KR20040044814A - Apparatus for studying language - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: A device for learning a language is provided to automatically play a repeat time section for a predetermined number or a predetermined time by automatically recognizing a voice stop section. CONSTITUTION: A file loading module(103) loads a voice file stored in a language learning system. A setting module(115) sets up a playback time section, a repeated number, and a voice stop time. An automatic playback learning module(112) automatically plays the loaded voice file as much as the set time section for the predetermined number. A speech clinic module(113) automatically performs a unit process for a predetermined repeat number. The unit process plays the set time section and plays/records the voice input of the user. A self-learning module(114) records/plays the voice of the user by recognizing the section passing the voice stop time as the voice stop section.

Description

Apparatus for studying language

The present invention relates to a language learning apparatus, and more particularly, a function of loading a stored voice file installed in a computer or a language learning system and automatically replaying the stored voice file by a predetermined number of repetitions. It is possible to perform language learning more efficiently by playing for a set time and automatically performing a unit process of recording and playing with reference to the voice stop reference time by receiving the user's voice input as much as the set number of repetitions. And a language learning device capable of correcting false speech.

Generally, a cassette tape recorder is used for language learning. However, cassette tape recorders are gradually being pushed down due to various disadvantages, for example, difficulty in quickly accessing a desired position in the tape and inconvenient handling due to the volume of the tape itself.

In recent years, special devices for language learning using media other than tape, for example, CD-ROM, have emerged, and MP3 players capable of reproducing sound files for language learning have also emerged.

However, these dedicated devices, although equipped with various functions for effective learning, do not provide a function that can induce interest of the user.

For example, the playback or recording function is included by default, but there is no function to automatically play the repetition time section at a certain number of times by recognizing the voice pause time or section for a set time or automatically.

In addition, there is no function of reproducing a repetition time section by recognizing a voice pause section for a predetermined time or automatically, and receiving and recording a voice from a user.

As a result, the lack of such a function makes effective language learning difficult, and in particular, effective correction in pronunciation or intonation is not achieved.

Therefore, the present invention is proposed to solve such a conventional problem, the language learning can be automatically reproduced the repetition time interval at a predetermined number of times by recognizing the voice pause period for a predetermined time or automatically with a simple operation of the user The purpose is to provide a device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a language learning apparatus having a function of reproducing a voice file for a predetermined time or automatically recognizing a voice stop section and reproducing a user's speech by recording and playing a voice input from a user. To provide.

Another object of the present invention has a function of recognizing a section exceeding the voice stop reference time among voices input by referring to the set voice stop reference time as a voice stop section to record and play the previously input voice. It is to provide a language learning device.

Other objects and features of the present invention will be more clearly understood through the embodiments described below.

1 is a block diagram showing an example of a language learning system is installed language learning apparatus according to the present invention.

2A is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a language learning apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 2B is a flowchart illustrating a method of using a language learning apparatus for each function.

3 illustrates a screen interface of a language learning apparatus displayed on a computer.

According to an aspect of the present invention, the language learning apparatus is installed in a computer or language learning system having a voice input and output interface unit, and provided with a playback module for reproducing stored voice files and a recording module for storing input voice information as voice files. A load loading module for loading a voice file stored in a computer or a language learning system; A setting module for setting a time interval to be played, a repetition frequency, and a voice stop reference time when playing the loaded voice file; An automatic play learning module for automatically playing the loaded voice file repeatedly by a set number of times for a set time period; Automatically executes a unit process that plays the loaded voice file for the set time period, and records and plays it by referring to the voice stop reference time based on the user's voice input. Speech clinic learning module; A self-learning module that recognizes a section exceeding the voice stop reference time among voices input by referring to the voice stop reference time set by the setting module as a voice stop section, and records and reproduces only the voice of the user previously input; And a language learning apparatus including a control module for controlling the sequential execution of the mutual operation of each module and the performance meeting the set condition.

Preferably, the setting of the time interval by the setting module is carried out in an automatic mode for automatically recognizing and playing by specifying an optimal voice stop reference time or a user setting mode for selecting a time for the user to play, and the stored voice file is loaded. It can be selected during playback or from the beginning after loading. If the automatic mode is selected during playback, the speech clinic learning module and the automatic playback learning module recognize the last voice pause time before the current progress position and play the audio file from the last voice pause interval to the current progress position. Recognizes the first voice pause and the next voice pause, and plays the voice file between the intervals.

In addition, the speech clinic learning module and the automatic replay module play the audio file for the duration of the previously set playback time from the current progress when the user-defined mode is selected during playback. Play by dividing at regular intervals by time interval.

Preferably, when the voice of the user is input by the speech clinic learning module or the self-learning module, the voice stops a section exceeding the voice stop reference time among the input voices by referring to the voice stop reference time set by the setting module. Recognizes the section and records the previously input voice automatically.

In addition, preferably, when the microphone voice input of the recording module or speech clinic learning module or the self-learning module, the microphone setting volume control module that maintains the voice input in an optimal state by directly transferring the microphone volume change of the hardware to the control module further. Include.

Preferably, the playback module or the automatic playback learning module or speech clinic learning module may be provided with a back space (back space) function for reproducing after a predetermined time during playback.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a block diagram showing an example of a computer or language learning system is installed language learning apparatus according to the present invention.

The noise canceling / distributing device 200 is connected to a voice output device 500 such as a cassette tape recorder, etc., and a headset 400 having an input microphone, connected to a sound interface unit installed in the computer main body 100, and connected to an external speaker. It is also connected to the device 300.

The analog voice information input to the voice output device 500 or the headset 400 is removed from the noise, provided through the sound interface unit of the computer main body 100, and converted into digital voice information to the computer main body 100 for MP3 or WAV. It is saved as a voice file.

The language learning apparatus according to the present invention may be installed in the computer main body 100 in the form of a program in one embodiment or in the form of a microcomputer in the noise / distribution device 200 in another embodiment. In this embodiment, for convenience of explanation, the description will be made based on the configuration according to the function.

2A is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a language learning apparatus according to the present invention, FIG. 2B is a flowchart illustrating a method of using a language learning apparatus for each function, and FIG. 3 is a screen of a language learning apparatus displayed on a computer. Represents an interface.

The language learning apparatus according to the present invention basically has a function of reproducing a voice file and a recording function of storing an externally input voice as a file like other language learning apparatuses. Referring to Figure 3, the recording button 109, the play button 106, the pause button 107, the stop button 108 and other function buttons associated with this are displayed, in particular, press the pause button again during playback It has a back space function that retreats one second after playback, and the detailed description of other general button functions is omitted.

2 and 3, the file loading module 103 connected to the “OPEN” function button loads a voice file stored in the computer main body 100. In addition, a learning-only folder called "CAMEO" 101 may be created to collectively store learning-related voice files and load them in one-touch. When loading, for example, a voice file in MP3 or WAV form may be selected by default, and a voice synthesis sound such as TTS or another type of voice file may be supported. In addition, preferably, it is possible to increase the user's convenience by outputting a voice message related to the file open.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the setting module 115 sets playback conditions in the case of reproducing a voice file or a user voice by the automatic regeneration learning module 112, the speech clinic learning module 113, and the self learning module 114. It performs the function. That is, referring to FIG. 3, a user can set an appropriate playback condition using items indicated by "REPLAY TIMES" 115a, "VOICE STOP" 115b, and "REPLAY TERM" 115c.

The item "REPLAY TIMES" 115a refers to the number of repetitions, for example, can be set arbitrarily from one to five times. Depending on the number of repetitions set in this item, unit processors such as voice file replay or voice file replay-user voice replay-recorded voice replay are repeatedly executed.

"VOICE STOP" (115b) refers to the voice stop reference time. If voice is not input even if the voice stop reference time is exceeded among the input user voices, the voice input is determined to be terminated. Proceed. For example, when 2 seconds is set in the "VOICE STOP" item, if the user's voice is input first and then the next voice is input for more than 2 seconds, as described below, the control module 116 performs a voice input. It determines that it is finished and proceeds only with the first input voice.

The item "REPLAY TERM" 115c refers to a time played during AUTO REPLAY or FOLLOW ME learning, and is divided into an automatic mode and a user setting mode. In the automatic mode, the optimum voice pause time is automatically set to automatically play the voice pause section. In addition, in the user setting mode, playback is performed by the playback time set by the user regardless of the pause of the voice. For example, it is possible to arbitrarily set a time for which the user is playing between 2 and 15 seconds.

The automatic playback learning module 112 connected to the "AUTO REPLAY" function button at the bottom of FIG. 3 is configured to repeat the voice file loaded by the file loading module 103 by the number of repetitions set during the time interval set by the setting module 115. It plays the function of automatically playing and can play the function of playing the loaded voice file (A) or from the beginning (B).

In addition, the speech clinic learning module 113 connected to the "FOLLOW ME" function button reproduces the voice file loaded by the file loading module 103 for a set time for the position selected by the user and receives the user's voice input. One unit process of recording and playing is automatically performed as much as the set number of repetitions, and the function of playing (C) or starting from (D) the loaded voice file can be performed.

The self-learning module 114 associated with the "TALK & HEAR" function button voices a section exceeding the voice stop reference time among the voices of the user input by referring to the voice stop reference time 115b set by the setting module 115. It recognizes the stop section and automatically records and plays the previously input voice. It can perform the function of playing the loaded voice file (E) or from the beginning (F).

The file conversion module 102 connected with the " MP3 " function button is used to convert the MP3 form into the WAV form or vice versa.

The progress display module 105 displays the progress of the playback of the audio file in the form of a graphic bar. Preferably, the progress can be written in the number of seconds. After clicking the "PAUSE" 107 during playback, You can move to the playback position (seconds) from the beginning or by clicking on the bar.

The waveform comparison module 111 displays the waveform of the voice file of the voice file reproduced by the automatic reproduction learning module 112, the speech clinic learning module 113, or the self-learning module 114 together with the waveform of the input user voice. Allow the user to determine whether they are similar.

The volume control module 110 controls the volume of the output voice or input voice through the cassette tape recorder by adjusting the speaker which is the output device of the interface unit and the microphone which is the input device. It is connected to the volume control bar and the recording and playback volume control buttons and the microphone setting button.

In general, the program may not properly recognize the microphone volume change of the hardware and the voice stop time of the voice recognition engine may often fail to check in the control module 116. Therefore, by adding a microphone setting button in relation to the volume control module 110, the microphone volume can be clicked after the change of the microphone volume to directly transmit the change of the microphone volume to the voice recognition engine (language learner program) in the control module 116 for optimal voice. Recognition can be implemented. In addition, the strength and signal of the microphone voice input may be displayed in the graph bar form 104.

In addition, the control module 116 includes a voice recognition engine, and controls the sequential execution of the mutual operation of each module and controls each module to perform the operation according to the set condition.

Hereinafter, the operation of the language learning apparatus having such a configuration will be described. First, before the learning, the microphone setting button 110 is used to create a file to have an optimal environment and learn. There are two methods of creating a file: a method of directly recording and a method of downloading and loading already generated file data.

When recording directly, press the record button 109 to input the original sound, and when finished, press the stop button 108 to end. You can save the learning sound at the end and use it until you continue to master it, or you can save it to a temporary file without saving and delete it immediately after learning. In addition, if you save automatically in a specific folder, for example, a dedicated learning folder called "CAMEO", you can conveniently save it as a file of "CAMEO-year-date-hour-minute-second" format.

When only playback is performed using the file data already created, the playback button 106 is pressed to listen and the pause button 107 or the stop button 108 is terminated.

However, when playing for learning purposes, the "AUTO REPLAY" button 112, the "FOLLOW ME" button 113, and the "TALK & HEAR" button 114 can be efficiently learned.

It is assumed that the operation performed by each button is according to an arbitrary setting condition for convenience of explanation, and the repetition frequency is three times by the setting module 115, the voice stop reference time is 0.8 seconds, and the playback time is automatic. Mode was set.

First, the voice file stored in the language learning system including the computer main body is opened through the file loading module 103. Voice files are stored in MP3 or WAV format.

If you want to play the loaded voice file automatically, you can press the "AUTO REPLAY" function button from the beginning (A) or press the "PLAY" (106) function button and then press the "AUTO REPLAY" function button. There is (B), if you press the "AUTO REPLAY" button from the beginning (A) automatically recognizes the voice stop reference time and plays the repetition number of times until the next voice stop section and repeats the same operation until the end.

However, if the "AUTO REPLAY" button is pressed during playback of the loaded file while the play button 106 is pressed (B), playback is paused at the point where the button was pressed and the last audio pause section before that point is pressed. After recognizing, play only the repetition number of times from the last voice pause period to the current pause point, then pause is automatically released. After that, normal playback is performed without repetition.

If you want to select the Speech Clinic learning function by pressing the “FOLLOW ME” button 113, you can press the (C) or (D) function button during playback of the loaded file. The module 113 automatically recognizes the last voice pause time prior to the pause position at the moment when the "FOLLOW ME" button is pressed, and plays the original sound once from the last voice pause interval to the current pause position. Wait for you to enter your voice. When the voice is input from the user, if the voice is not input for 0.8 seconds referring to the voice stop reference time of 0.8 seconds, the unit process of recording and playing the input voice is repeated until the set number of times. The stop is automatically released and the normal playback 106 continues after that. If only the "FOLLOW ME" button is pressed without pressing the play button (D), the voice pause time to be automatically played is checked, and the voice is played once for the next voice pause period and the user waits for the voice input. If a voice is input from the user, if the voice is not input for 0.8 seconds, referring to the voice stop reference time 0.8 seconds, this series of process of recording and playing the input voice is repeated repeatedly until the end of the set number of times. do.

At this time, if the user's voice is not input in one process, the process does not proceed further. This feature allows the user to follow hard-to-hear areas to improve speech ability or compare and analyze waveforms to check for incorrect pronunciation or intonation.

On the other hand, when the self learning function is selected (F) by pressing the "TALK & HEAR" button 114, the user waits for the user to input a voice like the speech clinic function, and when the voice is input from the user, the voice stop reference time is 0.8 seconds. If no voice is input for 0.8 seconds, record and play back the input voice until then. When playback is complete, the user waits for another voice to be input. However, the difference between speech clinic learning is that speech clinic learning listens to the loaded original sound once and follows it once, but self-learning does not require the original sound to be spoken by the user's voice and continues listening and learns until mastery. . This function is appropriate for memorizing sentences, words and idioms, and can be applied to other oral exam exercises, stuttering disorders training, eloquence or speech, preaching or singing exercises.

When the self-learning function is selected (E) while playing the loaded file voice, the playback pauses and waits for the user to input a voice, similar to the speech clinic function. If no voice is input for 0.8 seconds referring to the second, the inputted voice is recorded and played until then. When playback is complete, the user waits for another voice to be input. However, the difference between speech clinics learning is that speech clinics can listen to the loaded original sound once and follow it once, but self-learning has no original sound reproduction, and it must learn by speaking and listening to the user's voice.

In the process of performing each of the above functions, the progress display module 105 shows the progress position of the reproduced voice file so that the target section for the automatic playback or speech clinic can be easily selected.

Further, the waveform comparison module 111 simultaneously displays the waveform of the voice file of the voice file and the waveform of the user's voice input corresponding thereto, so that an appropriate comparison and analysis can be performed.

Although the above has been described with reference to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, various changes can be made at the level of those skilled in the art.

For example, as described above, a microprocessor including logic corresponding to each module may be installed in the noise removing / distributing apparatus, and a function button corresponding thereto may be formed in hardware. In addition, it is possible to add a function button having an additional function or to remove a portion of the function button that is not necessary.

In addition, it is possible to compare voice waveforms more intuitively by differently overlapping colors on one graph without separately comparing waveforms.

In addition, it is possible to receive the sound voice file from the Internet learning file content, TTS (speech synthesis) and apply it to each module, and to record and send the learned contents to a voice mail.

Such changes or modifications are sufficiently to be realized at the level of those skilled in the art, and the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the above-described embodiments, but should be determined by the claims and equivalents described below.

As described above, the present invention has various advantages.

First, it can automatically listen to the contents by repetitively recognizing the voice pause section, and can listen to the broken sentence again with the back space function, which plays back one second after the pause. By applying this, it can be very helpful in case of transcript writing and dictation practice, and it is effective in learning foreign language listening.

In addition, by using the follow-up function, the user may input the voice along with the playback of the voice file at the same time, and compare and provide the voice waveforms, thereby improving foreign language speaking learning efficiency.

In addition, by providing a waveform for the voice input by the user and listening to the user's voice again can help memorization of interview oral exam practice, stuttering speech disorder treatment training, speech, words, sentences, and the like.

In addition, it is possible to check the learning results remotely by recording the learning content by sending it to a voice mail, it can be used as an educational equipment of schools, academies and the like.

Claims (8)

In a language learning apparatus installed in a computer or language learning system having a voice input and output interface unit, and having a playback module for reproducing stored voice files and a recording module for storing input voice information as voice files, A file loading module for loading a voice file stored in the language learning system; A setting module for setting a time interval to be played, a repetition frequency, and a voice stop reference time when playing the loaded voice file; An automatic play learning module for automatically playing the loaded voice file repeatedly a set number of times for a set time period; A unit process of playing the loaded voice file for a predetermined time interval and receiving and inputting the user's voice input and recording and playing the audio voice reference time by automatically setting the repetition frequency Speech clinic learning module to perform; Recognizing a section exceeding the voice stop reference time among voices of the input user as a voice stop section by referring to the voice stop reference time set by the setting module, recording and playing only the voice of the user inputted before Learning module; And And a control module for controlling the sequential execution of the respective operations of the respective modules and the performance meeting a set condition. The method of claim 1, wherein the setting of the time interval by the setting module is performed in an automatic mode or a user setting mode, and in the automatic mode, an optimum voice pause time is specified in advance and the voice pause period is automatically recognized. The speech clinic learning module and the automatic reproduction learning module automatically recognize the voice pause time and automatically play the voice stop section and the section when the automatic mode is selected by repeatedly playing the file. The speech clinic learning module and the automatic regeneration learning module are configured to set the playback pause time according to the user's environment in the user setting mode. Language learning apparatus, characterized in that for playing a file. According to claim 1, When the voice of the user is input by the speech clinic learning module or the self-learning module, referring to the voice stop reference time set by the setting module of the voice stop reference time of the input user voice A language learning apparatus for recognizing a section exceeding as a voice stop section and setting a voice stop reference time that can be automatically played by recording a previously input voice. The automatic play learning module according to claim 1, wherein when the automatic play learning module or the speech clinics learning module is selected while loading and playing the stored voice file, the automatic play learning module is referred to by referring to the playing time section, the voice stop reference time, and the number of repetitions. Or the language learning apparatus, characterized in that to play the contents of the voice file before the point of time selected the speech clinic learning module repeated number of times and afterwards without repetition. The method of claim 1, wherein when the automatic regeneration learning module or the speech clinic learning module is selected at the same time as the loading of the stored voice file, the replaying is repeated in the same manner by referring to the playing time section, the voice stop reference time, and the repetition frequency. Language learning apparatus, characterized in that. The microphone setting volume control module according to claim 1, wherein the microphone setting volume of the recording module or the speech clinic learning module or the self-learning module delivers the microphone volume change of the hardware directly to the control module to maintain the voice input in an optimal state. Language learning apparatus characterized in that it further comprises. The language learning apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a back space function for regenerating and rewinding a predetermined time when the play module or the auto play learning module or the speech clinic learning module is paused and played back.