JPS60502174A - A device that generates an audible sound in response to voice. - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] Field of device technology that generates audible sound in response to voice This invention relates to a device for locating misplaced or lost items, and in particular to a device for locating misplaced or lost items. Auditory response by detecting sound sequences within a range of frequencies, time intervals, and amplitude levels The invention relates to an electronic voice detection and indication circuit that generates.

Forward technique Everyone has experienced accidentally misplacing their keys, glasses, wallet, etc. It is to be. I found the key that I was sure I had until a while ago. It's common for everyone to feel frustrated when they can't get their clothes right.

Rummaging through desks, dressers, chests of drawers, wallets, etc. to find items that have been left behind Often, a lot of time is wasted. Items such as glasses and keys are very often misplaced, causing inconvenience and frustration to the person. It causes shimin. For those who have experienced something like this more than once, there is a high ( It is highly desirable to have the aid of reliable and practical equipment without It is.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,101,873 to Anderson et al. Devices have been suggested to locate lost items, allowing them to hound commonly forgotten items. A receiver is disclosed. The user uses the transmitter to to locate misplaced items. The receiver detects the code signal and produces an audible output upon detection of the correct code sequence. Country Similarly, International Application No. PCT/GB 81/0023 is a short lane signal transmitter or “searcher” and receiver or “locator” Discloses a two-device system consisting of: Signal transmission between two units is Either ultrasonic waves or electromagnetic waves may be used.

There are difficulties in using a two-device system (transmitter and receiver), and The transmitter must be commercially available, which is the best They must first be sought out or called out. If the transmitter If we can't find it, we can't do anything. 2 device system is 1 device They tend to be more expensive than vice systems.

Further, it relates to radio receivers of the type described in the above-mentioned U.S. patents and PCT applications. There are many related issues. These receivers require complex filters, R, F, and Requires a mixer, mixer and tuning network. these parts Many of them cannot be integrated (like tuning coils). So it's cheap Integration of components into easily assembled units is not possible. This is this It makes the system so expensive that the average consumer can't afford it.

This invention can be easily formed on microchips, reducing costs through mass production. A single module that reduces noise, improves reliability, and eliminates noise associated with transmit-receive systems. The electronic unit overcomes the above-mentioned drawbacks. More details below As explained, the present invention provides a single Consists of a self-contained unit. This invention responds to human-generated sounds. For example, you can find your lost keys by simply clapping your hands.

Summary of the invention According to one aspect of the invention, the above and other objects are achieved as follows. Ru. That is, the device can be attached to common items such as keys or glasses. A small, battery-powered electronic unit and an audible signal from the ordinary item being searched. and means responsive to the plurality of audio signals generated.

The above means includes a transducer responsive to the audio signal to generate the first signal. the first signal and the first signal each exceed a predetermined threshold level; signal processing means and a signal processing means connected to the transducer means for providing a signal pulse; and a plurality of binary pulses within a predetermined first time period. and a detection means connected to the signal processing means for the purpose.

The detection means is arranged a predetermined second time apart with respect to the output signal to be formed. Means requiring two consecutive binary pulses may further be included.

an output means connected to the detection means and the transducer means receives an output signal; and is arranged to generate a second signal during a third period of time. This second signal is preferably generated intermittently during a predetermined third time period. Tran The sound diffuser means also generates an audible signal in response to the second signal, the latter being a predetermined signal. has an established frequency.

In another configuration of the present invention, it is preferable that there are four audio signals; Further, it is preferable that the audio signal is human clapping. Binary pulse duration The period is approximately equal to the period in which the first signal exceeds the threshold level, and the Preferably, the duuser is responsive to that of an audio signal within a predetermined frequency range. .

In another important configuration of the invention, the detection means furthermore detect two consecutive pulses. are too close to each other, i.e. within the fifth predetermined time period. and inhibits provision of the first signal to the signal processing means during a fourth predetermined time period. Contains disabling means.

The detection means also detects a predetermined amount of physical movement of the unit, and in doing so detects a movement signal. Preferably, it includes means for providing. supplying the first signal to the signal processing means; Prohibits giving.

The disabling means is configured to generate a motion signal within a fifth predetermined period of time after one of the binary pulses. When a signal occurs, it becomes operational.

In this way, the invention allows frequencies, amplitudes, and intervals that fall within a predetermined range to Search for the unit by manually generating an audio signal (e.g. clap) with the The present invention provides an electronic unit that enables search. Correct audio signal sequence Upon detection of , the unit switches from its "listening" mode to an audible mode, An audible signal is generated for a predetermined period of time to allow determination of the position of the unit. Become.

By attaching the unit to items that may be commonly left behind, The user can discover this item without the need for a second unit such as a transmission device. Can be done. Thanks to its small size, very low power consumption, coupled with low manufacturing costs , items that can be commonly misplaced economically have their own unit. be able to.

Brief description of the drawing FIG. 1 is a detailed block diagram of an embodiment of the circuit of the present invention; 2 is a circuit diagram of the amplifier 120 shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3A is a circuit diagram of the amplifier 120 shown in FIG. Graph showing the output of the amplifier 120 for one example of a handclap, where the axis shows time. In Figure 3B, the vertical axis shows the amplitude and the horizontal axis shows the time for an example of clapping. A graph showing the output of the cut trigger 138, 6 Figure 3C shows the envelope for an example of clapping, with the vertical axis showing amplitude and the horizontal axis showing time. a graph of the output of the rope shaping circuit 142; FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of an embodiment of the envelope shaping circuit 142, In Figure 5A, the vertical axis shows the timing state, and the horizontal axis shows the time, such as four clapping hands. a graph for a given time showing the sequence of correct sounds occurring in In Figure 5B, the vertical axis shows the timing status and the horizontal axis shows the time of four clap cycles. A graph showing the range of time required between correct successions, FIG. 6 is a plan view of one embodiment of the impact switch 250, and FIG. 7 is a plan view of an embodiment of the impact switch 250. Schematic diagram of the configuration of other embodiments and FIG. 8 is a partially cutaway side view of switch 265.

Detailed description of the invention ■、-General motion work In a broader sense, this invention allows users to locate misplaced items. It can be said that it is an electronic item search unit, and this unit is used to search for items by the user. frequency, amplitude within a preselected or predetermined range This produces a sequence of nine interval sounds.

Once the correct audio sequence is detected, the unit will tell the owner of the item its location. The cut will switch to audible mode.　'---゛What is the unit according to this invention? It can also be attached to other items. Examples are many: keys, glasses, bill clips. , credit card holder, address book, passport, itinerary notebook, etc. this Since the invented unit is extremely small, it can be attached to items that are commonly misplaced. The position of t is determined by the user to determine the correct audio sequence. This can be recognized by making a sound (for example, clapping hands).

The electronic unit of this invention is always in operation (as detailed below) (except when harm is detected).

Continuous operation is possible due to the very low power consumption of the unit in its rest state. It has become a Noh performance. By operating continuously, the unit always produces the correct sound. Voice sequences can be detected. When the correct audio sequence is detected, this The invention's unit switches to an audible mode that emits an audible sound and allows location detection. becomes. This extremely low power consumption is due to 0MO8 technology, mechatronic design and and because of the method of circuit operation of this invention. Power consumption in hibernation mode is an example For example, it is 8 to 20 microamps and can last for 6 to 9 months using a small button battery. Continuous operation is possible.

It is clear that intermittent operation further saves power consumption.

The correct audio sequence to drive the unit is determined by the user (mostly or Selected for easy firing (without training) and prevents false triggers In order to do this, the sounds are selected because they are sufficiently different from the sounds commonly encountered in the surrounding environment. Uni The cut is a sequence of two or more sounds generated by the user. Detect and operate effectively. In the preferred embodiment, four such voices Is required. These sounds are transmitted at frequencies within a preselected frequency spectrum. The interval that requires the component and is within the minimum and maximum predetermined time intervals and the preselected requires an amplitude exceeding the specified level. In order to properly drive the unit of this invention, The preferred and correct audio sequence is four sequential handclaps (or (whistling or other loud sounds), which are repeated for one second and of medium volume. It has a range of amplitudes. Hereinafter, for convenience, this invention will be referred to as "Four Claps". Although described as being driven, it is clear that other suitable noises may be used. That's it.

The purpose is to monitor ambient sound or place the unit in listening mode, allowing the user to It will only switch to audible mode when it detects the correct audio sequence. be. Upon detection of this correct audio sequence, the unit will detect the user's location. Generates an audible tone that can be confirmed.

Since the correct audio sequence is generated by the user's clapping of hands, the M2 device (e.g. transmission equipment) is not required to locate the misplaced item.

When a second device (transmission device or tone generator) is required, this second device The probability of misplacing the device is the same as the probability of misplacing the item with the device attached. This would greatly reduce the usefulness of the positioning device. Ru.

In operation in listening mode, the input/output transducer of the present invention , output in response to some received audio that falls within the frequency response of the transducer. Generate a signal. This output signal is amplified and its amplitude is compared with a Schmitt trigger. and is shaped by an envelope shaping circuit. Binary pulse accepted The audio is within the transducer's predetermined frequency spectrum and at a predetermined amplitude level. When the signal exceeds Bell, it is given by this envelope shaping circuit. Enbe The rope shaping circuit uses adjacent high outputs from the Schmitt trigger (which performs amplitude comparisons). When the force has an interval less than a given amount in time, a single binary pulse form a space.

The binary pulse given by the envelope shaping circuit operates as follows Supplied to logic circuits. The first binary pulse has a first predetermined period of time. Start and four binary pulses drive the unit to switch to its audible mode. must occur in order to Also continuous binary to generate drive A second predetermined time period begins that determines the minimum interval between pulses. This second predetermined The time period prevents voices that are too closely spaced to drive the unit. . Upon detecting the correct sequence of clap (e.g. 4 times), the 1] chic circuit switch to audible mode. In audible mode, the unit will a third predetermined location that allows you to confirm the location of the misplaced item; This produces a sequence of continuous tones or intermittent tones for a period of time.

Ambient sounds and noises not generated by the user can extend battery life. consideration must be given to increasing the

Amplification with an amplifier and amplitude comparison with a Schmitt trigger are Because the operating point swings due to the "sound" sound, the performance is much higher than in the rest mode. consume energy. In this way, the minimum predetermined interval (hereinafter referred to as the fifth predetermined time interval) If binary pulses with a spacing below the It turns itself off and becomes undriven for a "fourth" predetermined time interval. This non-driver dynamic state is when the unit is placed in an environment where such "incorrect" audio is present. The battery life will be greatly extended since it will not be in Sning mode.

The unit that becomes this invention also has the ability to detect binary pulses by the physical movement of the unit. Even when it is detected later, it is not driven for the fifth predetermined time period. Feel the physical movement The transducer's ability to detect sound as if it were detected by the transducer (which is sensitive to this motion) excessive physical vibration or disturbance of the unit that produces a signal that appears to be Prevents power loss from rain.

The unit can thus be carried, for example in the user's pocket, Never enter an inappropriate drive state by walking or running.

Correct operation of the unit is ensured by the use of visual indicators (such as LEDs). The user will be informed. For example, a visual display means can be used to identify the preceding binary pulse and the appropriate It can be turned off by detecting each binary pulse at a certain interval.

This allows you to learn the time intervals of clap needed to drive the unit. Ru. In other words, the user can produce the occurrence of audible tones (with a visual display in sequence). By turning the means off you will learn the correct spacing. This visual display The instrument also allows the user to adjust the amplitude level of the handclaps detectable by the unit. It is also used for learning. Also, if the unit is in listening mode (the battery is not dead) The user can determine whether the device is working or not. The switch is Preferably, a visual indicator is provided so that it can be operated; For normal operation, a large amount of battery power is consumed, so please do not leave it in a non-driving state. It will be destroyed.

■1 Circuit configuration and operation In particular, in FIG. 1, a block diagram of one embodiment according to the present invention is shown. Most of the components are fabricated on rC microchips using 0MO8 technology. Ru. Transducer 100 supplies a signal to line 102 according to the audio received. do. Further, transducer 100 is responsive to the received Gp signal on line 102. Generates an audible sound at a predetermined frequency.

Thus, the transducer 100 has both listening (acceptance) and audible (transmission) It operates in two modes. The preferred form of transducer 100 is a piezoelectric It is a lectric sensor. Such piezoelectric sensors are When the impedance is very high, it represents pure capacitance. Or a movable frame A field transducer can also be used.

When a piezoelectric sensor is used as transducer 1oo , the receiver not only supplies a signal to line 102 depending on the input audio, but also Since the router response is non-linear, it also acts as a filter (this is true for all other filter or block all frequency components and Choose a piezoelectric sensor that outputs wavenumber components. enable. The conformal frequency response spectrum ranges from 1000 to 2500. Ruth. This filtering response detects the “correct” audio sequence. This demonstrates the ability of the unit of this invention to produce

Line 102 is connected to an electronic switch-104.

The switching state of electronic switch 104 is controlled by control line 10G-. controlled by control signals. When there is no control signal on line 106, the control switch 104 passes the signal on line 11)2 to line 108. Conversely, if the control signal When present on line 106, the output of output buffer 110 is , is supplied to transducer 100 via switch 104 and line 102. Ru. In this audible mode, the output signal provided by the output buffer 110 The signal causes the transducer 100 to output an audible tone to the user's unit. Enabling exploration. In the audible mode, the output signal on line 112 is It should be noted that line 108 is not provided by line 104. . Transducer 100 is a very sensitive device. For example, let it fall It emits high energy and generates voltage spikes. Does not destroy other parts of the circuit Therefore, the transducer 100 includes diodes (not shown) connected in opposite directions to each other. ) and the unit is operating in either listening or audible mode. It suppresses the wrinkles and breakage when the hair is on. This may also cause electrostatic damage to other parts of the circuit. It also prevents damage.

Line 108 is connected to an AND gate (if present) 114 or is connected to amplifier 120 (when AND gate 114 is not present) via line 118. ). The inverting input or AND gate 114 is connected to the non-drive line 11 6. Normally, the signal on line 116 is low and the signal on line 116 is low. AND gate to supply the signal on line 108 as its output (line 118). -1-114 is activated. Physical movement is detected by the sister described below. from the input of amplifier 120 to transducer 10 when in a noisy environment. The AND gate 114 insulates the output of 0.

Amplifier 120 receives a signal ( 6 to 10 millivolts> and feed the amplified signal to line 132. Ru. A preferred form of amplifier 120 is an operational amplifier shown in FIG. amplifier 1 The 20 operates in DC mode as a voltage follower and has a fixed gain increase in AC mode. Works as a width gauge.

For DC mode, a voltage divider consisting of resistor 128 and resistor 130 connects the non-inverting input A resistor 124 in series with the transducer 100 is connected to the It is connected between the non-inverting input and the inverting input of the width converter 121. Transducer 10 When 0 is a piezoelectric sensor, it is fully capacitive and Shows infinite impedance. A feedback resistor 122 connects the output and the inverting input. connected between. A bias resistor 126 is connected to the power supply (Fig. (not shown). This voltage follower configuration is based on the offset voltage of the IC chip and the open circuit. It makes DC operation nearly independent of process variations such as loop gain. If corrected If not, this process variation will result in low level inputs between 6 and 10 millivolts. This is very important as it will be large enough to mask out the force signal. be. In other words, the signal provided by the preferred inducer 100 is can vary from chip to chip so that the signal change formed by the It is to have a hibernation state.

In AC mode, the fixed gain is R1 according to the following formula: However, R1 is the impedance of the feedback resistor 122, and R2 and 4 are the resistors. The impedance and Zp of resistor 124 are the impedance to transducer 100. It is a pedance.

A voltage divider circuit provides a steady state output voltage at a fixed percentage (e.g. 20%) of the supplied power. Set the pressure. A typical example of a fixed gain is approximately 250. Therefore, for example , 6 millipol 1 to (beak-beak) input signal is 1.5 volts from amplifier 120. produces an output signal of

Returning to FIG. 1, the output of amplifier 120 is provided to the non-inverting input of AND gate 134. and its inverting input is connected to line 116. As stated below, AND gate 134 has the same function as AND gate 114, and the unit is in a noisy environment or when physical movement is detected. Isolate the output of the transformer 100 from the rest of the circuit. In other words, this deactivates the circuit. This non-driving state is determined by AND gate 114 or This can be done either by AND gate 134. In the end, AND gate 1 14, the unit operates in a noisy environment or physical motion is detected and the Amplifier 1 produced when the output of the transducer 100 is supplied to the amplifier 120 This is preferred because the 20 operating point swing is eliminated. AND gate 134 output is provided by line 136 to the input of Schmitt trigger 138. Shumi Trigger 138 is activated when the input signal on line 136 exceeds a predetermined level. and outputs a high level (for example, 3 volts) output signal. Figure 3A is an operational amplifier 120 output and - times of handclaps are converted into audio by the transducer 100. of the signal provided by transducer 100 when picked up by The amplified form is shown. Hand clapping produces a series of sound pulses, which are It should be noted that it consists of very short bursts of energy.

FIG. 3B shows the output from Schmitt trigger 138, which represents the input audio pulse. “high” for each input audio pulse that exceeds a predetermined amplitude level. produces a pulse. Since the clapping audio weakens over time, the last two in Figure 3A Alternatively, the three audio pulses may have insufficient amplitude to drive the Schmitt trigger 138. That's enough.

Envelope shaping circuit 142 connects Schmitt trigger 138 via line 140. connected to the output of FIG. 4 shows that capacitor 144 is connected to is further grounded and also connected to the power supply from resistor 146 via line 141. A typical example of a connected envelope shaping circuit 142 is shown. Diode 148 is , line 140 to line 141 and a negative signal from Schmitt trigger 138. Only the numbers are allowed to pass. Buffer amplifier 150 reads the output from line 141. It is insulated from the pin 152.

Envelope shaping circuit 142 acts as an integrator. Resistor 146 and capacitor 1 A value of 44 simulates a time interval below a predetermined amount (e.g., 0.125 seconds). Two or more pulses (second pulse) provided at the output of cut trigger 138 3B) into one binary pulse (Fig. 3C). . A single binary pulse formed as shown in Figure 3C thus produces a single clap. show. The values of the resistor 146 and capacitor 144 are such that the time constant of the shaping circuit 142 is The culm length that combines successive sound pulses, which are in fact separate and distinct sounds. It is selected so that it does not occur. In other words, exceeds the predetermined value (0,125 seconds) The high level signal from the Schmitt trigger 135 separated by the amount resulting in separated binary pulses provided by a pulse shaping circuit 142. This way The envelope shaping circuit 142 thus separates the individual audio pulses from the handclaps. form a single binary pulse, but shifted in time by an amount greater than a predetermined value. It also forms continuous binary pulses of various sounds.

The logic circuit below, operating in binary mode, is not in the "correct" time range. Detects the “correct” sequence of speech independently of the sequence of speech, and eliminates noisy surroundings. The circuit is disabled for a predetermined period of time upon detection of a boundary or physical motion.

Returning again to FIG. 1, the output of envelope shaping circuit 142 is connected via line 152. Then, the set input of the main latch 154, the set input of the second latch 156, OR fed to one of the inputs of gate 158 and one of the inputs of OR gate 160 . With respect to main latch 154, the binary pulse on line 152 the main to provide an enable signal on line 160 that is applied to the input of terminal 162. Operate latch 154. Upon receiving the enable signal on line 160, the oscillator 162 provides an output pulse train of a predetermined frequency on line 164. square wave data Preferably, a timing pulse is present. Representative frequency of oscillator 162 A typical example is 8 cycles per second. Casting used for manufacturing the unit of this invention more depending on the number of gates available for Tam IC or customized IC. Higher or lower pulse frequencies can be used. Oscillator 162 defines a time frame reference for the operation of the logic portion of the circuit. O The silator 162 is an RCA application node used here as a foregoing example. Preferably, it is an astable multivibrator designed in ICAN6267. Delicious. This circuit requires two resistors and one capacitor on the outside of the chip. Ru. This approach is based on the transfer voltage, supply voltage and The operating frequency of the oscillator 162 is created almost independently of temperature changes. these It is important that changes be as small as possible.

As mentioned above, power consumption is an important factor. Oscillator 162 In the preferred approach with a stable multivibrator, power consumption is This is the relationship between capacitor charging current and output frequency. The higher the frequency, the less capacitance is required. The value of the capacitor becomes smaller, which means a concomitant reduction in the size and cost of this capacitor. cause a small amount. Decreasing the value of the capacitor reduces the required charging current. circuit manufacturing When a gate array is used, for example, the operating frequency of the oscillator 162 is increase to 16.32.64 or 128 pulses per second and then increase this higher frequency It is better to bring the number down to 8 pulses per second for the logic part to operate. These additions additional gates can be used and the size of the gate array chip can be clearly increased. This slightly reduces the size of the external capacitor required when Therefore, it is better to increase the frequency.

The output of the oscillator 162 is connected to the changeover counter via line 164. 166 and one of the inputs of AND gate 168. counter 166 has two functions.

That is, all of the binary pulses corresponding to handclaps are correct in the detected audio. Define the "first" predetermined time interval that must occur according to the sequence, and After a new sequence is detected, a "third" predetermined time interval of the audible mode is established.

For example, when oscillator 162 generates 8 pulses per second, counter 16 6 is set to count 64 changeovers. Is this correct For the generation of 4 binary pulses consisting of a continuous sound (e.g. 4 hand claps) This means that 4 seconds is the "first" predetermined time.

This is illustrated by the trace in Figure 5Δ.

Counter 166t may also take any other suitable form. One aperture not shown The approach is the use of a cascade of a set of flip-flops. Do it like this Therefore, counter 166 is used to determine when a predetermined number of changeovers have occurred. It can be used not only as a timing pulse source for other parts of the logic circuit, but also as a timing pulse source for other parts of the logic circuit. Ru.

When the counter 166 detects a predetermined number of changeovers, the counter The input of AND gate 172 is outputted to the input of AND gate 174 via pin 170. Supply pulses as force.

Line 176 connects the inverting input of AND gate 174 and the non-inverting input of AND gate 172. Connected to transfer input. The signal on line 176 indicates that the "correct" sequence of audio has been detected. This audio sequence is at a low level except when it is emitted. There are four voices in , and the voices are spaced correctly in time.

Within the time interval determined by the oscillator 162 and the counter 166 As shown in the figure, in other words, when line 176 is at a low level, four When no pulse is detected, the AND gate 174 selects whether the counter 166 provides an output pulse to the input of an OR gate 180 via line 178. child This initiates reset mode, in which case the logic portion of the unit is reset. other correct sequences of speech can be detected. In particular, the OR gate 180 The pulse from the AND gate is counted as a set pulse via line 182. to the reset input of main latch 154 via line 184. to the reset input of the fourth latch 186 via line 188 to the reset input of the fourth latch 186. 4 pulses via line 196 to the input of OR gate 190 via line 192 to the reset input of counter 194 and via line 200 to third latch 1 98 reset inputs, respectively. Each of the reset pulses is associated with this Reset the circuit.

In operation, the signal on reset line 178 indicates that (1) counter 166 is Detects 32 pulses from oscillator 162 and determines by these 32 pulses When four binary pulses are not properly detected within a whole first predetermined time interval, (2) After changeover counter 204 changes state: This (described in more detail below) after a delay of a third predetermined time interval determined during the period of the Depending on the difference, the level will be high.

The second latch 156 is part of the logic circuit section and includes: (1) correct sequence of audio; (2) consecutive binary pulses to detect the occurrence of four binary pulses consisting of (3) to set a “second” predetermined minimum time between pulses; Used to provide a visual output to the user as to what to drive properly .

Upon receiving a binary pulse on line 152, second latch 156 changes state. and sends a high level signal to its output.

This high level signal is passed through line 206 to the input of AND gate 208, AN Provided to the input of D-gate 168 and the input of inverting buffer 2100. latch The output of 156 remains high until latch 156 is reset. should be taken into consideration. A high signal at the first input of AND gate 168 Oscillator via 212 Changeover counter of pulse train from 162 214. The counter 214 is a predetermined number of checks. count overs. When the predetermined number described above is reached, the counter 214 N218. All that outputs signals to 220 and 222 is a typical change This is the number of consecutive binary pulses that cause the unit to drive. Set the minimum time interval between

In FIG. 5B, the number 11 for changeover counter 214 is 1 of 4. 1 times the timing period, or 44. 64 is detected by the counter 166 is the number of changeovers to be performed. The ratio of 44 to 64 is the correct 4 parts. The minimum time during which the ruses occur means 68.7% of the total time of 4 seconds.

In other words, this accounts for 31.3% error in the timing of four consecutive voices. Allows the user to miss the child or miss about 1.25 seconds out of 4 seconds. It is. This timing error between consecutive voices is due to time intervals A, B and C. , where A + B + C < 1.25 seconds, A < O, B < O, C < It is O.

In one situation, 11 of the counters 214 have a tolerance error of 31.3%. The value is too high for correct discrimination against random noise pulses. Maybe. A value of 12 for the counter 214 is better in such a case. would be appropriate. A value of 12 results in only a 25% tolerance error. subordinate Therefore, it is possible to set a number other than 11 to the counter 214. should be recognized.

When counter 214 counts 11 changeovers, line 218 . Bipulses are output to 220 and 222. The bipulse of line 222 is , is supplied to the input of the OR gate 190 and resets the second latch 156 ( The second latch 156 receives an OR gate 180 with a reset pulse on line 192. (also reset when given). Furthermore, the bipulse on line 220 is Reset counter 214 via OR gate 160 and further via line 224. is applied to the SET input, which resets the counter 214. lastly, The bipulse on line 218 is generated by AND gate 226 (line 228 is low). ) and the input of the 4-pulse counter 194 via line 230. Power is supplied. Thus, in response to a binary pulse by second latch 156, 1 After counting the first changeover, counter 214 counts itself and the second changeover. Resetting latch 156 also causes a counter to indicate detection of a strong binary pulse. send a pulse to the printer 194.

This reset causes the second latch 156 to accept the next binary signal via line 152. As mentioned above, it is possible to count the number of correct speech sequences. It becomes possible to do so.

As mentioned above, the counter 214 is configured to count the time intervals that are less than the minimum 1 and 2 predetermined time intervals. It also has the ability to determine whether a binary pulse is received following a preceding binary pulse. have In particular, the binary pulse is detected by counter 214 When the changeover occurs at a shorter time interval than the changeover, the counter 214 reset line 152, OR gate 160 and reset line 224. , while the second latch 156 is not receiving the reset pulse on line 216. is not reset. This operation causes counter 214 to have 10 ticks before resetting. Even if the count of changeovers has finished, the counting will start again.

This results in an extension of the time interval counted by counter 214, causing the oscillator to correct audio sequence within a predetermined time determined by counter 162 and counter 166. prevent the connection from being detected. In this way, counter 214 according to the present invention It serves to determine the minimum time between consecutive sounds that result in the activation (voicing).

As mentioned above, counter 214 is configured to count a predetermined number of changeovers (one in the illustrated example). An output pulse is provided on line 218 every time a period of time equal to 1) is counted. child The output pulse of is provided to the non-inverting input of AND gate 226. Normal line 2 28 is at a low level (in a noisy environment or as described below) (except when physical movement is occurring). Ultimately, the pulse on line 218 is Supplied from AND gate 226 to 4-pulse counter 194 via line 230 be done.

Counter 194 is set to count a predetermined number of input pulses, and then generates an output pulse. The number counted by the counter 194 is Equal to the number of binary pulses consisting of a sequence of correct sounds to put into listening mode. illustrated In the example, this number is four. Four pulses are received on line 230. counter 194 then outputs a pulse on line 240, which is the third latch. 198.

A third latch 198 changes level in response to a pulse on line 240 and 06 and a high signal on line 176. These high level signals are It shows that it is being driven. In this audible mode, the unit It creates and emits an audible tone that allows the user to determine its location.

In particular, the audible tones emitted during the audible mode are generated as follows. La A high signal on input 176 sends an audio signal of a predetermined frequency to oscillator 242. to occur.

Any type of audio signal can be generated. audio The preferred signal is a series with very sharp rise and fall times. is a square wave.

This produces an intermittent, pulsed audible sound. At the rising edge of a sharp pulse The pause and fall times enhance the audible tone to the user.

The output pulse stream of oscillator 242 on line 244 is provided to output buffer 7110. be provided. The output buffer 110 is connected from the transducer 100 to the oscillator 2. Works to isolate 42.

The buffered pulse train is connected to line 112, switch 104 and line 102. to the transducer 100 by an output buffer 711o. vinegar Switch 104 provides a line 1120′) signal to transducer 100. When line 106 is high, line 102 is It acts to isolate it from the engine 108. As mentioned above, the third latch 198 176 to provide a high signal to cause the oscillator 242 to generate a pulse stream. When the signal is output, the line 106 becomes high level.

The duration of the audible mode is predetermined and controlled as follows. Line 176 is When the level is reached, the AND gate 174 turns off and the counter 176 while supplying reset signals to various reset lines connected to OR gate 180. Can not. Instead, an AND gate 172 is enabled.

When counter 166 provides the next output pulse, the unit will detect the correct audio does not return to a state in which it is possible to detect a sequence of pulse is detected and the pulse from counter 166 to line 170 is 128 to changeover counter 204 via route 172 and line 202. Supplied. The preferred form of the 128 change over counter 204 is a binary It is a flip-flop. The pulse received on line 202 is the changeover Change the state of the counter 204. This resets the changeover counter 204. set, which indicates that the line 246 connected to its output is at a low level. It means. As a result, depending on the OR stage 180, the reset signal may This means that it was not supplied to each stage.

Changeover counter 204 indicates that counter 166 will pulse again on line 170. It will remain in this reset state until power is supplied. Counter 166 is an oscillator Count the other 64 changeovers of the pulse train given by 162 Do not apply the above pulses until the end. Oscillator 162 emits 8 pulses per second. This corresponds to a time of 4 seconds. When this 4 second count ends, the Counter 166 again provides another pulse on line 110, which is an AND gate. 172 and line 202 to the changeover counter 204. It will be done. This pulse provides a changeover counter 204, which is a reset pulse. line 182 . by OR gate 180 as a signal. 184. 188 and 192 to the various stages of the circuit. As mentioned above, this reset pulse If the device detects the first clap of the correct audio sequence, it activates the unit. Works to return to working condition.

In conjunction with counter 166 and oscillator 162, a changeover counter Counter 204 varies the duration of the audible mode. Appropriate predetermined times in audible mode Although the time period is 4 seconds, the invention can use any necessary predetermined time period. You should understand that it is possible. Battery consumption is a continuous audible tone This reduction in predetermined time saves money as well as using an audible pulse for Needless to say, it is possible.

Two conditions are detected to ensure proper operation of the unit and extend battery life. must be done. The first state is a sound whose interval is narrower than the "fifth" predetermined time interval. This is voice detection. This usually occurs when the unit is placed in a noisy environment. Or it may occur when periodic sounds are being generated. An example of such an environment and They have a machine shop and production plant.

The second condition occurs when the unit is physically in motion, and this motion output signal to the sensor diffuser 100 (which is very sensitive). unit will detect this movement as if the clap were present. This preference The "unusual r*trash" condition can occur under many circumstances.

For example, the unit can be carried in the user's pocket so that it can be carried while walking. Rows or running will generate a false tricker signal. Similarly, it produces periodic motion. The placement of the unit on the same machine (the motor is on the dash board of the vehicle) is as follows: Generate a false trigger signal.

Both of these states occur within the 51st predetermined time interval following the binary pulse. is detected by the unit. Detection of either state is done in the "fourth" part. Deactivates the unit for a fixed period of time. Either state is at this "fifth" predetermined time However, when this condition occurs for a longer time than This is because it is no different from inappropriate audio having an interval beyond the “second” time from the original audio. I'm going to ignore this. What is important to understand is that any of these conditions By deactivating the unit of this invention when detecting This means that it is very elongated.

This means that the signal from the transducer 100 is connected to the Schmitt trigger 138 (AN (when D gate 134 is used) or Schmitt trigger 138 and the operating point of amplifier 120 (when AND gate 114 is used). This is achieved by preventing changes in the These unwanted sounds or physical movement can be detected using the AND gate 134 or the AND gate 114. The signal on line 108 (whichever is used) is supplied from the rest of the circuit. block the issue. Generated by AND gate 134 or AND gate 114 The undriven state is the amplifier 120 and the Schmitt trigger 138 (AND gate 11 4 is used) or Schmitt trigger 138 (AN When the D-gate 134 is used), the operating point of the D-gate 134 is prevented from changing. this Preventing this operating point movement in one or two of the stages The battery consumes most of the power needed to operate the unit. This will significantly reduce wear and tear. The use of AND gate 114 prevent undesired changes in the operating point of the

In a first state of closely spaced audio, this audio is provided on line 152. Generates a binary pulse. These binary pulses are processed by AND gate 20 8 via OR gate 158 and line 24G. be done. The other two non-inverting inputs of AND gate 208 are connected to line 206 (second line output of main latch 156) and line 160 (output of main latch 154). . AND gate 208 connects the output of main latch 154 and the output of second latch 156. is high and OR gate 158 provides a binary pulse on line 246. When doing so, a pulse is provided to the input of the fourth launch 186 via line 248.

This condition indicates that the binary pulse is preceded by an amount less than the minimum predetermined fifth time. This occurs when binary pulses are generated at intervals of . This is the minimum given Occurs only when sub-time audio is detected.

This does not only occur in noisy environments, but also if the user is too short. It also occurs when clapping at long intervals.

The unit may also experience physical movement above a predetermined amount, referred to as a "collision" condition. Can be detected. The collision switch, designated by the number 250, is used when the unit exceeds a predetermined amount. Gives a signal when moving. This switch can take various forms.

Representative examples are shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

In FIG. 6, a ball bearing 252 is positioned within a race 254, which between the first position of the end of race 254 and the outer surface of transducer 100. and a second position in physical contact. unit is physically moved of the ball bearing 252 against the transducer 100 that occurs when Knocking is the same as if the sound was received (output to the transducer 100). generate a signal.

The binary pulse produced by this knocking is sent to the OR gate via line 152. is supplied to port 158.

Alternatively, an elongated, electrically conductive member 256 can be connected to a metal contact, as shown in FIG. It is also possible to arrange it so that it is surrounded by 258. One end of the conductive member 256 is The other end passes through an aperture in the metal contact 258 . This aperture is conductive It has a minimum diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the free end of the member. The physical movement of the unit is , vibrates the conductive member 256. If this motion occurs in a given direction, When it is larger than the amount (determined by the position of the I-strike switch 250), the conductivity Member 256 makes simple electrical contact with a portion of the inner surface of the aperture of contact 258. . Conductive member 256 and contact 258 are connected in series with the power source, so that this instantaneous A positive contact emits a pulse that is applied from line 260 to the input of OR gate 158. bring to life This pulse looks the same as if it were a binary pulse. is supplied via line 246 to AND gate 208 by OR gate 158. be done.

In this way, the detection of a physical movement larger than a predetermined amount is determined by the detection of a physical movement that is preceded by this movement. The fourth launch 186 if it occurs within the fifth predetermined time after the binary pulse. disable the unit.

As mentioned above, the fourth latch 186 serves to deactivate the unit and Therefore, the operating point of the Schmitt trigger 138 and, if possible, the operating point of the amplifier 120 are To avoid undesirable changes in power consumption. non-driving time is the fourth predetermined time. One approach to fixing the period of non-drive connects the reset input of the fourth latch 186 to one of the outputs of the OR gate 180. It is to continue. In this approach, the non-driving period is determined by the counter 166 determined by. This non-drive is 64 minus the number of changeovers. This changeover causes unwanted audio to be heard for a time equal to or when physical movement is detected. Thus, e.g. undesirable When sound or physical motion occurs after the detection of the first binary pulse, it is considered non-driven. The dynamic state lasts for almost 4 seconds. Conversely, the undriven state is the third binary pulse. When a signal occurs after detection of a signal, counter 166 provides an output pulse on line 170. Since there were almost no changeovers before the changeover, time becomes very sensitive.

A visual display stage 270 also forms part of the invention. This is against It consists of a transfer buffer 210 and a visual display means 262. Visual display means 2.62 and Therefore, LED 264 is preferable. Inverting buffer 210 is connected via line 206 to and is connected to the output of the second latch 156. With this approach, the LED 264 is lit when the output of the second latch 156 is at a low level. mentioned above As shown, upon receiving a binary pulse on line 152, second launch 156 goes high until reset via input 216. Therefore, counter 2 During the time determined by 14, the LED, 264, is turned off. But long When second latch 156 is reset, line 206 illuminates LED 264. It becomes a low level. LE[) 264 indicates that the next binary pulse is the second It remains lit until received by latch 156.

The user can operate the unit of this invention by monitoring the status of the LED 264. Learn the appropriate intervals for clapping to trigger movements. In particular, the user may turn on the LED 264. Drive the visual display stage 270 to light up. Then, the user Clap your hands. This turns off LED 264. The LED will be 214). It remains off until the timer 214 counts. A predetermined time is determined by the counter 214. is counted, the second latch 156 is reset and the LED 264 is reset. and is lit. This lets the user know when to clap their hands next. . When the clap is loud enough, the vinyl supplied to line 152 Generates a repulse and sets latch 156. This causes LFD264 to It will be turned off. In this way, the user can perform the four necessary hand claps to enter the audible mode. This will allow you to know the interval between hits. In addition, the user can The required loudness level of handclaps to be detected as can be determined.

In this manner, the visual display stage 270 allows the user to determine the appropriate time to clap. Be able to determine spacing and minimum magnitude levels.

No matter what device is used to provide a visual display, the unit according to the invention may be Compared to the 8 to 20 microamps of electricity consumed by knitting, It is clear that 100% of power is consumed. Power through visual display stage 270 Users can now turn off this stage to minimize consumption. It is possible to One approach is to switch the switch 26 as shown in FIG. 5. In this case, a metal object such as a coin is a unit of the present invention. into a slot 266 around the periphery of the socket.

The coin contacts two metal contacts 268 and 270, causing the LFD 264 to flip over. Close the circuit connected to the fan 210. This connection means that the coin is in the slot 266. It will be maintained as long as it is properly placed. Thus, visual display stage 270 operates only when the user wants it to operate. The switch 265 has various things are used. The way coin slots work is that the units work (and the coins are slotted). The user must remember to turn off the visual display means 270 as the It has the special advantage of being easy to use. Regular switch instead of coin slot switch switch, the user may inadvertently leave the visual display on. Sometimes. This results in a significant shortening of battery life. visual display hand The battery has enough power left to operate the unit and the unit is turned on. Instructs the user that it is in the active state.

In short, the unit of this invention is always on.

Upon detecting the correct sequence of sounds, the unit will switch to audible mode and emit an audible tone. to enable confirmation of the user's location. the correct audio required to drive the unit. Continuity must occur within the first predetermined time set by counter 166. No. These voices are processed by the counter 214 (the set minimum second F! It must be set at 8°. The preceding bar The undesirable effects of the unit occurring less than a minimum fifth predetermined time after the initial pulse. the loud voice or physical movement deactivates the unit for a fourth predetermined period of time; Therefore, battery life is extended. Visual display stage shows correct operation of the unit Let the user decide. The 0M08 circuit powers the unit for 6 to 9 months on a button battery. It is used for continuous operation. The unit of this invention is very small and easy to use. The circuit used does not require the selection of specific elements that make up the process parameters. Therefore, it can be manufactured using automated technology. This invention is small, reliable and long operating. It is a significant improvement over the prior art due to lower time and manufacturing costs.

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Claims (1)

[Claims] 1. It is attached to items such as keys and glasses and responds to multiple human sounds. A small, battery-operated electronic unit containing means for producing an audible sound on the item to be searched. a transformer for generating a first signal in response to the sound; a transducer connected to the transducer, each of the first signals being connected to a predetermined transducer; Signal processing means and a signal processing means for providing a binary pulse when a threshold level is exceeded. and the signal processing means for transmitting a plurality of said binary pulses within a first predetermined time period. Apparatus consisting of detection means which, when received, produces an output signal. 2. said detection means further comprises at least a co-first detection means for said output signal to be provided; A plurality of said binary pulse sequences are spaced apart by two predetermined times. 2. A device as claimed in claim 1, including means for requiring that. 3. connected to the detection means and the transducer and receiving the output signal; Claims further comprising output means for generating the second signal for a third predetermined period of time. The device according to paragraph 1. 4. The output means intermittently generates the second signal for the third predetermined period of time. The device M according to claim 3, comprising means. 5. the transducer responsive to the second signal to generate the audible sound; The device according to claim 3 in response to the above. 6. The device according to claim 5, wherein the audible sound has a predetermined frequency. 7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the number of the plurality of sounds is four. 8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the sound consists of human clapping. 9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of sounds include human clapping. 10, the period of the binary pulse is such that the first signal is at the threshold level; 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time is approximately equal to the time required to cross the line. 11. The transducer is responsive to the audio within a predetermined frequency range. An apparatus according to claim 1. 12. The detection means further detects that two consecutive binary pulses are detected for a fifth predetermined time period. supplying the first signal to the signal processing means for a fourth predetermined time when the first signal occurs within 2. The device according to claim 1, further comprising disabling means for prohibiting the use of the device. 13. said detection means detecting at least two second predetermined times for supplying said output signal; and further comprising means for requesting said plurality of sequences of binary pulses spaced apart. An apparatus according to claim 12. 14. Claims in which the second predetermined time exceeds the fifth predetermined time Apparatus according to clause 13. 15. The detection means comprises means for detecting a predetermined amount of physical movement of the unit. An apparatus according to claim 1. 16, the detection means detects that the motion signal is detected after the occurrence of one of the binary pulses; 5, the signal processing of the first signal for a fourth predetermined time; The device according to claim 15, comprising disabling means for prohibiting supply to the means. . 17, said disabling means further comprising two consecutive binary pulses at said fifth location; when the first signal occurs within a predetermined time, the first signal is subjected to the signal processing for the fourth predetermined time. 17. The device according to claim 16, which prohibits feeding to means. 18. It is a small IT unit that can be attached to objects such as keys or glasses. Therefore, human sounds are required to generate an audible sound that allows WL recognition of the location of this item. In a device consisting of an electronic unit including means for responding to a plurality of voices (a) responsive to said audio to generate a first signal and to generate said audible sound; (b) a transducer responsive to a second signal; and (b) connected to the transducer. and when each of the first signals exceeds a predetermined threshold level, the binary (C) a plurality of signal processing means connected to the signal processing means; of said binary pulses are received within a first predetermined time and consecutive binary pulses are Provides an output signal when the repulses are few and occur at a second predetermined time interval. (1) connected to the detection means and the transducer; When the output signal is received, the second signal is intermittently generated for a third predetermined period of time. (e) output means for outputting said binary pulses within a fifth predetermined time period; supplying the first signal to the signal processing means for a fourth predetermined period of time when the first signal occurs; A device consisting of a battery saving means for prohibiting 19. The detection means further detects a predetermined amount of physical movement of the unit; 19. Apparatus according to claim 18, further comprising means for supplying a motion signal during. 20. The battery saving means further comprises: the motion signal being one of the binary pulses; occurs within the fifth predetermined time after the occurrence of the signal, the first signal is processed by the signal processor. 19. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the apparatus is configured to prohibit supplying the liquid to a processing means. 21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the audible sound has a predetermined frequency. 22. The device according to claim 18, wherein there are four voices. . 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the sound comprises human clapping. 24. The method according to claim 18, wherein the plurality of voices consist of human clapping. Device. 25, the period of the binary pulse is such that the first signal is at the threshold level; 19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the time is approximately equal to the time for crossing the 1. 26, a patent in which the transducer is responsive to the sound within a predetermined frequency range. An apparatus according to claim 18. 27. Claim No. 27, wherein the second predetermined time exceeds the fifth predetermined time. The device according to item 18. 28. Attached to an object such as a key or glasses, allowing the location of this object to be confirmed. a small device that includes means for responding to multiple sounds emitted by a human to produce an audible sound that said means comprising: (a) a battery-powered unit of the type for generating a first signal; a second signal responsive to the audio to generate the audible sound; (b) each of the first signals connected to the transducer; A signal that provides a binary pulse when each exceeds a predetermined threshold level. and (C) a plurality of binary pulses connected to the signal processing means. is received by said detection means within a first predetermined time period, an output signal A device consisting of a detection means that generates