
Since B automatically amplifies / attenuates the voice input / output signal, for example, the other party's terminal is a mobile phone that is easily affected by ambient noise, or the other party is an elderly person with a hearing problem. Even in such a case, a call can always be made at an appropriate volume.

Further, even when a plurality of operators make a call to the same customer in a call center or the like,
Since the amplification rate / attenuation rate of the voice input / output signal set by the operator who made the first call can be shared by a plurality of personal computers (PCs), after the voice call starts, the amplification rate / attenuation rate of the voice input / output signal is set. It is not necessary to carry out, and conversation can be conducted smoothly.

In addition to the existing audio signal amplification / attenuation function provided in the personal computer (PC), the personal computer (PC) has an audio signal amplification / attenuation function using the audio management information table (VOC-TBL). Thus, microphones, speakers, and the like that could not be used because a sufficient volume could not be obtained conventionally can be used.

[0084]

As described above in detail, according to the present invention, an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN have a public network-LAN connection apparatus having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function. In a multimedia information communication system that transmits and receives voice information via a network, when transmitting and receiving voice information to a plurality of connected parties, a volume automatic control function that optimizes and controls the volume of the voice information by the line connected party is provided. With this, it is possible to provide a multimedia information communication system capable of always smoothly starting a call at an appropriate volume for a plurality of call partners.

Further, according to the present invention, in a computer apparatus having a function of transmitting and receiving voice information to and from a communication partner connected to a line via a LAN, a plurality of communication partners are always smoothly processed. A computer device capable of transmitting and receiving audio information at an appropriate volume can be provided.

Further, according to the present invention, when constructing a multimedia information communication system, a public network-LAN connection capable of constantly and smoothly transmitting and receiving audio information at an appropriate volume to a plurality of communication partners. An apparatus, a server, and an information terminal can be provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a multimedia information communication system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary block diagram showing internal components of a personal computer (PC) in the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing internal components of the public network-LAN connection device in the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a view showing a configuration example of a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) in the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a voice management information table (VOC-TBL) according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

VOC-TBL: Voice management information table 11: Public network 12a to 12n: Telephone (or information terminal having a call function) 13: Public network-LAN connection device 14: LAN 15A, 15B: Personal computer (PC) 16A, 16B ... Speech input devices 17A, 17B ... Speech output devices 18A, 18B ... External storage device 19 ... Exchange control device (server having an exchange control function) 21 ... Storage device 22 ... Storage device 131 ... Public network interface unit 132 ... LAN interface unit 133 voice packet processing unit 134 connection control unit 151 LAN interface unit 152 voice packet disassembly unit 153 internal storage unit 154 main control unit 155 voice signal amplification / attenuation unit 156 voice input control unit 157 voice Output control unit 2P: Mobile phone

──────────────────────────────────────────────────の Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat ゛ (Reference) H04M 11/00 302 H04L 11/20 B H04R 27/00 F term (Reference) 5K027 DD16 5K030 GA17 GA18 HB01 HB21 HC02 HC14 HD03 HD06 JA05 JL07 JT01 KA04 KA08 KA13 LB02 LB15 5K033 AA03 BA14 BA15 CC01 DA06 DB12 DB14 DB18 5K101 LL05 NN00 NN37 SS06 SS08

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. A multimedia information communication system in which an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN transmit and receive voice information via a public network-LAN connection device having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function. In the system, an audio input means and an audio output means, an audio input control means for variably controlling an audio signal level of the audio input means, and an audio output for variably controlling an audio signal level of the audio output means are provided to the computer. Control means, setting means for setting amplification / attenuation rates of audio signals handled by the audio input means and audio output means, and audio management information storage means for storing the set amplification / attenuation rates of the audio signals are provided. A terminal or LA in which the computer is connected to a public network
When making a call using a voice with another computer connected to N, a preset amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal is stored in the voice management information storage means in association with a communication partner, At the time of a call, at least one of the voice input control means and the voice output control means refers to information stored in the voice management information storage means, and at least a voice signal handled by the voice input means or the voice output means A multimedia information communication system characterized by variably controlling the level of the multimedia information. 2. Multimedia information communication in which an information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN transmit and receive voice information via a public network-LAN connection device having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function. In the system, the public network-LAN connection device is provided with voice management information storage means for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a connection partner, and the computer has voice input means and voice output means. Audio input control means for variably controlling the audio signal level of the audio input means; audio output control means for variably controlling the audio signal level of the audio output means; Setting means for setting an amplification / attenuation rate, and the audio management provided in the public network-LAN connection device, for setting the amplification / attenuation rate of the set audio signal. Registration means for registering the information in the information storage means, when performing communication using voice between a computer connected to the LAN and an information terminal connected to the public network or another computer connected to the LAN. , The predetermined amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal is determined for each communication partner by using the public network.
It is stored in the voice management information storage means provided in the LAN connection device, and at the time of a call, at least one of the voice input control means and the voice output control means refers to the information stored in the voice management information storage means. And a variably controlling a level of an audio signal handled by at least one of the audio input means and the audio output means. 3. An information terminal connected to a public network and a computer connected to a LAN transmit and receive voice information via a public network-LAN connection device having a voice signal-voice packet conversion function and an exchange control device. In the multimedia information communication system, the switching control device is provided with voice management information storage means for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a communication partner, and the computer is provided with voice input means and voice output. Means, audio input control means for variably controlling the audio signal level of the audio input means, audio output control means for variably controlling the audio signal level of the audio output means, and audio handled by the audio input means and audio output means Setting means for setting an amplification / attenuation rate of a signal; and setting the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal to the voice management information provided in the exchange control device. Registering means for registering in the storage means, when performing communication using voice between a computer connected to the LAN and an information terminal connected to the public network or another computer connected to the LAN, Storing a preset amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal in the voice management information storage means provided in the exchange control device for each communication partner;
At the time of a call, at least one of the voice input control means and the voice output control means refers to the information stored in the voice management information storage means, at least the voice input means,
A multimedia information communication system, wherein the level of an audio signal handled by any of the audio output means is variably controlled. 4. A voice management information storage means for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal for each communication partner is provided for each information terminal, and is managed and referred to by identification information individually given to each information terminal. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein
A multimedia information communication system as described. 5. A computer, by designating a communication partner, referring to the voice management information storage means and automatically variably controlling the level of a voice signal handled by at least one of the voice input means and the voice output means. 4. The multimedia information communication system according to claim 1, further comprising means. 6. A computer identifies a source at the time of an incoming call, refers to a voice management information storage means based on the information, and determines at least a level of a voice signal handled by at least one of the voice input means and the voice output means. 4. The multimedia information communication system according to claim 1, further comprising means for automatically variably controlling the multimedia information. 7. When the communication partner is not registered in the voice management information storage means managed by itself, the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal of the communication partner is referred to by referring to the voice management information storage means managed by another computer. 2. The multimedia information communication system according to claim 1, further comprising: means for acquiring the information. 8. A voice management information storage means for storing an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal for each communication partner is provided for each information terminal, and when identification information individually given to each information terminal is inputted, 4. The multimedia information communication system according to claim 1, wherein the voice management information storage means of the information terminal having the identification information is automatically selected and used. 9. The multimedia information according to claim 1, further comprising means for amplifying / attenuating an audio signal handled by at least an audio input means and an audio output means by an application or middleware used by a plurality of applications. Communications system. 10. A means for storing, when amplifying / attenuating rate of a voice signal is set during a telephone call, the set amplifying / attenuating rate of the voice signal in a voice management information storage means in association with a communication partner. The multimedia information communication system according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein 11. When an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal is set during a call referring to the voice management information storage means, the amplification / attenuation rate of the other party stored in the voice management information storage means is changed during the call. 4. The multimedia information communication system according to claim 1, further comprising means for changing to the set amplification / attenuation rate. 12. A computer device having a function of transmitting and receiving voice information to and from a communication partner connected to a line, comprising: voice input means and voice output means; and variably controlling a voice signal level of the voice input means. Voice input control means; voice output control means for variably controlling a voice signal level of the voice output means; setting means for setting an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal handled by the voice input means and voice output means; The voice management information storage means for storing the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal for each communication partner, and the voice management information storage means for transmitting / receiving voice information to / from a communication partner connected to the line. A sound level control means for variably controlling a level of a sound signal handled by at least one of the sound input means and the sound output means. Data device. 13. An information terminal and a LAN connected to a public network
A public network-LAN connection device having an audio signal-to-audio packet conversion function for connecting a line to a computer connected to a computer, and stores an amplification / attenuation rate of an audio signal in association with a connection partner of the computer. The voice management information storage means and the voice management information storage means are referred to when the line is connected, and when the corresponding connection partner is stored, the amplification / attenuation rate of the audio signal associated with the connection partner is transmitted to the computer. And a public network-LAN connection device. 14. A server having an exchange control function for controlling transmission / reception of a computer connected on a LAN, wherein voice management information storage means stores an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a communication partner. When controlling the transmission / reception of the computer, the voice management information storage means is referred to, and when the corresponding connection partner is stored, the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal associated with the communication partner is transmitted to the computer. And a server. 15. An information terminal for transmitting and receiving voice information to and from an information processing device via a public network, wherein voice management information storage means stores an amplification / attenuation rate of a voice signal in association with a communication partner. At the time of outgoing / incoming call control, referring to the voice management information storage means, when the corresponding connection partner is stored, at least the input voice based on the amplification / attenuation rate of the voice signal associated with the call partner, Means for controlling any volume of the output sound.