JP2001218660A - Picture frame structure - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make reproducible a sound at any time in a state wherein a photograph is placed in a picture frame. SOLUTION: A picture frame 1 can house the photograph on which sound data is recorded. In this case, an IC memory 3 which stores the sound data being fetched from the photograph, and a speaker 4 which reproduces a sound based on the stored sound data are arranged on a picture frame main body 5.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a frame structure capable of accommodating, for example, a photograph on which audio data is recorded.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Heretofore, even a photograph in which a voice recognition code is attached to an appropriate place on a surface has been displayed in a normal picture frame. When the user wants to reproduce the sound of a picture put in a picture frame, the picture is once taken out of the picture frame, the code is scanned by a scanner, and the picture is listened to by a separate sound reproducer.

[0003]

However, every time one wants to listen to audio, the work of taking out the picture from the frame and scanning the picture is onerous.
In addition, a separate regenerator, scanner, and the like must be stored, so that a storage place must be secured, and the regenerator, the scanner, and the like may be lost. Further, there is a problem that the sound can be heard only when scanning.

[0004] Therefore, there has been a request to reproduce sound with a picture kept in a picture frame.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and has as its object to provide a picture frame structure capable of reproducing sound at any time while a picture remains in the picture frame. And

[0006]

In order to achieve the above object, a first aspect of the present invention is a frame structure capable of accommodating a photograph in which audio data is recorded, wherein the audio data captured from the photograph is stored in a frame. A storage means for storing and a reproducing means for reproducing sound based on the stored sound data are arranged in a frame main body as a frame structure.

[0007] According to the above arrangement, the frame body is provided with the storage means and the reproduction means. The audio data taken from the photograph is stored in the storage means, and based on the stored audio data. Since the sound is reproduced by the reproducing means, the sound can be reproduced at any time while the picture remains in the picture frame.

Further, if a part of the surface of the photograph is used as a recording medium for the audio data, and if there is provided input means for taking in the audio data recorded on the recording medium, the image recorded on the photograph is provided. Audio data is captured in the frame. For example, the audio data may be code information, and the input means may be a code reader (claim 3).

Furthermore, if the audio data is recorded on a recording medium separate from the photograph and the input means for taking in the recorded audio data and storing it in the storage means is provided, Audio data other than the audio data recorded in the photograph is taken into the frame. For example, the recording medium includes at least one of a removable disk and a recording tape, and the input means may be an audio device that reproduces audio based on audio data recorded on the recording medium (claim 5).

[0010] Further, as in claim 6, the storage means includes:
In the case of a semiconductor memory, a sufficient storage capacity is secured.

[0011] Further, the present invention is a frame structure capable of accommodating a photograph, comprising input means for taking in audio data recorded in a recording means separate from the photograph, and A storage means for storing and a reproducing means for reproducing sound based on the stored sound data are arranged in a frame main body as a frame structure.

According to the above arrangement, the storage means and the reproducing means are provided in the frame main body, and when the audio data recorded in the recording means separate from the photograph is captured by the input means, the captured data is captured. The recorded audio data is stored in the storage means, and the audio is reproduced by the reproduction means based on the stored audio data. Therefore, the audio is reproduced at any time while the picture remains in the frame.

[0013]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a picture frame and its peripheral equipment according to an embodiment of the present invention. The frame 1 is capable of accommodating a photograph 2 in which audio data is recorded, and is an IC memory (semiconductor memory) serving as storage means for storing audio data captured from the photograph 2.
3 and a speaker 4 that is a reproducing unit that reproduces audio based on the audio data stored in the IC memory 3.
It is arranged on the frame body 5. Reference numeral 11 denotes a button for performing a reproducing operation, and reference numeral 12 denotes a recording switch for performing a recording operation (see FIG. 2 for the IC memory 3 and the recording switch 12).

The audio data is digital data or analog data including, for example, voices of humans and animals, babbling of rivers, music, and the like. This audio data is used, for example, when the paper of photograph 2 is used as a recording medium. Bottom (below,
It is called "code section". ) 2a is recorded in advance.

In the code section 2a, data (code information) is described in the form of a bar code divided into one or a plurality of stages. The code section 2a may be obtained by converting compressed audio data into image data and then printing the photograph with a commercially available code printer, or pasting the printed matter on a sticker. In this example, a code reader 6, which is optical reading means, is prepared as an input means for taking in audio data recorded in the code section 2a. When recorded as magnetic data, it may be input magnetically.

The code reader 6 is of a so-called hand scanner type. By tracing the code section 2a, image data is scanned. One scan is temporarily stored in a built-in memory (not shown). The data is collectively converted to synthetic sound data including analog sound data. The code reader 6 has a terminal to which an earphone jack can be connected. One end of a connection cable is connected to this terminal, and the other end is connected to the frame body 5, so that the audio from the code reader 6 is output. The data is frame I
The data is stored in the C memory 3.

Also, audio data recorded in advance on a removable disk 7, such as a CD or MD, which is a recording medium separate from the photograph 2, can be imported (see FIG. 3). An audio device 9a as input means for taking in digital audio data recorded on the removable disk 7;
Is used.

The audio equipment 9a is a CD, MD player or the like. When a CD, MD or the like is set and operated for reproduction, digital audio data recorded on the CD, MD or the like is D / A converted and converted to analog. Audio data. The audio equipment 9a is provided with a terminal to which an earphone jack can be connected. One end of the connection cable is connected to this terminal, and the other end is connected to the frame main body 5 so that the audio equipment 9a can convert the audio data. The audio data is taken into the IC memory 3 of the frame 1.

Also, audio data recorded on a recording tape 8 such as a magnetic tape, which is a recording medium separate from the photograph 2, can be taken in (see FIG. 3). Recording tape 8
An audio device 9b such as a tape recorder is used as input means for receiving analog audio data recorded in the audio device. The audio equipment 9b has a terminal to which an earphone jack can be connected. One end of a connection cable is connected to this terminal, and the other end is connected to the frame main body 5 side. The analog audio data which is output is taken into the IC memory 3 of the frame 1 as it is. Further, analog audio data from the microphone 10 is also taken into the IC memory 3 of the frame 1 via the audio equipment 9b or directly.

FIG. 2 shows an example of the structure of the frame main body. The frame main body 5 is, for example, a plate-shaped structure having a rectangular shape and a predetermined thickness, and the front side shown in FIG. A window 5a having a predetermined shape covered with a transparent plate 5b made of glass or acrylic is provided for viewing and protecting the photograph 2 stored in the camera. A speaker 4 for reproducing sound is arranged on the upper left side of the front surface, and a push-type reproduction button 11 for instructing sound reproduction is arranged on the upper right side. In addition,
The volume at the time of reproduction may be fixed, or the volume may be adjusted using a variable resistor or the like on the input side of the speaker 4.

On the back side shown in FIG. 2B, a notch 5c of a predetermined shape is provided for accommodating the photograph 2 therein, and a thin case back cover for closing the notch 5c in an openable and closable manner. 5d
Is provided. A hinge 5e is provided to open and close the back cover 5d to make it easier to take in and out the photograph 2. Rotating claws 5f, 5f are provided on the left and right sides of the frame body 5, and when the back cover 5d is closed, the back cover 5d is rotated by a predetermined angle to securely fix the back cover 5d to the frame body 5. I have.

The back cover 5d is provided with a support plate 5g for supporting the frame body 5 in a slightly inclined state when the frame body 5 is placed on a desk or the like. A slide-type recording switch 12 for inputting audio data from the code reader 6 or the like is provided at a left central portion of the back surface, and a side of the frame body 5 near the recording switch 12 (FIG. 2A). A plug 13 that can be connected to an earphone terminal of the code reader 6 or the like is provided on the lower right side in FIG.

Further, inside the frame body 5, for example, a photograph 2 of a service size is accommodated.
The IC memory 3 is built in a predetermined position near the recording switch 12 arranged on the back side.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a control system of this embodiment. The IC memory 3 is a one-chip microcomputer (IC chip) composed of a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) such as a memory cell or a flip-flop. , RAM (Rando
m-access Memory), a write control unit 32 for controlling input of audio data from the code reader 6 or the like to the storage unit 3b, and a read control for controlling audio output from the storage unit 3b to the speaker 4. Control means 33
And a code reader 6, an A / D conversion circuit 3c and a D / A conversion circuit 3d provided between the speaker 4 and the storage unit 3b, and a control unit 3a for controlling these units. . These units and the like are connected so that power can be supplied from a power source (not shown) such as a battery.

The control section 3a controls the write control section 32 and the read control section 33 to control the input and output of data to and from the storage section 3b. That is, when the control unit 3a receives the ON signal of the recording switch 12 and the audio data as the input signal from the code reader 6 or the like at the time of recording, the control unit 3a sends the code reader 6 or the like to the writing unit 32 at a predetermined address of the storage unit 3b. To A / D conversion circuit 3
The voice data received via c is sequentially written.
When the control unit 3a receives the OFF signal of the recording switch 12 or stops receiving audio data from the code reader 6 or the like, the control unit 3a stops the writing process.

When the control section 3a receives an ON signal from the reproduction button 11 during reproduction, it instructs the reading means 32 to read voice data from the storage section 3b. Since the audio data read from the storage unit 3b is digital data, it is D / A converted by the D / A conversion circuit 3d, sent to the speaker 4, where it is reproduced as audio as analog data. When all the audio data stored in the storage unit 3b has been read, the reproduction ends. The storage unit 3b has a capacity capable of storing audio data of about 5 to 20 seconds as an audio output time.

Hereinafter, the recording / reproducing operation using the frame in the present embodiment will be briefly described. Here, as an example of the recording procedure, a case in which audio data recorded in the code section 2a of the photograph 2 is captured by the code reader 6 will be described. However, the same applies to a case where another recording medium or input means is used. Is omitted. The reproduction procedure is exactly the same in each case.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart for recording using a picture frame. First, a picture 2 and a code reader 6 before being stored in the picture frame 1 are prepared, and the code section 2a of the picture 2 contains, for example, "I will do my best today! Is previously recorded as image data. The code reader 6 traces the code section 2a of the photograph 2 to take in the image data previously stored in the code section 2a into the code reader 6, and stores the image data in the built-in memory of the code reader 6 (step). S1). Then, the earphone terminal of the code reader 6 and the plug 13 of the frame 1 are connected by a connection cable (step S2). However, this connection may be made before step S1.

After the above-described recording preparation work is completed, the data stored in the code reader 6 is converted and output as analog audio data, and the recording switch 12 of the frame 1 is turned on from the point where recording is desired (step S3). Then
Control unit 3a, writing unit 32, and A / D conversion circuit 3c
By such operations, analog voice data is digitized from the code reader 6, taken into the IC memory 3 of the frame 1 (step S4), and stored in the storage unit 3b (step S5). The recording operation ends when all the audio data is taken in from the code reader 6 or when the recording switch 12 is turned off halfway (step S6).

FIG. 5 is a flowchart at the time of reproduction. In this case, the photograph 2 after the recording is stored in the frame 1. First, the reproduction button 11 is turned on (step S1).
1). Then, by the operation of the control unit 3a of the IC memory 3, the reading unit 33, the D / A conversion circuit 3d, and the like, the digital audio data is converted into an analog signal from the storage unit 3b and output (step S12). Then, a sound saying "I'll do my best today!" Is reproduced from the speaker 4 (step S13).

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the IC memory 3 and the speaker 4 are disposed at appropriate positions of the frame main body 5, and the audio data captured from the photograph 2 is stored in the storage unit of the IC memory 3. 3b, and the sound is reproduced by the speaker 4 based on the stored sound data, so that the sound is reproduced with the picture 2 remaining in the frame. Therefore, each time the sound is reproduced, the photograph 2
Need not be taken out of the frame body 5, which is convenient.

In the above embodiment, the IC memory 3 is constituted by a RAM as the storage means of the picture frame 1, so that
Recording and playback are possible, but if the picture frame 1 is for playback only, the IC memory 3 is replaced with a ROM (Read-only Memory).
Although the speaker 4 is used as the reproducing means, an earphone may be used.

The RAM constituting the IC memory 3 is
It may be a dynamic type (DRAM) composed of memory cells or a static type (SRAM) composed of flip-flops. In the former case, power is consumed even when the switch is turned off. Therefore, the frame 1 is suitable for a case where a fixed power supply can be secured by installing the frame 1 at a certain position. This is suitable when a fixed power supply cannot be secured for carrying.

In the above embodiment, the D / A conversion circuit 3d and the A / D conversion circuit 3c are built in the IC memory 3. However, both or one of them is arranged outside the IC memory 3. You may do it.

In the above embodiment, the code reader 6 and the like are used as the input means, and in each case, the analog voice data is taken into the IC memory 3. Therefore, the versatility is required. If not, for example, digital audio data may be taken as it is. In that case, the A / D conversion circuit 3c
Can be omitted.

Further, a personal computer may be interposed between the code reader 6 and the like in the above embodiment and the IC memory 3. In that case, for example, more detailed input control by a personal computer such as address designation of the storage unit 3b of the IC memory 3 can be performed.

In the above embodiment, the frame body 5 is
Although the shape is square, it can be circular or any other shape. Further, the frame main body 5 is not necessarily a support portion 5.
g is not required, and instead, for example, in the case of a wall-hanging type or a hanging type, an appropriate hook fitting or the like may be facilitated.

Further, in the above embodiment, the code portion 2a is provided at the lower portion of the front surface of the photograph 2, but may be provided on the left, right, upper portion, or the like. Good.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, a picture frame capable of accommodating a picture in which audio data is recorded is exemplified, but a picture frame for other pictures may be used. In this case, as described above, the audio data recorded on the removable disk 7 or the recording tape 8 separate from the photograph is transferred to the audio device 9.
a, 9b, etc., the captured audio data is stored in the IC memory 3, and the audio is reproduced from the speaker based on the stored audio data. , The user can enjoy a combination of an arbitrary photograph and an arbitrary sound.

The fetched audio data need not always be singular, but a plurality of audio data are fetched and stored in the IC memory 3 and are reproduced by a selection switch provided on the frame body 5 at the time of reproduction. It may be possible to select a sound to be played. The selection switch may be, for example, a selection switch, or may be a touch switch for selecting a sound by touching the display when the transparent plate 5b on the surface of the frame body 5 has a liquid crystal display function.

Further, in the above embodiment, the picture frame structure for a photograph is illustrated, but the present invention can be applied to, for example, a picture frame structure for a painting.

[0042]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention,
Is a frame structure capable of accommodating a photo in which audio data is recorded, and a storage means for storing audio data captured from the photo; and a reproduction means for reproducing audio based on the stored audio data. Is arranged in the frame main body, so that the sound can be reproduced at any time while the picture remains in the frame. Therefore, it is not necessary to take out the picture from the frame body every time the sound is reproduced, which is convenient.

Further, according to a second aspect of the present invention, a part of the surface of the photograph is used as a recording medium for audio data, and input means for taking in the audio data recorded on the recording medium is provided. Audio data can be easily captured.

Furthermore, the audio data is recorded on a recording medium separate from the photograph, and input means for taking in the recorded audio data and storing it in the storage means is provided. In addition, audio data other than audio data recorded in a photograph can be easily captured.

Further, since the storage means is a semiconductor memory, a sufficient storage capacity can be secured.

Further, the present invention provides a picture frame structure capable of accommodating a photograph, comprising input means for taking in audio data recorded in a recording means separate from the photograph, and Since the storage means for storing and the reproducing means for reproducing the sound based on the stored sound data are arranged in a frame structure characterized by being arranged in the frame main body, the photograph is put in the frame. Sound is played at any time as it is. Thereby, the user can enjoy a combination of an arbitrary photograph and an arbitrary sound.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing a picture frame and peripheral devices according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating an example of the structure of a frame main body according to the embodiment, wherein FIG. 2A is a front view and FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a control system according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a schematic operation at the time of recording using a frame in the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a schematic operation at the time of reproduction by a frame in the embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Picture frame 2 Photograph 2a Code part (recording medium) 3 IC memory (storage means, semiconductor memory) 3a Control part 3b Storage part 3c A / D conversion circuit 3d D / A conversion circuit 4 Speaker (reproduction means) 5 Picture frame main body 6 Code Reader (input means) 7 Removable disk (recording medium) 8 Recording tape (recording medium) 9a, 9b Audio equipment (input means) 10 Microphone 11 Play button 12 Recording switch 13 Plug 32 Writing means 33 Reading means

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A frame structure capable of accommodating a photo on which audio data is recorded, a storage means for storing audio data captured from the photo, and reproducing audio based on the stored audio data. A frame structure, wherein the reproduction means is provided on the frame body. 2. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein a part of the surface of the photograph is a recording medium for audio data, and input means is provided for receiving the audio data recorded on the recording medium. 3. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein the audio data is code information, and the input means is a code reader. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the audio data is recorded on a recording medium separate from the photograph, and input means for fetching the recorded audio data and storing it in the storage means is provided. Picture frame structure. 5. The recording medium includes at least one of a removable disk and a recording tape, and the input means is an audio device that reproduces audio based on audio data recorded on the recording medium. 4. The frame structure according to 4. 6. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein said storage means is a semiconductor memory. 7. A picture frame structure capable of accommodating a photograph,
An input unit that captures audio data recorded in a recording unit separate from the photograph, a storage unit that stores the captured audio data, and a reproduction unit that reproduces audio based on the stored audio data. Is arranged in the frame body.