JP2023024549A - Multiple-languages voice guidance device and method for guiding guidance in multiple languages - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To increase the convenience of a facility.

SOLUTION: The present invention includes: a storage unit for storing a language selected by a voice guidance in using a facility; a determination unit for determining whether the facility is to be continuously used by a user who uses the same language as the language selected for the previous voice guidance stored in the storage unit; and a voice guidance unit for continuing a voice guidance in the previous language stored in the storage unit when the facility is to be used continuously.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

COPYRIGHT: (C)2023,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to a multilingual voice guidance device and a multilingual voice guidance method.

BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, there has been proposed a technique for performing voice guidance in multiple languages in an automatic toilet door (see, for example, Patent Literature 1).

JP 2016-84616 A

However, in the past, it was difficult to improve the convenience of the equipment because the selection of the language used for the voice guidance was complicated and there was a waiting time until the native language was announced.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a multilingual voice guidance device and a multilingual voice guidance method capable of improving facility convenience.

The present invention comprises a storage unit that stores a language selected as a language used for voice guidance when using the facility, and a user using the same language as the selected language stored in the storage unit. a determination unit that determines whether or not the equipment will be used continuously, and if the determination unit determines that the equipment will be used continuously, the equipment in the selected language stored in the storage unit and a voice guidance unit that continues voice guidance.

In the multilingual voice guidance device according to the present invention, the determination unit determines whether or not the facility will be used continuously based on at least one of the usage status of the facility and attribute information of the candidate for using the facility. You can judge.

The present invention includes an operation unit for operating equipment, a voice guidance unit that performs voice guidance prompting a specific operation of the operation unit using a plurality of languages in order, and after the specific operation is performed , selecting the language used when the specific operation is performed as a language used for voice guidance in using the equipment, and providing voice guidance in using the equipment using the selected language to the voice guidance unit and a selection unit for causing a multilingual voice guidance device.

In the multilingual voice guidance system according to the present invention, the facility may be a private room that is opened and closed by a door, and the specific operation may be operation of a push button switch for instructing opening of the door.

In the multilingual voice guidance device according to the present invention, the selection unit prevents an operation following the specific operation from being performed even after a predetermined time has passed since the voice guidance for using the facility using the selected language. If so, the language may be deselected.

The present invention provides a storage unit that stores a language selected as a language used for voice guidance in using equipment, a voice guidance unit that performs the voice guidance using a plurality of languages, and the storage unit among the plurality of languages. change the order of the plurality of languages so that the selected language stored in the first language is used first to provide the voice guidance, and change the order of causing the voice guidance unit to perform the voice guidance in the changed order. and a multilingual voice guidance device.

In the multilingual voice guidance device according to the present invention, the order changing unit may change the order of the plurality of languages to the newest language selected for the voice guidance in the past.

The present invention comprises the step of storing in a storage unit a language selected as a language used for voice guidance in the use of the facility; a step of determining whether or not the facility is used continuously; and a step of continuing the voice guidance in the previously selected language stored in the storage unit when the facility is used continuously. , is a multilingual voice guidance method.

According to the present invention, a step of performing voice guidance prompting a specific operation of an operation unit for operating equipment by sequentially using a plurality of languages; selecting the language used when using the facility as the language used for voice guidance in using the facility; and performing voice guidance in using the facility using the selected language. It is a guidance method.

The present invention comprises a step of storing in a storage unit a language selected as a language used for voice guidance when using equipment, a step of performing the voice guidance using a plurality of languages, and a step of performing the voice guidance using a plurality of languages; changing the order of the plurality of languages to provide the voice guidance using the selected language stored first; and providing the voice guidance in the changed order. It is a multilingual voice guidance method.

ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the convenience of equipment can be improved.

1 is a block diagram showing a multilingual voice guidance device according to a first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the first embodiment; 10 is a flow chart showing a first specific example of determining whether or not a user who speaks the same language as the previous language continues to use the facility in the operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the first embodiment; . 10 is a flowchart showing a second specific example of determining whether or not a user who speaks the same language as the previous language continues to use the facility in the operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the first embodiment; . 10 is a flow chart showing a third specific example of determining whether or not a user who speaks the same language as the previous language continues to use the facility in the operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the first embodiment. . FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a multilingual voice guidance device according to a second embodiment; FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the second embodiment; FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a multilingual voice guidance device according to a first modification of the second embodiment; FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the first modified example of the second embodiment; FIG. 11 is a plan view showing a multifunctional toilet to which a multilingual voice guidance device according to a second modification of the second embodiment is applied; FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a multifunctional toilet door including a multilingual voice guidance device according to a second modification of the second embodiment; 10 is a flow chart showing an operation example of a multifunctional toilet door including a multilingual voice guidance device according to a second modification of the second embodiment; 14 is a flow chart showing an operation example of a multifunctional toilet door including a multilingual voice guidance device according to a third modification of the second embodiment; FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing an operation example of a multifunctional toilet door including a multilingual voice guidance device according to a fourth modification of the second embodiment; FIG. FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing an operation example of a multifunctional toilet door including a multilingual voice guidance device according to a fifth modification of the second embodiment; FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a multilingual voice guidance device according to a third embodiment; 9 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device according to the third embodiment;

(First embodiment)
A multilingual voice guidance device that continues voice guidance in the same language as the previous language will be described in detail below as a first embodiment of the present invention with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG. A plurality of embodiments shown below are examples of embodiments of the present invention, and the present invention should not be construed as being limited to these embodiments. Moreover, in the drawings referred to in each embodiment, the same reference numerals or similar reference numerals are given to the same portions or portions having similar functions, and repeated description thereof may be omitted. Also, the dimensional ratios in the drawings may differ from the actual ratios for convenience of explanation, and a part of the configuration may be omitted from the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first embodiment. The multilingual voice guidance device 1 can be used for voice guidance when using facilities. At least part of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 may be incorporated in the facility as a component of the facility, or may be configured separately from the facility.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the multilingual voice guidance device 1 includes a storage section 2 , a voice data storage section 20 , a determination section 3 and a voice guidance section 4 .

The voice data storage unit 20 stores voice guidance messages in multiple languages. In the example of FIG. 1, the multiple languages are Japanese (JP), English (US), Chinese (CN) and Korean (KR). The voice data storage unit 20 may store voice guidance messages in languages other than these four languages.

The storage unit 2 stores the language selected for the voice guidance when using the facility.

Here, the facilities are, for example, toilets, shower rooms, private rooms other than toilets and shower rooms, or vending machines. The cubicle door can be either manual or automatic as long as voice guidance is provided.

Also, voice guidance in the use of facilities is to guide users by voice about the location of the facilities, the usage of the facilities, how to use the facilities such as the procedures for using the facilities, and the usage status of the facilities. As will be described later, voice guidance is provided by the voice guidance section 4 .

Also, the language selected for the voice guidance is one of the multiple languages in which the voice guidance message is stored in the voice data storage unit 20 . The operation of storing the language selected for the voice guidance in the storage unit 2 is performed by the determination unit 3 as will be described later. Selection of the language used for voice guidance is performed by the voice guidance unit 4 based on language selection information, as will be described later.

The determination unit 3 determines whether or not the facility is continuously used by the user using the same language as the previous language selected for the voice guidance in the previous use of the facility stored in the storage unit 2 . The determination section 3 outputs the determination result to the voice guidance section 4 .

More specifically, based on at least one of the usage status of the facility and the attribute information of the candidate for using the facility, the determination unit 3 determines whether the facility is continuously used by users who speak the same language as the previous language. Determine whether or not

In the example of FIG. 1 , the judgment as to whether or not the facility is continuously used by the user who speaks the same language as the previous language is made based on the judgment information input to the judgment section 3 . The determination information may be information input from outside the multilingual voice guidance device 1 or may be information generated by the multilingual voice guidance device 1 .

The determination information may be a country code signal indicating the nationality of group passengers from the terminal of the airport facility, as an example of the attribute information of the facility user candidates. In this case, if there is no change in the country code signal, the decision unit 3 decides that the facility is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language. If so, it is determined that the facility is not continuously used by a user using the same language as the previous language.

Further, the determination information may be, as an example of the usage status of the facility, the duration of the idle state of the facility from the end of the previous use of the facility, that is, the interruption time. In this case, the determining unit 3 determines that if the start of use of a new facility is instructed before the continuation time of the idle state reaches the predetermined time, the facility will continue to be used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language. On the other hand, when the start of use of the facility is not instructed before the continuation time of the idle state reaches the predetermined time, the facility is not continuously used by the user who speaks the same language as the previous language. I judge.

Further, the determination information may be an operation signal of a continuation button for inputting continuation of use of the facility, as an example of the usage status of the facility. The continuation button may be an open button for instructing the opening of the facility door or a blinking close push button for instructing the closing of the facility door. In this case, when the operation signal is input, the determination unit 3 determines that the facility is continuously used by the user who speaks the same language as the previous language. It is determined that the facility is not continuously used by a user using the same language as the previous language. Further, when determining that the facility is continuously used by a user who uses the same language as the previous language, the determination section 3 causes the storage section 2 to store the language selected for the voice guidance in the use of the facility.

Based on the language selection information input to the voice guidance unit 4, the voice guidance unit 4 selects a language to be used for voice guidance when using the facility from among a plurality of languages in which voice guidance messages are stored in the voice data storage unit 20. to select. Then, the voice guide unit 4 uses the selected language to provide voice guidance for use of the facility.

Here, the language selection information is judgment information of a language judgment device that automatically judges the user's language based on the user's country code signal, etc. good too.

Further, when the judgment unit 3 judges that the facility is continuously used by the user who speaks the same language as the previous language, the voice guidance unit 4 uses the previous language stored in the storage unit 2. continue voice guidance when using the facilities.

On the other hand, when the determination unit 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language does not use the facility continuously, the voice guidance unit 4 stores the voice guidance message in the voice data storage unit 20. Voice guidance may be provided to prompt the user to select a new language by sequentially using multiple languages.

The determination unit 3 and the voice guidance unit 4 are configured by hardware such as a CPU, for example. At least part of the determination unit 3 and the voice guide unit 4 may be configured by software. Some components of the determination unit 3 and the voice guidance unit 4 may be able to cooperate with other components by communication through a network. Some of the components of the determination unit 3 and the voice guidance unit 4 may be located on a device capable of communicating with other components through an external network, such as a cloud server or database. The storage unit 2 and the voice data storage unit 20 can be composed of various storage devices such as a hard disk drive, RAM, and flash memory.

(Operation example)
Next, an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first embodiment. The flow chart of FIG. 2 is repeated as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 2, first, based on the language selection information, the voice guidance unit 4 selects a plurality of languages in which the voice guidance messages are stored in the voice data storage unit 20, and uses them for voice guidance when using the facility. Select a language (step S1).

After selecting the language to be used for voice guidance, the determination unit 3 stores the selected language in the storage unit 2, and the voice guidance unit 4 thereafter provides voice guidance in the use of the facility in the selected language (step S2).

Next, the determination unit 3 determines whether or not the use of the equipment has ended, based on operation information of the operation buttons of the equipment, control signals from the control unit that controls the equipment, and the like (step S3).

When the use of the facility has ended (step S3: Yes), the determination unit 3 starts using the new facility based on the operation information of the operation button of the facility, the control signal of the control unit that controls the facility, and the like. It is determined whether or not (step S4).

On the other hand, if the use of the equipment has not ended (step S3: No), the determination unit 3 repeats the determination of whether or not the use of the equipment has ended (step S3).

When the use of the new equipment starts (step S4: Yes), the determination unit 3 determines whether the equipment is continuously used by users who use the same language as the previous language stored in the storage unit 2. is determined (step S5).

On the other hand, when the use of the new equipment does not start (step S4: No), the determination unit 3 repeats the determination of whether or not the use of the new equipment starts (step S4).

Here, FIG. 3 shows the first example of the operation of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first embodiment, regarding the determination of whether or not the user who speaks the same language as the previous language continues to use the facility. It is a flow chart showing a specific example of. In the example of FIG. 3, first, the determination unit 3 acquires a country code signal indicating the nationality of group passengers from the terminal (server) of the airport facility as determination information (step S5-a1). After obtaining the country code signal, the determination section 3 determines whether or not there is a change in the country code signal (step S5-a2). If there is no change in the country code signal (step S5-a2: No), the determination section 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language will continue to use the facility (step S5: Yes). On the other hand, if there is a change in the country code signal (step S5-a2: Yes), the determination unit 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language does not continuously use the facility (step S5: No ).

FIG. 4 shows a second specific example of determining whether or not a user who speaks the same language as the previous language will continue to use the facility in the operation example of the multilingual voice guidance system according to the first embodiment. It is a flow chart showing. In the example of FIG. 4, the determination unit 3 first acquires, as determination information, the duration of the idle state of the facility from the end of the previous use of the facility (step S5-b1). After acquiring the duration of the idle state, the determination unit 3 determines whether or not an instruction to start using a new facility has been issued before the duration of the idle state reaches a predetermined time (step S5-b2). When the instruction to start using a new facility is given (step S5-b2: Yes), the determination unit 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language will continuously use the facility (step S5: Yes). . On the other hand, if no instruction to start using a new facility has been given (step S5-b2: No), the determination unit 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language does not continuously use the facility (step S5: No).

FIG. 5 shows a third specific example of determining whether or not a user who speaks the same language as the previous language continues to use the facility in the operation example of the multilingual voice guidance system according to the first embodiment. It is a flow chart showing. In the example of FIG. 5, first, the determination unit 3 acquires the input state of the operation signal of the facility use continuation button as determination information (step S5-c1). After acquiring the input state of the operation signal of the continuation button, the determination section 3 determines whether or not the operation signal has been input (step S5-c2). When the operation signal is input (step S5-c2: Yes), the determination unit 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language continuously uses the facility (step S5: Yes). On the other hand, if no operation signal has been input (step S5-c2: No), the determination unit 3 determines that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language does not continuously use the facility (step S5: No). .

If the facility is continuously used by a user who uses the same language as the previous language (step S5: Yes), as shown in FIG. continue the voice guidance (step S6).

On the other hand, if the facility is not continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous one (step S5: No), the voice guidance section 4 provides voice guidance using multiple languages to prompt the user to select a new language. The voice guidance prompting the user to select a new language is, for example, "This is a multifunctional toilet. To use it, press the flashing push-button switch." Korean) may be performed in order.

After performing the voice guidance prompting the user to select a new language, the voice guidance section 4 determines whether or not a new language has been selected (step S8).

If there is a new language selection (step S8: Yes), the determination unit 3 stores the selected new language in the storage unit 2, and the voice guide unit 4 instructs the user to use the facility in the selected new language. is performed (step S2).

On the other hand, if there is no new language selection (step S8: No), the voice guidance section 4 repeats the determination of whether or not there is a new language selection (step S8).

According to the first embodiment, when the facility is continuously used by users using the same language as the previous language, the voice guidance in the previous language can be continued. As a result, it is possible to save the trouble of selecting the language of the voice guidance when using the same language as the previous language. can improve the convenience of

(Second embodiment)
Next, as a second embodiment of the present invention, a multilingual voice guidance device 1 that performs voice guidance prompting a specific operation using multiple languages will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 15. FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second embodiment. A multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second embodiment includes an operation unit 5 and a selection unit 6 instead of the determination unit 3 of the first embodiment.

The operation unit 5 is a configuration for operating equipment. The operation unit 5 is connected to an operation target of equipment, and operates the equipment by inputting an operation signal to the operation target and operating the operation target. An operation signal of the operation unit 5 is also input to the selection unit 6 in order to detect that a specific operation of the operation unit 5 has been performed.

The operation unit 5 may be, for example, a dedicated button for selecting a language, a button that doubles as a door open button, a coin slot of a vending machine, or an IC card reader of a vending machine.

The voice guidance section 4 uses a plurality of languages in order to provide voice guidance for prompting a specific operation of the operation section 5 .

A specific operation when the facility is a toilet is, for example, an announcement saying, "This is a multifunctional toilet. To use it, press the flashing push button switch." The process may be understanding an announcement in your native language and pressing a push button switch.

Specific operations when the facility is a vending machine include, for example, announcements such as "If you use a vending machine, please insert a coin into the coin slot." Please touch your IC card." is being announced in multiple languages in sequence. may be

Based on the operation signal from the operation unit 5, the selection unit 6 detects that a specific operation has been performed. After the specific operation is performed, the selection unit 6 selects the language used when the specific operation is performed as the language used for voice guidance in using the facility, and uses the selected language. The voice guidance section 4 is caused to provide voice guidance in the use of the facility.

The selection unit 6 is configured by hardware such as a CPU, for example. At least part of the selection unit 6 may be configured by software. A part of the selection unit 6 may be capable of cooperating with other components by communication through a network. Also, the selection unit 6 may be partly located on a device capable of communicating with other components through an external network, such as a cloud server or database.

(Operation example)
Next, an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 7 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second embodiment. The flow chart of FIG. 7 is repeated as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 7, first, the voice guidance section 4 performs voice guidance prompting a specific operation of the operation section 5 using a plurality of languages in a predetermined order (step S11).

After the voice guidance prompting the specific operation is performed, the selection unit 6 determines whether or not the specific operation has been performed based on the operation signal from the operation unit 5 (step S12).

If the specific operation has been performed (step S12: Yes), the selection unit 6 selects the language that was announced when the specific operation was performed as the language to be used for voice guidance when using the facility (step S13 ).

On the other hand, if the specific operation has not been performed (step S12: No), the selection unit 6 repeats the determination of whether or not the specific operation has been performed (step S12).

After the language to be used for the voice guidance is selected, the voice guidance unit 4 thereafter provides voice guidance for use of the facility in the selected language (step S14).

According to the second embodiment, a specific operation performed by the user who has heard the native language while the native language is being announced can be accepted as a new language selection, reducing the effort required for language selection. It is possible to improve the convenience of the facility. In addition, according to the second embodiment, since the operation unit of the existing equipment is used, there is no need for equipment for new language selection (for example, national flag push button switches, etc.), and costs can be reduced. can.

(First modification)
Next, as a first modification of the second embodiment, a multilingual voice guidance system 1 combined with the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG. FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to a first modification of the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first modification of the second embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 8, the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first modification further includes the storage unit 2 and the determination unit 3 explained in the first embodiment in addition to the configuration shown in FIG. The configurations and operations of the storage unit 2 and the determination unit 3 are as already described in the first embodiment.

The multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the first modified example operates according to the flowchart of FIG. 9, for example. The flowchart of FIG. 9 is repeated as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 9, first, the multilingual voice guidance device 1 executes the operations of steps S1 to S6 already explained with reference to FIG. In the process, when it is determined in step S5 that the user who speaks the same language as the previous language does not continuously use the facility (step S5: No), the multilingual voice guidance device 1 is already explained in FIG. Then, the execution of steps S11 to S13 is performed.

According to the first modification, even when it is determined that there is no continuous use of the facility by a user who speaks the same language as the previous one, and therefore a new language selection is required, the effort for language selection is reduced and convenience is achieved. can ensure the integrity of the

(Second modification)
Next, as a second modified example of the second embodiment, a multilingual voice guidance device 1 that provides voice guidance when using a toilet, which is an example of a private room, will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12. FIG.

FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a multifunctional toilet 7 to which the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second modification of the second embodiment is applied. FIG. 11 is a block diagram of a multifunctional toilet door including a multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to a second modification of the second embodiment. The multilingual voice guidance device 1 constitutes a part of the multifunctional toilet 7 .

As shown in FIG. 10 , the multifunctional toilet 7 includes a toilet 8 , a toilet bowl 9 placed in the toilet 8 , a diaper changing table 10 , an internal push button switch 11 and an auxiliary sensor 12 , and an opening/closing mechanism for the toilet 8 . an automatic door 13 that opens and closes, and an external push button switch 51 and a selected language continuation button 14 that are an example of the operation unit 5 arranged outside the toilet 8 . As will be described later, the internal pushbutton switch 11, the external pushbutton switch 51, and the selected language continuation button 14 constitute a part of the multilingual voice guidance device 1. FIG. The configuration of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 other than the internal pushbutton switch 11, the external pushbutton switch 51, and the selected language continuation button 14 is omitted from FIG.

The internal push button switch 11 is a push button switch for instructing opening or closing of the automatic door 13 in the toilet 8 . As shown in FIG. 11, the internal pushbutton switch 11 includes an open switch (hereinafter also referred to as an internal pushbutton open switch) 11a for instructing the opening of the automatic door 13 in the toilet 8, and an internal pushbutton open switch 11a. and a speaker Sin for outputting voice guidance into the toilet 8 . The internal pushbutton switch 11 may be, for example, an LED illuminated pushbutton switch in which the internal pushbutton open switch 11a and the internal pushbutton close switch 11b are illuminated with LED light.

The external push button switch 51 is a push button switch for instructing opening or closing of the automatic door 13 outside the toilet 8 . As shown in FIG. 11, the external pushbutton switch 51 includes an open switch (hereinafter also referred to as an external pushbutton open switch) 51a for instructing the opening of the automatic door 13 outside the toilet 8, and an external pushbutton switch 51a. , a close switch (hereinafter also referred to as an external push button close switch) 51b for instructing closing of the automatic door 13, and a speaker Sout for outputting voice guidance to the outside of the toilet 8. The external push button switch 51 may also be an LED illumination type push button switch in which the external push button open switch 51a and the external push button close switch 51b are illuminated with LED light.

The auxiliary sensor 12 is a sensor for detecting entry or exit of the user to the toilet 8 by detecting that the user has crossed the opening of the automatic door 13 . The auxiliary sensor 12 may be, for example, a photoelectric sensor.

The selected language continuation button 14 is a button for instructing voice guidance in the same language as the previous language.

As shown in FIG. 11, the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second modification includes an internal push-button switch 11, an external push-button switch 51, and a selected language continuation button 14, which constitute the multifunctional toilet 7 shown in FIG. In addition, an operation unit controller 15 is provided. The operation unit controller 15 includes a timer 16 , a control unit 100 , a storage unit 2 and an audio data storage unit 20 . The operating unit controller 15 is connected to the internal pushbutton switch 11 , the external pushbutton switch 51 , the selected language continuation button 14 and the door controller 17 . The door controller 17 is connected to a door engine 18 , an electric lock 19 and an auxiliary sensor 12 that constitute the multifunctional toilet 7 in addition to the operation unit controller 15 .

The operating unit controller 15 controls lighting of the internal pushbutton switch 11 and the external pushbutton switch 51 and voice guidance via the speakers Sin and Sout.

The timer 16 outputs a down-count value indicating the elapsed time since the automatic door 13 closed as the continuous time (judgment information) of the empty state of the multifunctional toilet 7 from the end of the last use of the multifunctional toilet 7. do.

The control unit 100 operates as a determination unit and determines whether or not the external push button open switch 51a is operated before the value of the timer 16 becomes zero corresponding to the duration of the predetermined time. If the external push button open switch 51a is operated before the value of the timer 16 reaches zero, the controller 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the last time. judge. On the other hand, if the external push button open switch 51a is not operated before the value of the timer 16 reaches zero, the control unit 100 allows the multifunctional toilet 7 to be used continuously by a user who speaks the same language as the previous one. determined not to.

Further, the control unit 100, as an operation as a determination unit, determines whether or not the auxiliary sensor 12 has been turned on two or more times after the automatic door 13 is opened and before the external push button close switch 51b is operated. . This determination corresponds to determination of whether or not a user who has been using the multifunctional toilet 7 with the automatic door 13 opened has left the room and a new user has entered the room in quick succession. When the auxiliary sensor 12 is turned on two or more times, the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language. On the other hand, if the auxiliary sensor 12 has not been turned on two or more times, the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is not continuously used by users who speak the same language as the previous language.

The control unit 100 also operates as a voice guidance unit, and when the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language, the previous language stored in the storage unit 2 is displayed. continue the voice guidance in the use of the multifunctional toilet 7 by.

On the other hand, when the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is not continuously used by a user who uses the same language as the previous language, the control unit 100 sequentially uses a plurality of languages and performs an external push button operation as a specific operation. A voice guidance prompting the operation of the open switch 51a is performed.

The control unit 100 also operates as a selection unit, and after the external push-button open switch 51a is operated during voice guidance prompting the operation of the external push-button open switch 51a, the external push-button open switch 51a is operated. The language used at the time of use is selected as the language used for voice guidance when using the multifunctional toilet 7. Then, the control unit 100 provides voice guidance in the selected language.

The electric lock 19 locks the automatic door 13 after the automatic door 13 closes and unlocks the automatic door 13 before the automatic door 13 opens.

A door engine 18 drives the automatic door 13 . Door engine 18 may be, for example, a motor.

The door controller 17 controls driving of the automatic door 13 by controlling the door engine 18 . The door controller 17 also controls the operation of the electric lock 19 . Further, the door controller 17 detects the entrance and exit of the user to the toilet 8 based on the detection signal of the auxiliary sensor 12 .

(Operation example)
Next, an operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second modification of the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the second modification of the second embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 12 is repeated as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 12, the door controller 17 first enters a standby state in which the door engine 18 closes the automatic door 13 (step S21).

In the standby state, the control unit 100 operates as a voice guidance unit, and based on the language selection information described in the first embodiment, selects a voice guidance message from multiple languages stored in the voice data storage unit 20. , selects the language to be used for voice guidance when using the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S1).

After selecting the language to be used for voice guidance, the control unit 100 operates as a voice guidance unit, stores the selected language in the storage unit 2, and thereafter provides voice guidance in the use of the multifunctional toilet 7 in the selected language. (step S2).

Next, the control section 100 determines whether or not the external push button open switch 51a has been operated (step S22).

When the external push button open switch 51a is operated (step S22: Yes), the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to operate to open the automatic door 13 (step S23). On the other hand, if the external pushbutton open switch 51a has not been operated (step S22: No), the control unit 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the external pushbutton open switch 51a has been operated (step S22).

After the automatic door 13 is opened, the controller 100 determines whether the internal push button close switch 11b has been operated (step S24).

When the internal push button close switch 11b is operated (step S24: Yes), the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to close the automatic door 13 (step S25). On the other hand, if the internal push-button close switch 11b has not been operated (step S24: No), the control unit 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the internal push-button close switch 11b has been operated (step S24).

After the automatic door 13 is closed, the door controller 17 causes the electric lock 19 to lock the automatic door 13 (step S26).

After the automatic door 13 is locked and the use of the multifunctional toilet 7 is detected (step S27), the control unit 100 operates as a determination unit and determines whether the internal push button open switch 11a has been operated ( Step S3-a). This determination is an example of the determination (step S3) as to whether or not the use of the facilities described in the first embodiment has ended.

When the internal push button open switch 11a is operated (step S3-a: Yes), the door controller 17 causes the electric lock 19 to unlock the automatic door 13 (step S28). On the other hand, if the internal pushbutton open switch 11a has not been operated (step S3-a: No), the control section 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the internal pushbutton open switch 11a has been operated (step S3-a).

After the automatic door 13 is unlocked, the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to open the automatic door 13 (step S29).

After the automatic door 13 is opened, the control section 100 operates as a determination section and determines whether or not the auxiliary sensor 12 has been turned on two or more times (step S5-d). This determination is an example of determination (step S5) as to whether or not the facility is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language described in the first embodiment.

When the auxiliary sensor 12 is turned on two or more times (step S5-d: Yes), the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by users who speak the same language as the previous language. Then, the control unit 100 operates as a voice guidance unit and continues the voice guidance in the previous language stored in the storage unit 2 (step S6).

On the other hand, if the auxiliary sensor 12 has not turned on two or more times (step S5-d: No), the control section 100 determines whether or not the external push button close switch 51b has been operated (step S30).

When the external push button close switch 51b is operated (step S30: Yes), the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to close the automatic door 13 (step S31). On the other hand, if the external push button close switch 51b has not been operated (step S30: No), the control section 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the auxiliary sensor 12 has been turned on two or more times (step S5-d).

After the automatic door 13 is closed, the timer 16 starts counting down (step S32).

After the down-counting is started, the control section 100 operates as a determination section and determines whether or not the external push button open switch 51a has been operated (step S5-e). This determination is an example of determination (step S5) as to whether or not the facility is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language described in the first embodiment.

When the external push button open switch 51a is operated (step S5-e: Yes), the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by users who speak the same language as the previous language. . Then, the control section 100 operates as a voice guidance section and continues the voice guidance in the previous language stored in the storage section 2 (step S6-a).

On the other hand, if the external push button open switch 51a has not been operated (step S5-e: No), the controller 100 determines whether the value of the timer 16 is zero (step S33).

When the value of the timer 16 is zero (step S33: Yes), the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is not continuously used by users who speak the same language as the previous language. Then, the control section 100 operates as a voice guidance section, and performs voice guidance prompting the operation of the external push button open switch 51a using a plurality of languages in order (step S11-a).

On the other hand, if the value of the timer 16 is not zero (step S33: No), the control section 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the external push button open switch 51a has been operated (step S5-e).

After the voice guidance prompting the operation of the external pushbutton open switch 51a, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the external pushbutton open switch 51a has been operated (step S12-a).

When the external push button open switch 51a is operated (step S12-a: Yes), the control unit 100 operates as a selection unit, and selects the language announced when the external push button open switch 51a is operated. It is selected as the language to be used for voice guidance when using the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S13-a). Then, the control unit 100 stores the selected language in the storage unit 2, and thereafter performs voice guidance in the selected language (step S2a).

On the other hand, if the external pushbutton open switch 51a has not been operated (step S12-a: No), the control section 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the external pushbutton open switch 51a has been operated (step S12-a). .

According to the second modification of the second embodiment, when the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language, voice guidance in the previous language is continued. be able to. As a result, it is possible to omit the trouble of selecting the language of the voice guidance when the same language as the previous language is used. Therefore, the convenience of the multifunctional toilet 7 can be improved.

In addition, since the operation of the external push button open switch 51a performed by the user who has heard the native language while the native language is being announced can be accepted as selection of a new language, the effort required for language selection can be reduced. , the convenience of the multifunctional toilet 7 can be further improved.

In addition, even when it is determined that there is no continuous use of the multifunctional toilet 7 by a user who speaks the same language as the previous one, and therefore a new language selection is required, the effort for language selection can be reduced and the multifunctional toilet 7 can be used. Convenience can be ensured.

(Third modification)
Next, as a third modified example of the second embodiment, another operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 shown in FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the third modification of the second embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 13 is repeated as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 13, the control unit 100 determines whether or not an external signal is received in the standby state (step S41). The external signal may be, for example, a user's country code signal transmitted from an airport center or a bus terminal center, or a country code signal indicating the language used by other nearby automatic doors.

When an external signal is received (step S41: Yes), the control unit 100 selects the language indicated by the external signal as the language used for voice guidance when using the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S1-a).

After selecting the language to be used for voice guidance, the control section 100 operates as a voice guidance section and uses the selected language to provide voice guidance for use of the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S2-a).

Next, upon detection of entry into the toilet 8 (step S42), use of the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S43), and exit from the toilet 8 (step S44), the controller 100 receives an external signal. The determination as to whether or not it has been performed is repeated (step S41).

On the other hand, if no external signal is received (step S41: No), the control unit 100 executes steps S11-a, S12-a, and S13-a already described with reference to FIG.

According to the third modification of the second embodiment, by automatically selecting the language of the voice guidance based on the external signal, it is possible to save the trouble of selecting the language of the voice guidance. This simplifies the selection of the language used for voice guidance when using the multifunctional toilet 7 and improves the convenience of the multifunctional toilet 7 . In addition, by selecting the language used for voice guidance when the external push button open switch 51a is operated, labor for language selection can be reduced even when language selection is required due to no external signal being received. As a result, the convenience of the multifunctional toilet 7 can be ensured.

(Fourth modification)
Next, as a fourth modification of the second embodiment, another operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 shown in FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the fourth modification of the second embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 14 is repeated as necessary.

In the fourth modification, after language selection (step S1) in the standby state (step S21), the control unit 100 provides voice guidance in the selected language (step S2-a).

Next, upon detection of entry into the toilet 8 (step S42), use of the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S43), and exit from the toilet 8 (step S44), the control unit 100 operates as a determination unit. Then, it is determined whether or not the selected language continuation button 14 has been operated (step S51). This determination is an example of determination (step S5) as to whether or not the facility is continuously used by a user who speaks the same language as the previous language described in the first embodiment.

When the selected language continuation button 14 is operated (step S51: Yes), the control unit 100 determines that the multifunctional toilet 7 is continuously used by users who use the same language as the previous language. Then, the control unit 100 operates as a voice guidance unit, selects the previous language stored in the storage unit 2 as a language to be used for voice guidance, and performs voice guidance in the selected language (step S2-a).

On the other hand, if the selected language continuation button 14 has not been operated (step S51: No), the control unit 100 executes steps S11-a, S12-a, and S13-a already explained with reference to FIG. do.

According to the fourth modification of the second embodiment, by operating the selected language continuation button 14, the voice guidance in the previous language can be continued. The convenience of the toilet 7 can be improved. In addition, by selecting the language used when the external push button open switch 51a is operated as the language used for voice guidance, the language can be selected even when a new language selection is required because the selected language continuation button 14 was not operated. , and the convenience of the multifunctional toilet 7 can be ensured.

(Fifth Modification)
Next, as a fifth modification of the second embodiment, another operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 shown in FIG. 11 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multifunctional toilet door including the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the fifth modification of the second embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 15 is repeated as necessary.

The flowchart of FIG. 15 can be combined with each of the second, third and fourth modifications of the second embodiment. Specifically, the initial state of the flowchart of FIG. 15 is when the value of the timer 16 is zero in FIG. 12 (step S33: Yes), and when no external signal is received in FIG. 13 (step S41: No). , or when the selected language continuation button 14 is not operated in FIG. 14 (step S51: No).

From the initial state, the control unit 100 first operates as a voice guidance unit, and performs voice guidance prompting the operation of the external push button open switch 51a using a plurality of languages in order (step S11-a).

After providing the voice guidance prompting the user to operate the external pushbutton open switch 51a, the control section 100 operates as a selection section and determines whether or not the external pushbutton open switch 51a has been operated (step S12-a).

When the external push button open switch 51a is operated (step S12-a: Yes), the control unit 100 operates as a selection unit, and selects the language announced when the external push button open switch 51a is operated. It is selected as the language to be used for voice guidance when using the multifunctional toilet 7 (step S13-a).

On the other hand, if the external pushbutton open switch 51a has not been operated (step S12-a: No), the control section 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the external pushbutton open switch 51a has been operated (step S12-a). .

After selecting the language of the voice guidance, the control section 100 operates as a voice guidance section, and thereafter provides voice guidance for use of the multifunctional toilet 7 in the selected language (step S2-a).

Next, the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to open the automatic door 13 (step S61).

After the automatic door 13 is operated to open, the control unit 100 functions as a selection unit, and even after a predetermined time has passed since the voice guidance for using the multifunctional toilet 7 using the selected language, the external push button open switch is kept open. If the operation following the operation of 51a is not performed, the language selection is canceled.

Specifically, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the internal pushbutton close switch 11b has been operated as the operation subsequent to the operation of the external pushbutton open switch 51a (step S62).

When the internal push button close switch 11b is operated (step S62: Yes), the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to close the automatic door 13 (step S64).

On the other hand, if the internal push button close switch 11b has not been operated (step S62: No), the control section 100 determines whether or not a predetermined period of time has elapsed (step S63).

If the predetermined time has passed (step S63: Yes), the control unit 100 cancels the language selection in step S13-a, and prompts the user to operate the internal push button close switch 11b by using multiple languages in order. Voice guidance is provided (step S65).

After the voice guidance prompting the operation of the internal push-button close switch 11b, the control unit 100 determines whether the internal push-button close switch 11b has been operated (step S66).

When the internal push-button close switch 11b is operated (step S66: Yes), the control unit 100 operates as a selection unit and replaces the language announced when the internal push-button close switch 11b is operated with a new language. (step S67).

On the other hand, if the internal pushbutton close switch 11b has not been operated (step S66: No), the control unit 100 repeats determination as to whether or not the internal pushbutton close switch 11b has been operated (step S66).

After selecting the language of the voice guidance, the control unit 100 subsequently provides voice guidance in the selected language (step S68).

Next, the door controller 17 causes the door engine 18 to close the automatic door 13 (step S69).

According to the fifth modification of the second embodiment, even if a language other than the native language is selected by mistake, the language selection can be canceled and the opportunity to select the native language can be given. The convenience of the functional toilet 7 can be further improved.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment will be described in which voice guidance in the previous language is performed first in voice guidance in a plurality of languages.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the third embodiment includes an order changing section 200 instead of the determination section 3 of the first embodiment.

The voice guidance section 4 uses multiple languages in sequence to provide voice guidance for use of the facility.

The order changing unit 200 selects a plurality of languages (voice message). Then, the order changing unit 200 causes the voice guidance unit 4 to perform voice guidance for using the equipment in the changed order.

The order changing unit 200 may change the order of multiple languages used for voice guidance to the newest language selected for past voice guidance. In this case, for example, out of the four languages of Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean, the voice guidance in the language selected last time is provided first, and the voice guidance in the language selected two last times is provided second. Then, the voice guidance in the language selected one time before the last is performed third, and the voice guidance in the language that was never selected is performed fourth.

The order changing unit 200 is configured by hardware such as a CPU, for example. At least part of the order changing unit 200 may be configured by software. A part of the sequence changing unit 200 may be able to cooperate with other components by communication through a network. Further, the sequence changing unit 200 may be partly located on a device capable of communicating with other components through an external network, such as a cloud server or database.

The multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the third embodiment operates according to the flowchart of FIG. 17, for example. FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing an operation example of the multilingual voice guidance device 1 according to the third embodiment. The flowchart of FIG. 17 is repeated as necessary.

As shown in FIG. 17, first, based on the language selection information, the voice guidance unit 4 selects a plurality of languages in which the voice guidance messages are stored in the voice data storage unit 20, and uses them for voice guidance when using the facility. Select a language (step S1).

After selecting the language to be used for voice guidance, the voice guidance section 4 stores the selected language in the storage section 2, and thereafter provides voice guidance for use of the facility in the selected language (step S2).

Next, the voice guidance section 4 determines whether or not the use of the facility has ended based on the operation information of the operation button of the facility, the control signal of the control section that controls the facility, and the like (step S3).

When the use of the facility has ended (step S3: Yes), the voice guidance unit 4 starts using the new facility based on the operation information of the operation button of the facility, the control signal of the control unit that controls the facility, and the like. It is determined whether or not to do so (step S4).

If the use of the equipment has not ended (step S3: No), the determination unit 3 repeats the determination of whether or not the use of the equipment has ended (step S3).

When the use of a new facility starts (step S4: Yes), the order changing unit 200 changes the order of the multiple languages used for the voice guidance so that the previous language stored in the storage unit 2 is the first voice guidance. is changed (step S71). This step may be executed when the selected language is stored in the storage unit 2 (step S2).

On the other hand, if the use of the new equipment does not start (step S4: No), the voice guidance unit 4 repeats the determination of whether or not the use of the new equipment starts (step S4).

After changing the order of the multiple languages, the voice guidance section 4 provides voice guidance for facility use using multiple languages according to the changed order (step S72).

According to the third embodiment, when performing voice guidance in using the facility using multiple languages, by performing the first voice guidance in the language selected in the previous use of the facility, for example, group customers etc. When a user who speaks the same language as the previous user of the facility uses the facility, the waiting time until the native language is announced can be shortened. Thereby, the convenience of the equipment can be improved.

In addition, by changing the order of the voice guidance to the newest order selected in the past voice guidance, the waiting time until the native language is announced can be further shortened.

Aspects of the present invention are not limited to the individual embodiments described above, but include various modifications that can be conceived by those skilled in the art, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-described contents. That is, various additions, changes, and partial deletions are possible without departing from the conceptual idea and spirit of the present invention derived from the content defined in the claims and equivalents thereof.

It is also possible to combine or replace part of the configurations described in the embodiments, including the modifications described above. Furthermore, it is also possible to apply only a part of the configuration described in the embodiment including the modified example described above. These cases have specific configurations derived from their respective configurations in addition to those specified herein.

1 multilingual voice guidance device, 2 storage unit, 3 determination unit, 4 voice guidance unit

Claims (3)

a storage unit that stores a language selected as a language used for voice guidance in using the facility;
a voice guidance unit that provides the voice guidance using a plurality of languages;
changing the order of the plurality of languages so that the selected language stored in the storage unit among the plurality of languages is used first to provide the voice guidance, and the voice guidance unit uses the changed order. an order changing unit for causing the voice guidance to be performed;
A multilingual voice guidance device with The order changing unit changes the order of the plurality of languages to the newest language selected for the voice guidance in the past.
The multilingual voice guidance device according to claim 1. a step of storing in a storage unit the language selected as the language used for voice guidance in using the facility;
providing said voice guidance using a plurality of languages;
changing the order of the plurality of languages so that the selected language stored in the storage unit among the plurality of languages is used first to provide the voice guidance;
a step of providing the voice guidance in the changed order;
Multilingual voice guidance method including.

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