JPWO2020095517A1 - Controls and programs - Google Patents

Abstract

The control device of the parametric speaker is provided with a means for acquiring the three-dimensional layout information regarding the three-dimensional layout of the space in which the parametric speaker is used, and should generate an audible sound formed by ultrasonic waves emitted from the parametric speaker. A means for acquiring simulation conditions including the first position information regarding the position of one region and the second position information regarding the position of the second region where the progress of ultrasonic waves should be prohibited is provided, and the three-dimensional layout information and the first position are provided. Based on the combination of information and the second position information, audible sound is generated in the first region and audible sound is generated in the second region from a plurality of paths between the parametric speaker and the subject. It is provided with means for selecting a non-selection route, and is provided with means for generating a control signal for controlling the path of ultrasonic waves emitted from the parametric speaker based on the selection result of the selection means.

Description

The present invention relates to control devices and programs.

The parametric speaker is configured to reproduce sound in the audible range by emitting an ultrasonic beam. Since the ultrasonic beam has high directivity, a sound source can be formed in a specific region.

For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-29096 discloses a technique for selectively listening to a specific target person by reflecting it with a structure.

However, in the technique of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-29096, when a person other than the target person (hereinafter referred to as "non-target person") exists on the ultrasonic path, the voice reaches the non-target person. Whether or not the audio reaches only the target person depends on the position of the non-target person.

That is, the conventional parametric speaker may not be able to meet the demand that only a specific target person can hear the sound.

An object of the present invention is to deliver audio only to a specific target person regardless of the position of the non-target person.

One aspect of the present invention is
It is a control device for parametric speakers.
A means for acquiring 3D layout information regarding the 3D layout of the space in which the parametric speaker is used is provided.
The first position information regarding the position of the first region where the audible sound formed by the ultrasonic waves emitted from the parametric speaker should be generated, and the second position information regarding the position of the second region where the progress of the ultrasonic waves should be prohibited. With means to obtain simulation conditions including
Based on the combination of the three-dimensional layout information, the first position information, and the second position information, the audible sound is generated in the first region from a plurality of paths between the parametric speaker and the target person. A means for selecting a route that is generated and does not generate the audible sound in the second region is provided.
A means for generating a control signal for controlling the path of ultrasonic waves radiated from the parametric speaker based on the selection result of the means for selection is provided.
It is a control device.

According to the present invention, the voice can be delivered only to a specific target person regardless of the position of the non-target person.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of an audio system. It is explanatory drawing of the outline of the direction change mechanism 36 of FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the outline of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the data structure of the spatial information data table of this embodiment. It is a sequence diagram of the control of the parametric speaker of this embodiment. It is a detailed flowchart of the space simulation of FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the screen displayed in the process of FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the selection of the route of FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the outline of the modification 1. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the outline of the modification 2. It is explanatory drawing of the outline of the modification 3. It is explanatory drawing of the outline of the modification 4. It is a figure which shows the data structure of an audio file. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the parametric speaker 30 of the modification 8. It is the schematic which shows the traveling direction of the ultrasonic wave radiated from the parametric speaker 30 of the modification 8. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the reflection member of the modification 9.

Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In addition, in the drawing for demonstrating the embodiment, the same components are in principle the same reference numerals, and the repeated description thereof will be omitted.

(1) Configuration of audio system The configuration of the audio system will be described. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an audio system.

As shown in FIG. 1, the audio system 1 includes a control device 10 and a parametric speaker 30.

The control device 10 is configured to control the parametric speaker 30.

The parametric speaker 30 is configured to emit an audible sound beam using ultrasonic waves under the control of the control device 10.

(1-1) Configuration of Control Device The configuration of the control device 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, the control device 10 includes a storage device 11, a processor 12, an input / output interface 13, and a communication interface 14.

The storage device 11 is configured to store programs and data. The storage device 11 is, for example, a combination of a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a storage (for example, a flash memory or a hard disk).

The program includes, for example, the following program.
-OS (Operating System) program-Application program that executes control processing of the parametric speaker 30

The data includes, for example, the following data.
-Database referenced in information processing-Data obtained by executing information processing (that is, the execution result of information processing)

The processor 12 is configured to realize the function of the control device 10 by activating the program stored in the storage device 11. The processor 12 is an example of a computer.
For example, the processor 12 generates a control signal for the parametric speaker 30 and outputs the control signal to the parametric speaker 30 via the communication interface 14.

The input / output interface 13 is configured to acquire a user's instruction from an input device connected to the control device 10 and output information to an output device connected to the control device 10.
The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, or a combination thereof.
The output device is, for example, a display.

The communication interface 14 is configured to control communication between the control device 10 and the parametric speaker 30.

(1-2) Configuration of Parametric Speaker The configuration of the parametric speaker 30 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 1, the parametric speaker 30 includes a drive unit 32, a communication interface 34, a plurality of ultrasonic transducers 35, and a direction changing mechanism 36.

The drive unit 32 is configured to generate an ultrasonic radiation signal for driving the ultrasonic transducer 35 and a drive signal for driving the direction changing mechanism 36 according to the control signal output from the control device 10. Will be done.

The communication interface 34 is configured to control communication between the parametric speaker 30 and the control device 10.

The plurality of ultrasonic transducers 35 are configured to emit an audible sound beam using ultrasonic waves by vibrating based on the ultrasonic radiation signal generated by the drive unit 32.

The direction changing mechanism 36 is configured to change the radiation direction of ultrasonic waves (for example, the direction of the radiation surface 35a) based on the drive signal generated by the drive unit 32. The direction changing mechanism 36 is, for example, an actuator.

(1-2-1) Outline of Direction Changing Mechanism An outline of the direction changing mechanism 36 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the direction changing mechanism 36 of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 35 are arranged, for example, on the radiation surface 35a defined by the XY plane. When the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 35 vibrate, ultrasonic waves are radiated in the normal direction (Z direction) of the XY plane.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the direction changing mechanism 36 pivotally supports the radial surface 35a at the support point 36a.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the radial surface 35a is configured to be fixed in the X direction and to change the directions in the Y and Z directions at the support point 36a. As a result, the radiation direction of the ultrasonic waves radiated from the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 35 is changed.

(2) Outline of the present embodiment The outline of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, the parametric speaker 30 is arranged at the position Ps (xs, ys, zs) of the used space SP, and the subject TL exists at the position Pt (xt, yt, zt).
There are a plurality of reflective members RM1 to RM4 in the used space SP. Of the plurality of reflective members RM1 to RM4, the reflective attribute of the reflective members RM1 to RM3 is specular reflection, and the reflective attribute of the reflective member RM4 is diffuse reflection. The ultrasonic reflectances rf1 to rf4 of the plurality of reflective members RM1 to RM4 are as follows, for example.
・ Rf1 = 40%
・ Rf2 = 50%
・ Rf3 = 30%
・ Rf4 = 20%

The control device 10 selects a path satisfying a predetermined selection condition from a plurality of paths PA1 to PA3 by executing a spatial simulation. Each path PA1 to PA3 includes the position Ps (xs, ys, zs) of the parametric speaker 30 and the position Pt (xt, yt, zt) of the subject TL, and at least between the positions Ps to Pt. The reflection in one reflection member RM1 to RM4 is included.

The audible sound beam emitted from the parametric speaker 30 travels along the path selected by the control device 10 and reaches the position Pt by being reflected by at least one of the plurality of reflecting members RM1 to RM4. .. As a result, the subject TL located at the position Pt (coordinates {xt, yt, zt}) can hear the audible sound emitted from the aerial sound source formed along the audible sound beam.
For example, when the control device 10 selects the path PA1, the subject TL can hear an audible sound that cannot be heard by the non-subject NT from the direction of the reflective member RM1. In this case, the subject TL can feel that the sound source exists at the reflection point of the reflection member RM1.

(3) Data structure of the spatial information data table The data structure of the spatial information data table of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a data structure of the spatial information data table of the present embodiment.

The spatial information data table of FIG. 4 is stored in, for example, the storage device 11.

Spatial information is stored in the spatial information data table. The spatial information is three-dimensional layout information relating to the three-dimensional layout of the used space SP.
The spatial information data table includes a "coordinate" field and a "reflection characteristic" field. Each field is associated with each other.

Coordinate information is stored in the "coordinates" field. The coordinate information represents, for example, three-dimensional coordinates that define a region (for example, a start point and an end point) of a reflective member existing in the used space SP. The coordinate information is represented by, for example, a used space coordinate system whose origin is an arbitrary position in the used space SP (for example, the point Po (0, 0, 0) in FIG. 3).

The “reflection characteristic” field stores reflection characteristic information regarding the reflection characteristic. The "Reflection Properties" field includes a plurality of subfields ("Reflection Attribute" field, "Reflectance" field, and "Reflection Angle" field).

The "reflection attribute" field stores reflection attribute information related to the reflection attribute.
The reflection attribute information indicates, for example, any of the following.
・ Specular reflection ・ Diffuse reflection

The reflectance rf of the ultrasonic wave is stored in the "reflectance" field. Equation 1 shows the relationship between the sound pressure V0 of the ultrasonic waves incident on the reflecting member, the sound pressure V1 of the ultrasonic waves reflected by the reflecting member, and the reflectance rf.
V0 = V1 * rf ... (Equation 1)

The reflection angle of the ultrasonic wave is stored in the "reflection angle" field. The reflection angle is determined according to the orientation of the reflecting member at the position indicated by each coordinate.

(4) Control of Parametric Speaker The control of the parametric speaker 30 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram of control of the parametric speaker of the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a detailed flowchart of the spatial simulation of FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed in the process of FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the route selection of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 5, the control device 10 executes the acquisition of spatial information (S110).
Specifically, the processor 12 acquires the spatial information given by the user of the control device 10 via the input / output interface 13.
The processor 12 updates the spatial information data table (FIG. 4) using the acquired spatial information.

After step S110, the control device 10 executes the acquisition of condition information (S111).
Specifically, the processor 12 displays the screen P10 (FIG. 7) on the display.

The screen P10 includes the operation object B100 and the field objects F100a to F100g.
The field objects F100a to F100g receive user instructions for designating simulation conditions.
The field object F100a is an object that receives a user instruction for designating the speaker position information (that is, the coordinates of the positions Ps) of the parametric speaker 30 in the used space SP.
The field object F100b is an object that receives a user instruction for designating the first position information of the target area (an example of the "first area") in which the target person TL exists in the used space SP.
The field object F100c is an object that receives a user instruction for designating the second position information (that is, the coordinates of the position Pn) of the prohibited area (an example of the "second area") that does not generate an audible sound in the used space SP. ..
The field object F100d is an object that receives a user instruction for designating a volume (an example of "sound pressure condition information").
The field object F100e is an object that receives a user instruction for designating the upper limit number of reflections.
The field object F100f is an object that receives a user instruction for designating a sound direction. The sound direction is the direction of the sound perceived by the subject TL (that is, the traveling direction of the sound with respect to the subject TL).
The field object F100g is an object that receives a user instruction for designating the reflection attribute.
The operation object B100 is an object that receives a user instruction for starting sound reproduction by the parametric speaker 30.

The user inputs the coordinates of the position Ps in the field object F100a, the coordinates of the position Pt in the field object F100b, the coordinates of the position Pn in the field object F100c, and specifies the desired volume in the field object F100d. When the operation object B100 is operated, the processor 12 stores the condition information (speaker position information, the first position information, the second position information, and the volume information regarding the volume) input to the field objects F100a to F100d. Remember in.

After step S111, the control device 10 executes the spatial simulation (S112) according to the flowchart of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6, the control device 10 executes a search for a route population (S1120).
Specifically, the processor 12 searches for a route population (hereinafter referred to as “path population”) with reference to the speaker position information, the first position information, and the spatial information data table (FIG. 4). do. The route population is a route connecting the position of the parametric speaker 30 indicated by the speaker position information and the target area indicated by the first position information.

After step S1120, the control device 10 executes the calculation of the sound pressure attenuation factor (S1121).
Specifically, the processor 12 has a reflection position (reflection member RM1 to 1) based on the three-dimensional coordinates of the reflection members RM1 to RM4 included in the spatial information acquired in step S110 for each path included in the path population. (Any of RM4) is specified.
The processor 12 determines the ratio of the sound pressure in the target region to the output sound pressure based on at least one of the reflectance and the reflection angle of the reflection members RM1 to RM4 included in the spatial information for each path included in the path population. Hereinafter, "first sound pressure attenuation rate") and the ratio of the sound pressure in the prohibited region to the output sound pressure (hereinafter referred to as "second sound pressure attenuation rate") are calculated.

After step S1121, the control device 10 executes the calculation of the sound pressure in the target region (S1122).
Specifically, the processor 12 calculates the first sound pressure SPt in the target region based on the first sound pressure attenuation factor and the output sound pressure calculated in step S1121.

After step S1122, the control device 10 executes the calculation of the sound pressure in the prohibited region (S1123).
Specifically, the processor 12 calculates the second sound pressure SPn in the prohibited region based on the second sound pressure attenuation factor and the output sound pressure calculated in step S1121.

After step S1123, the control device 10 executes the route selection (S1124).
Specifically, in the processor 12, the first sound pressure SPt is equal to or higher than a predetermined first threshold value TH1 and the second sound pressure SPn is smaller than the first threshold value TH1 in the path population. (See FIG. 8).
The processor 12 selects a route in which the sound pressure satisfies a predetermined selection condition from the extracted routes. The selection condition is, for example, at least one of the following.
-The path where the first sound pressure SPt is the maximum-The path where the first sound pressure SPt is the closest to the predetermined value-The path where the first sound pressure SPt is included in the predetermined range-The path where the second sound pressure SPn is the minimum-The first 2 Path where the sound pressure SPn is closest to the predetermined value ・ Path where the second sound pressure SPn is included in the predetermined range

After step S112, the control device 10 executes the generation of the control signal (S113).
Specifically, the storage device 11 stores an audio file.
The processor 12 calculates the direction of the parametric speaker 30 for radiating ultrasonic waves along the path selected in step S112.
The processor 12 generates a drive signal for directing the radiation direction of the ultrasonic wave in the calculated direction.
The processor 12 generates an ultrasonic radiation signal based on the output sound pressure.
The processor 12 refers to the audio file stored in the storage device 11 and transmits a control signal (combination of a drive signal and an ultrasonic radiation signal) for controlling the parametric speaker 30 to the parametric speaker 30.

After step S113, the parametric speaker 30 executes the emission of the audible sound beam (S130).
Specifically, the drive unit 32 supplies the drive signal transmitted from the control device 10 in step S113 to the direction changing mechanism 36.
The direction changing mechanism 36 directs the radiation direction of the ultrasonic transducer 35 to the direction determined in step S113 based on the drive signal.
The drive unit 32 supplies the ultrasonic radiation signal transmitted from the control device 10 in step S113 to the plurality of ultrasonic transducers 35.
Each ultrasonic transducer 35 vibrates based on an ultrasonic radiation signal.

According to this embodiment, the process proceeds along the route determined in step S113. As a result, this makes it possible for the target person TL to hear the sound without letting the non-target person NT hear the sound.

(5) Modification Example A modification of the present embodiment will be described.

(5-1) Modification 1
Modification 1 will be described. In the present embodiment, an example in which the subject can hear the audible sound by using specular reflection is shown, but the modification 1 is an example in which the subject TL is made to hear the audible sound by using the diffuse reflection.

(5-1-1) Outline of Modification Example 1 An outline of Modification 1 will be described. FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the modified example 1.

As shown in FIG. 9, the difference of the modification 1 from the present embodiment is that the path including the reflection member RM4 having the reflection characteristic of specular reflection is selected from the reflection members RM1 to RM4.

The control device 10 selects a path including the reflection attribute "diffuse reflection" from a plurality of paths by executing a spatial simulation.
Each path PA1 to PA3 includes the position Ps (xs, ys, zs) of the parametric speaker 30 and the coordinates of the reflection point (that is, the coordinates of a part of the reflection member RM4).

(5-1-2) Control of Parametric Speaker of Modification Example 1 Control of the parametric speaker 30 of Modification 1 will be described.

In step S111 (FIG. 5), the user inputs the coordinates of the position Ps to the field object F100a, inputs the coordinates of the position Pt to the field object F100b, inputs the coordinates of the position Pn to the field object F100c, and inputs the coordinates of the position Pn to the field object F100d. When the desired volume is specified in the field object F100g, "mirror reflection" is specified in the field object F100g, and the operation object B100 is operated, the control device 10 causes the field objects F100a to F100d and the condition information (condition information) input in the field objects F100g. The speaker position information, the first position information, the second position information, the volume information, and the reflection attribute "mirror surface reflection") are stored in the storage device 11.

In step S1120 (FIG. 6), the processor 12 refers to the spatial information data table (FIG. 4) to identify the record in which "specular reflection" is stored in the "reflection attribute" field.
The processor 12 is between the position Ps of the parametric speaker 30 indicated by the speaker position information and the target area indicated by the first position information in the route via the position indicated by the coordinates stored in the "coordinates" field of the specified record. The route connecting the two is specified as the route population.

According to the first modification, the audible sound beam emitted from the parametric speaker 30 travels along the path selected by the control device 10 and reaches the position Pt by being diffusely reflected by the reflection member RM4. .. As a result, the subject TL located at the position Pt (coordinates {xt, yt, zt}) can hear the audible sound emitted from the sound source formed on the reflective member RM4. In other words, the subject TL can feel that the reflective member RM4 is making a sound.

(5-2) Modification 2
Modification 2 will be described. Modification 2 is an example in which the subject TL moves.

(5-2-1) Outline of Deformation Example 2 An outline of Deformation Example 2 will be described. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the modified example 2.

As shown in FIG. 10A, the differences between the modified example 2 and the present embodiment are as follows.
-Point where the target person TL moves-Point where the sensor 50 is placed in the usage space SP

The sensor 50 is configured to detect the position of the subject TL. The sensor 50 is, for example, at least one of the following.
・ Infrared sensor ・ Image sensor ・ Ultrasonic sensor

The control device 10 executes a spatial simulation based on the coordinates (xt, yt, zt) of the position Pt detected by the sensor 50 at predetermined time intervals, and thereby determines a predetermined number from the plurality of paths PA1 to PA3. Select a path that meets the selection criteria.

The audible sound beam emitted from the parametric speaker 30 travels along the path selected by the control device 10 and is reflected by at least one of the plurality of reflecting members RM1 to RM4 in chronological order. The changing positions Pt0 (xt0, yt0, zt0) to Pt2 (xt2, yt2, zt2) are reached (FIG. 10B). As a result, the subject TL can hear the audible sound (however, the audible sound that cannot be heard by the non-target person NT) from the aerial sound source formed along the audible sound beam while moving in the used space SP. can.

(5-2-2) Control of Parametric Speaker of Modification Example 2 Control of the parametric speaker 30 of Modification Example 2 will be described.

In step S111 (FIG. 5), the user inputs the coordinates of the position Ps to the field object F100a, inputs the coordinates of the position Pn to the field object F100c, specifies the desired volume to the field object F100d, and operates the operation object. When the B100 is operated, the control device 10 stores the condition information (speaker position information, the second position information, and the volume information) input to the field objects F100a, F100c, and F100d in the storage device 11.

According to the second modification, even when the subject TL moves, the same effect as that of the present embodiment can be obtained.

In the second modification, the sensor 50 may acquire the position of the non-target person NT. In this case, the sensor 50 distinguishes between the target person TL and the non-target vehicle NL based on, for example, the acquired signal (for example, image information when the sensor 50 is an image sensor).

(5-3) Modification 3
Modification 3 will be described. Modification 3 is an example in which the parametric speaker 30 can be moved.

(5-3-1) Outline of Modified Example 3 An outline of Modified Example 3 will be described. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the modified example 3.

As shown in FIG. 11, the difference of the modification 3 from the present embodiment is that the parametric speaker 30 moves.
Specifically, the processor 12 is configured to control the position Ps of the parametric speaker 30.
The parametric speaker 30 is configured to move under the control of the processor 12. For example, the parametric speaker 30 is configured to move according to any of the following aspects.
-The parametric speaker 30 is arranged on a rail and moves along the rail.
-The parametric speaker 30 is provided with casters and moves as the casters rotate.
-The parametric speaker 30 is arranged on a moving body (for example, a drone) and moves with the movement of the moving body.

(5-3-2) Control of Parametric Speaker of Modified Example 3 Control of the parametric speaker 30 of Modified Example 3 will be described.

In step S111 (FIG. 5), the user inputs the coordinates of the position Pt to the field object F100b, inputs the coordinates of the position Pn to the field object F100c, specifies the desired volume to the field object F100d, and is an operation object. When the B100 is operated, the control device 10 stores the condition information (first position information, second position information, volume information, and reflection attribute “mirror surface reflection”) input to the field objects F100b to F100d in the storage device 11. do.

In step S1120 (FIG. 6), the processor 12 specifies a route connecting the position Ps of the parametric speaker 30 and the target region indicated by the first position information as a route population.

In step S113 (FIG. 5), the processor 12 calculates the coordinates (xs1, ys1, zs1) of the position Ps of the parametric speaker 30 for radiating ultrasonic waves along the path selected in step S112.
The processor 12 generates a drive signal for moving the parametric speaker 30 to the calculated position Ps. The drive signal includes the calculated coordinates (xs1, ys1, zs1).

In step S130, the parametric speaker 30 moves to the coordinates (xs1, ys1, zs1) included in the drive signal.

According to the third modification, the same effect as that of the present embodiment can be obtained without changing the radiation direction of the parametric speaker 30.

(5-4) Modification 4
A modification 4 will be described. Modification 4 is an example in which a plurality of parametric speakers 30 are used.

(5-4-1) Outline of Deformation Example 4 An outline of Deformation Example 4 will be described. FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of an outline of the modified example 4.

As shown in FIG. 12, the difference of the modified example 4 from the present embodiment is that a plurality of parametric speakers 30a to 30b are arranged in the used space SP.

The control device 10 selects a path satisfying a predetermined selection condition from a plurality of paths PA1 to PA3 by executing a spatial simulation.

The audible sound beam emitted from at least one of the parametric speakers 30a to 30b travels along the path selected by the control device 10 and is reflected by at least one of the plurality of reflecting members RM1 to RM4. , Reach position Pt. As a result, the subject TL located at the position Pt (coordinates {xt, yt, zt}) can hear the audible sound emitted from the aerial sound source formed along the audible sound beam.

(5-4-2) Control of Parametric Speaker of Modification 4 The control of the parametric speaker 30 of Modification 4 will be described.

In step S1120 (FIG. 6), the processor 12 searches for a route population with reference to the speaker position information of each parametric speaker 30a to 30b, the first position information, and the spatial information data table (FIG. 4). do. The route population is a route connecting the positions of the parametric speakers 30a to 30b indicated by the speaker position information and the target area indicated by the first position information.

In step S113, the processor 12 calculates the direction of each parametric speaker 30a-30b for radiating ultrasonic waves along the path selected in step S112.
The processor 12 generates a drive signal for directing the radiation direction of the ultrasonic wave in the calculated direction.
The processor 12 generates an ultrasonic radiation signal based on the output sound pressure.
The processor 12 transmits a control signal (combination of a drive signal and an ultrasonic radiation signal) for controlling the parametric speakers 30a to 30b to the parametric speakers 30a to 30b.

According to the fourth modification, since a plurality of parametric speakers 30a to 30b are used, the available routes are increased. This makes it possible to reduce the probability that a suitable route does not exist.

In the modified example 4, the control device 10 may radiate ultrasonic waves from a plurality of parametric speakers 30a to 30b at the same time.
For example, the processor 12 has differences in ultrasonic waves emitted from a plurality of parametric speakers 30a to 30b (for example, differences in sound pressure, differences in sound arrival time, and peaks and notches of head-related transfer functions. Emit with at least one of the notches). In this case, the subject TL can experience the perception of sound from a plurality of sound images. In particular, it is possible to provide at least one sense of localization in the up / down, left / right, and front / back by the synthetic sound image.

(5-5) Modification 5
A modified example 5 will be described. Modification 5 is an example of controlling the parametric speaker 30 in response to a user instruction.

In the first example of the modification 5, in step S111 (FIG. 5), the user inputs the coordinates of the position Ps to the field object F100a, inputs the coordinates of the position Pt to the field object F100b, and the position Pn to the field object F100c. When the desired volume is specified in the field object F100d, the desired upper limit number of times is specified in the field object F100e, and the operation object B100 is operated, the processor 12 is input to the field objects F100a to F100e. Condition information (speaker position information, first position information, second position information, volume information, and upper limit number of reflections) is stored in the storage device 11.

In step S1120, the processor 12 searches for the path population by referring to the speaker position information, the first position information, the spatial information data table (FIG. 4), and the upper limit number of reflections. The path population is a path connecting the position of the parametric speaker 30 indicated by the speaker position information and the target region indicated by the first position information, and the number of reflections in the reflection members RM1 to RM4 is equal to or less than the upper limit. It is a route.

In the second example of the modification 5, in step S111 (FIG. 5), the user inputs the coordinates of the position Ps to the field object F100a, inputs the coordinates of the position Pt to the field object F100b, and the position Pn to the field object F100c. When the desired volume is specified in the field object F100d, the desired sound direction is specified in the field object F100f, and the operation object B100 is operated, the processor 12 is input to the field objects F100a to F100e. Condition information (speaker position information, first position information, second position information, volume information, and sound direction information related to sound direction) is stored in the storage device 11.

In step S1120, the processor 12 searches for a path population by referring to the speaker position information, the first position information, the spatial information data table (FIG. 4), and the sound direction information. The path population is a path connecting the position of the parametric speaker 30 indicated by the speaker position information and the target area indicated by the first position information, and the sound traveling direction and sound direction based on the target person TL. This is a path that matches the sound direction indicated by the information.

(5-6) Modification 6
A modification 6 will be described. Modification 6 is an example of selecting an ultrasonic path based on the information contained in the audio file.

(5-6-1) Data Structure of Audio File The data structure of the audio file of the modification 6 will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a data structure of an audio file.

The audio file of FIG. 13A stores source audio information that is the source of audible sound reproduced by ultrasonic waves emitted from the parametric speaker 30.
The audio file includes a "playback time" field and a "sound direction parameter" field. Each field is associated with each other.

Information about the playback time is stored in the "playback time" field.

The "sound direction parameter" field stores sound direction parameters related to the sound direction. As shown in FIG. 13B, the sound direction parameters are represented by a coordinate system based on the subject TL (for example, an XYZ coordinate system).

(5-6-2) Control of Parametric Speaker of Modification 6 The control of the parametric speaker 30 of Modification 6 will be described.

In step S1120, the processor 12 searches for the route population with reference to the speaker position information, the first position information, the spatial information data table (FIG. 4), and the audio file (FIG. 13A). The path population is a path connecting the position of the parametric speaker 30 indicated by the speaker position information and the target area indicated by the first position information, and the sound indicated by the information in the "sound direction parameter" field of the audio file. It is a route toward the subject TL in the direction.

According to the sixth modification, the ultrasonic path is selected based on the sound direction parameters included in the audio file. As a result, the subject TL can hear the audible sound through a route suitable for the audible sound expressed by the audio file.

(5-7) Modification 7
A modified example 7 will be described. Modification 7 is an example of controlling the reflective member.

Actuators are arranged in the reflection members RM1 to RM4 of the modified example 7. The actuator is configured to change the reflection direction of the reflection members RM1 to RM4 (for example, the direction of the reflection surface of the reflection members RM1 to RM4).

In step S113 (FIG. 5), the processor 12 reflects the reflection member based on the timing at which the ultrasonic wave is radiated from the parametric speaker 30 in step S130 and the timing at which the ultrasonic wave reaches the reflection members RM1 to RM4. The drive timing of the actuators arranged in RM1 to RM4 is determined.
The processor 12 transmits a drive signal to the actuators arranged in the reflection members RM1 to RM4 at the determined drive timing.

In step S130, the actuators arranged in the reflecting members RM1 to RM4 change the direction of the reflecting surface based on the drive signal transmitted from the control device 10 in synchronization with the radiation of the ultrasonic waves of the parametric speaker 30.

According to the modified example 7, the same effect as that of the present embodiment can be obtained without changing the direction of the parametric speaker 30.

(5-8) Modification 8
A modification 8 will be described. Modification 8 is a modification in which the radiation direction is controlled by using an acoustic metamaterial.

(5-8-1) Configuration of Parametric Speaker of Modification 8 The configuration of the parametric speaker 30 of Modification 8 will be described. FIG. 14 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the parametric speaker 30 of the modified example 8. FIG. 15 is a schematic view showing the traveling direction of the ultrasonic waves radiated from the parametric speaker 30 of the modified example 8.

As shown in FIG. 14A, the parametric speaker 30 of the modified example 8 further includes an acoustic metamaterial 37. It has dimensions (hereinafter referred to as "thickness") in the radial direction (Z direction) of the acoustic metamaterial 37.
The acoustic metamaterial 37 is arranged at a position separated from the radiation surface 35a in the radiation direction (Z direction).

As shown in FIG. 14B, the acoustic metamaterial 37 of the first example of the modification 8 includes a plurality of waveguides 37a to 37b. The waveguide 37a includes a movable waveguide member 37aa. The waveguide 37b includes a movable waveguide member 37ba.

The waveguide members 37aa to 37ba are arranged in a direction (X direction) orthogonal to the radiation direction (Z direction) of the ultrasonic wave. The waveguide members 37aa to 37ba are configured to move in at least one direction in the X direction and the Y direction under the control of the control device 10.
When the waveguide member 37a moves, the distance (hereinafter referred to as “waveguide length”) of the ultrasonic wave in the waveguide 37a in the traveling direction (Z direction) changes.
When the waveguide member 37ba moves, the waveguide length of the waveguide 37b changes.

When the waveguide members 37aa to 37ba are arranged at positions forming different waveguide lengths, a difference in waveguide length occurs between the waveguide members 37aa to 37ba. Due to this difference in waveguide length, a phase difference is generated between the ultrasonic waves passing through the waveguides 37a to 37b. That is, the acoustic metamaterial 37 is configured to give a phase difference to the ultrasonic waves radiated from the radiation surface 35a. The phase difference given by the acoustic metamaterial 37 is determined by the waveguide length of each waveguide 37a to 37b. In other words, the acoustic metamaterial 37 has an acoustic coefficient corresponding to the waveguide length of each waveguide 37a to 37b.

As shown in FIG. 14C, the acoustic metamaterial 37 of the second example of the modified example 8 has waveguides 37a to 37b.
Each waveguide 37a to 37b has a variable opening size for a part of a direction (at least one direction in the X direction and the Y direction) orthogonal to the radiation direction (Z direction) of the ultrasonic wave. FIG. 14C illustrates a waveguide 37a having an opening size Wa and a waveguide 37a having an opening size Wb.
The difference in aperture dimensions of the waveguides 37a-37b creates an amplitude difference between the ultrasonic waves passing through the waveguides 37a-37b. That is, the acoustic metamaterial 37 is configured to give an amplitude difference to the ultrasonic waves radiated from the radiation surface 35a. The amplitude difference given by the acoustic metamaterial 37 is determined by the opening dimensions of the waveguides 37a-37b. In other words, the acoustic metamaterial 37 has an acoustic coefficient corresponding to the opening size of each waveguide 37a to 37b.

As shown in FIG. 15, when passing through the acoustic metamaterial 37, the ultrasonic wave USW0 radiated from the radiation surface 35a is given at least one phase difference and amplitude difference according to the acoustic coefficient of the acoustic metamaterial 37. Be done. The traveling direction of the ultrasonic wave USW1b given at least one of the phase difference and the amplitude difference shifts in at least one direction in the X direction and the Y direction. As a result, the sound travels in a direction different from that of the ultrasonic wave USW1a to which neither the phase difference nor the amplitude difference is given.

(5-8-2) Control of Parametric Speaker of Modification 8 The control of the parametric speaker 30 of Modification 8 will be described.

In the first example of the modification 8, in step S130 (FIG. 5), the drive unit 32 supplies the drive signal transmitted from the control device 10 in step S113 to the acoustic metamaterial 37.
The waveguide members 37aa to 37ba move based on the drive signal transmitted from the drive unit 32. As a result, there is a difference in the waveguide length of the ultrasonic waves of the waveguides 37a to 37b. This difference creates a phase difference between the ultrasonic waves passing through the acoustic metamaterial 37. As a result, the ultrasonic waves emitted from the acoustic metamaterial 37 travel in a direction different from that of the ultrasonic waves incident on the acoustic metamaterial 37.

In the second example of the modified example 8, in step S130 (FIG. 5), the drive unit 32 supplies the drive signal transmitted from the control device 10 in step S113 to the acoustic metamaterial 37.
The waveguide members 37aa to 37ba change the opening size based on the drive signal transmitted from the drive unit 32. As a result, an amplitude difference is generated between the ultrasonic waves of the waveguides 37a to 37b. As a result, the ultrasonic waves emitted from the acoustic metamaterial 37 travel in a direction different from that of the ultrasonic waves incident on the acoustic metamaterial 37.

According to the modified example 8, the same effect as that of the present embodiment can be obtained without changing the direction of the parametric speaker 30.

(5-9) Modification 9
A modification 9 will be described. Modification 9 is an example of controlling the reflection direction of the reflection member.

(5-9-1) Configuration of Reflective Member of Modification 9 Modification Example 9 will be described. FIG. 16 is a schematic view showing the configuration of the reflective member of the modified example 9.

As shown in FIG. 16A, the reflection member RM of the first example of the modification 9 is configured to have a variable reflection angle according to the control of the control device 10.

As shown in FIG. 16B, the reflective member RM of the second example of the modified example 9 includes an acoustic metamaterial 37. The acoustic metamaterial 37 has an acoustic coefficient that changes according to the control of the control device 10, as in the modification 8.

(5-9-2) Control of Reflective Member of Modification 9 The control of the reflection member RM of Modification 9 will be described.

In step S113 (FIG. 5), the processor 12 supplies the drive signal to the reflection member RM.

As shown in FIG. 16A, the reflection member RM of the first example of the modification 9 rotates based on the drive signal supplied by the processor 12. As a result, the reflection angle of the reflection member RM changes.

As shown in FIG. 16B, the acoustic metamaterial 37 of the second example of the modification 9 is deformed so as to change the thickness D based on the drive signal supplied by the processor 12. As a result, the reflection angle of the reflection member RM changes.

As a result, the ultrasonic waves incident on the reflecting member RM are reflected in the direction corresponding to the drive signal.

According to the modified example 9, the same effect as that of the present embodiment can be obtained without changing the direction of the parametric speaker 30.

(6) Other Modification Examples Other modification examples will be described.

When the spatial information data table (FIG. 4) is stored in the storage device 11 in advance, step S110 (FIG. 5) can be omitted.

The control device 10 may execute step S113 after searching for a path from the start to the end of sound source reproduction in step S112 (FIG. 5). That is, the control device 10 may start the control of the parametric speaker 30 after selecting the ultrasonic path for the entire period from the reproduction of the sound source to the start.
In particular, in FIG. 10, when the movement path of the target person TL can be specified in advance (for example, when the target person TL is on a moving body moving along the rail), the control device 10 uses the sound source. The control of the parametric speaker 30 may be started after selecting the ultrasonic path in consideration of the displacement of the first position information (xt, yt, zt) of the subject TL for the entire period from the reproduction to the start. ..

The control device 10 may search for a route while reproducing the sound source in step S112 (FIG. 5). That is, the control device 10 may repeatedly execute steps S112 to S113 while reproducing the sound source.

In the above embodiment, an example in which the acoustic coefficient is changed by deforming the acoustic metamaterial 37 has been described, but the present embodiment is not limited to this. The acoustic coefficient is also variable by at least one of the following methods.
-Change the thickness of the acoustic metamaterial 37-Change the distance between the acoustic metamaterial and the ultrasonic transducer 35

Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Further, the above-described embodiment can be improved or modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Moreover, the above-described embodiment and modification can be combined.

1: Audio system 10: Control device 11: Storage device 12: Processor 13: Input / output interface 14: Communication interface 30: Parametric speaker 32: Drive unit 34: Communication interface 35: Ultrasonic transducer 36: Direction change mechanism 37: Acoustic meta Material 50: Sensor

Claims (18)

It is a control device for parametric speakers.
A means for acquiring 3D layout information regarding the 3D layout of the space in which the parametric speaker is used is provided.
The first position information regarding the position of the first region where the audible sound formed by the ultrasonic waves emitted from the parametric speaker should be generated, and the second position information regarding the position of the second region where the progress of the ultrasonic waves should be prohibited. With means to obtain simulation conditions including
Based on the combination of the three-dimensional layout information, the first position information, and the second position information, the audible sound is generated in the first region from a plurality of paths between the parametric speaker and the target person. A means for selecting a route that is generated and does not generate the audible sound in the second region is provided.
A means for generating a control signal for controlling the path of ultrasonic waves radiated from the parametric speaker based on the selection result of the means for selection is provided.
Control device. The means for selecting selects a route in which the first sound pressure in the first region is equal to or higher than the first threshold value and the second sound pressure in the second region is lower than the first threshold value and equal to or lower than the second threshold value. do,
The control device according to claim 1. The selecting means selects a route that passes through the first region and does not pass through the second region.
The control device according to claim 1 or 2. The simulation condition includes the upper limit number of reflections in the reflection member existing in the usage space.
The selection means selects a route containing reflections of the upper limit or less.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The simulation condition includes sound pressure condition information indicating the first sound pressure in the first region.
The three-dimensional layout information includes reflection characteristic information regarding the reflection characteristics of the reflection member existing in the usage space.
The selection means selects the path with reference to the sound pressure condition information and the reflection characteristic information.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The reflection characteristic information indicates the attenuation factor of the ultrasonic wave and at least one of the reflection angles of the ultrasonic wave.
The control device according to claim 5. The reflection characteristic information indicates one of the attributes of specular reflection and diffuse reflection.
The control device according to claim 5 or 6. The means for acquiring the simulation condition acquires the sound pressure condition information from the source voice information.
The control device according to any one of claims 5 to 7. A means for detecting the position of the subject is provided.
The means for acquiring the simulation conditions refers to the information regarding the detected position as the first position information.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8. The generating means generates a drive signal for changing the radiation direction of the parametric speaker.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9. The generating means generates a drive signal for changing the direction of the radiation surface of the parametric speaker.
The control device according to claim 10. The generating means generates a drive signal for changing the position of the parametric speaker.
The control device according to claim 10 or 11. The generating means individually generates control signals for a plurality of parametric speakers.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 12. The generating means generates a drive signal for changing the direction of the reflecting surface of the reflecting member existing in the space of use.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 13. The generating means generates a control signal for controlling the acoustic coefficient of the acoustic metamaterial arranged in the parametric speaker.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 14. The generating means generates a control signal for controlling the acoustic coefficient of the acoustic metamaterial arranged on the reflective member existing in the space of use.
The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 15. A program for operating a computer as each means according to any one of claims 1 to 16. A parametric speaker that can be connected to the control device according to any one of claims 1 to 16.
Equipped with multiple ultrasonic transducers
A direction changing mechanism for changing the direction of the radiation surface of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers based on the control signal is provided.
Parametric speaker.

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