WO2010013301A1

WO2010013301A1 - Content reproduction device and method

Info

Publication number: WO2010013301A1
Application number: PCT/JP2008/063514
Authority: WO
Inventors: 四郎鈴木
Original assignee: パイオニア株式会社
Priority date: 2008-07-28
Filing date: 2008-07-28
Publication date: 2010-02-04

Abstract

A content reproduction device (1) includes: a display (11); a pair of speakers (12a, 12b) arranged at both sides of the display at a fixed distance from the display; distance identification means (14) which specifies a distance from a viewer (5) to the display; audio signal processing means (16) which processes an audio signal so as to adjust the simulated inter-speaker distance between the pair of speakers in the auditory sense of a viewer; and control means (15). When Wsd is a lateral width of the image displayed on the display, Wdo is a distance from an ideal view position to the display recommended for the lateral width Wsd, Wdx is a specified distance, and Wsp' is an inter-speaker distance, the control means (15) controls the audio signal processing means to adjust the inter-speaker distance Wsp' so that the value of Wsp'/Wdx approaches the value of Wsd/Wdo.

Description

Content playback apparatus and method

The present invention relates to a content reproduction device for reproducing a content signal including, for example, an image signal and an audio signal read by an optical disc player from, for example, a flat display with a speaker, an AV (Audio Visual) system, a television device, and the like. It relates to the technical field of methods.

In this type of content playback apparatus, as AV content, an image emitted from a display and a sound emitted from a speaker are simultaneously experienced by a viewer. In this regard, a technique for improving an image, a technique for improving sound, and a sound field improving technique for forming a realistic sound space have been proposed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a sound reproduction method that improves the sense of reality by combining sound direction localization that reproduces a sense of perspective with directional sound image localization by linking volume adjustment processing and frequency signal processing. Is described. Patent Document 2 describes a multi-channel audio reproducing apparatus that automatically adjusts the characteristics of reproduced sound without connecting a microphone to the apparatus or arranging it at a predetermined position.

JP-A-3-114000 JP 2006-148880 A

However, according to the techniques described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, for example, a method in which the content of the content is transmitted with the highest presence or the most content in a seat near the center in a movie theater equipped with a huge screen and a high-performance surround system. The content is produced so that it can be viewed on the Internet. That is, there are many contents that have not been created so as to be suitable for viewing at home. For this reason, no matter how the image output or audio output is evolved, viewing using consumer devices in a general household may not be able to benefit from such evolution, or on the other hand, the sense of reality will be reduced. There is a technical problem that it may even happen.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, for example, and content reproduction that makes it possible to reproduce realistic content even when viewing at a general home using a consumer device or the like. It is an object to provide an apparatus and a method.

(Embodiment of content playback device)

In order to solve the above problems, a content reproduction apparatus according to the present invention is provided with a display that is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image according to the supplied image signal, and a distance from the display on both sides of the display. A pair of speakers mounted in a fixed manner and supplied with an audio signal and outputting audio in accordance with the supplied audio signal; distance specifying means for specifying a distance from a viewer to the display; and the audio By processing the signal, the distance between the speakers between the pair of speakers can be artificially increased / decreased on hearing by the viewer, and an audio signal for supplying the signal-processed audio signal to the pair of speakers The horizontal width of the image displayed on the processing means and the display is Wsd, and the image is displayed from the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd. When the distance to the spray is Wdo, the specified distance is Wdx, and the inter-speaker distance is Wsp ', the inter-speaker distance Wsp' is closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo and closer to the value of Wsp '/ Wdx. Control means for controlling the audio signal processing means so as to increase or decrease.

According to the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, at the time of its operation, first, a content signal including an image signal and an audio signal read out from a recording medium such as a DVD or an optical disk by a media reproduction apparatus including a pickup unit is received. Supplied.

For example, a television set, a flat display with a speaker, or a content playback device such as an AV system outputs a supplied image signal by a display and performs signal processing on a supplied audio signal. , Output by speaker.

In order for the video signal and the audio signal constituting the content signal to correspond to each other, such as video, animation, video live, or music with video, or to harmonize the contents of a series of content, Played. In reproducing the content, the video signal and the audio signal are sequentially input to the content reproduction apparatus.

The display performs image output according to the supplied image signal. That is, it is displayed on the screen of its own in the direct view type or on a screen separately provided in the projection type.

A pair of speakers are attached to both sides of the display, and a fixed distance from the display is fixed. Simultaneously with the image output of the image signal, the supplied audio signal is output by the pair of speakers. Here, the pair of speakers may be configured as a part of the normal content reproduction apparatus. On the other hand, it may be installed on both sides of the content reproduction apparatus so that it is connected to the content reproduction apparatus by wire or wirelessly for communication. Therefore, it is possible for the viewer to further increase the degree of freedom of speaker arrangement.

The distance specifying means specifies the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display prior to the output of the image by the display and the output of the sound from the speaker or almost simultaneously with the start of the output. As a specifying method here, the viewer may directly input the distance from the viewer's position to the display on a setting screen such as a display. On the other hand, a sound signal for measurement, for example, pink noise or white noise, is output from each speaker, and the distance Wdx is calculated from the detection result of the measurement signal in the sound collecting means such as a microphone disposed at the viewer's position, that is, You may measure indirectly. By the above-described method, for example, the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display may be directly measured, or the distances Wsplx and Wsprx from the viewer to the pair of speakers on both sides of the display are first measured. The distance Wdx may be calculated from the actual distance Wsp between the speakers, the distance Wsplx, and Wsprx.

Subsequently, the audio signal processing means including, for example, a processor, a memory, a converter, and the like processes the audio signal supplied from the player, so that the speaker between the pair of speakers is simulated in the sense of hearing by the viewer. The distance Wsp ′ can be increased or decreased. In the present invention, as will be described later, such increase / decrease is performed under the control of the control means. The audio signal processing means can make the viewer feel the sound spread by synthesizing and reproducing the reverberation sound signal generated in the viewing space and the original input audio signal, for example. At this time, the audio signal processing means is, for example, a wide processing unit that performs a wide processing on the audio signal, and includes a filter, an adder, and the like, and performs a process of expanding the sound image of the audio signal reproduced by a method called crosstalk cancellation. become.

Here, “audio signal processing” is processing that can change the impression that the audio output based on the audio signal gives to the viewer by some method, such as gain increase / decrease processing for each band or predetermined acoustic processing. It is a general term. At this time, the sound signal processing means performs separate signal processing for each sound signal corresponding to each channel, so that the sound pressure level of the sound output from each speaker, the timing at which the sound is output from each speaker, etc. Make changes to characteristics. For example, when a 2ch audio signal is input, the audio signal processing means executes signal processing for changing characteristics such as output timing and sound pressure for each 2ch channel. Then, the audio signal corresponding to each channel subjected to the signal processing by the audio signal processing means is supplied to the pair of speakers and output separately from each speaker.

The control means is a control unit including, for example, a processor, a memory, and the like, so that the ratio between the distance from the viewer to the display and the distance between the speakers becomes an encouragement ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, the golden ratio. In addition, the audio signal processing means is controlled. Specifically, the horizontal width of the image displayed on the display is Wsd, the distance from the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd to the display is Wdo, the distance specified by the distance specifying means is Wdx, and the speaker Let the distance be Wsp ′. At this time, the control means controls the audio signal processing means so as to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp 'so that the value of Wsp' / Wdx approaches the value of Wsd / Wdo. At this time, preferably or ideally, the control means controls the audio signal processing means so as to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ so that the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx matches the value of Wsd / Wdo. To do.

For example, when it is determined that Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space is smaller than Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space, the control means brings the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The audio signal processing means may be controlled so as to increase the virtual inter-speaker distance Wsp ′. Conversely, when Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space is larger than Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space, the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx is made closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The audio signal processing means may be controlled so as to decrease or not increase or decrease the signal.

Note that the content playback apparatus of the present invention may further include an image signal processing means. Here, the image signal processing means has the same function as the audio signal processing means. For example, the image signal is processed by an image signal processing means including a processor, a memory, etc., thereby increasing or decreasing the horizontal width of the image displayed on the display, and further supplying the image signal subjected to signal processing to the display.

In order to correspond to the image signal processing means, the control means performs the image signal processing so that the ratio of the distance from the viewer to the display and the distance between the speakers is an encouraged ratio in a professional viewing space, for example, a golden ratio. Control means. Specifically, the control means increases or decreases the horizontal width Wsd of the image displayed on the display so that the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx approaches the value of Wsd / Wdo, as in the method of controlling the audio signal processing means. The image signal processing means is controlled so as to make it happen.

For example, when it is determined that Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space is smaller than Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space, the control means brings the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The image signal processing means may be controlled so that the lateral width Wsd is not increased or decreased. On the contrary, when Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space is larger than Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space, the width Wsd is made smaller to bring the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The image signal processing means may be controlled.

As described above, the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention may be a single product such as a television apparatus, and includes a PDP (Plasma Display Panel), an AV amplifier, and a pair of speakers. It may be configured by a combination of products. At this time, the AV amplifier transmits size information for image output from the PDP through a communication interface such as HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), and a pair of speakers are installed on both sides of the PDP. Therefore, it becomes possible to automatically adjust the problem on the continuity between devices. Note that the PDP, the AV amplifier, and the pair of speakers may be physically separated from each other. For example, they may be sold separately, installed at different occasions, and exchanged at different occasions. In any case, the pair of speakers are attached to both sides of the display so that the distance from the display is fixed. Needless to say, a center speaker, a super woofer, a rear speaker, and the like other than the pair of speakers forming the front left and right speakers may be used together with the pair of speakers.

As described above, the audio signal processing means and the control means enable the image so that the ratio between the distance from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the distance between the speakers becomes the encouragement ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, the golden ratio. Output and audio output can be executed. Furthermore, by reproducing an audio signal that improves the sense of breadth for the viewer, it is possible to dynamically reproduce a viewing space with a sense of presence and a surround effect, and to create a sense of beauty through hearing. In addition, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a high-quality viewing space with powerfulness and presence without complicated operations.

In particular, it is relatively easy and practical to set the width of the image displayed on the display so as to satisfy the golden ratio relationship because it is difficult due to the size of the consumer display. The present invention, which provides a workaround, is very advantageous.

In another aspect of the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, the distance specifying means calculates the distance to the microphone placed at the viewer's position in the distance measurement mode prior to the display output and the audio output. The distance is measured based on the time until the measurement sound from the pair of speakers is picked up by the microphone.

According to this aspect, the distance specifying means measures the distance to the microphone placed at the viewer's position prior to outputting the image from the display and outputting the sound from the speaker. For example, when a microphone serving as a sound collecting unit is placed at the viewer's position and the content reproduction apparatus is once set to the distance measurement mode, a sound signal for measurement is transmitted from the speaker. Then, the transmitted sound signal for measurement is picked up by the microphone as the sound pickup means. Based on the time until the collected sound signal is picked up by the microphone, the distance from the pair of speakers to the microphone, that is, the distance from the viewer to the pair of speakers on both sides of the display, Wsplx and Wsprx, is measured.

Then, the distance Wdx is calculated from the actual distance Wsp between the speakers, the distance Wsplx, and Wsprx. In other words, the distance from the viewer to the display is indirectly measured by measuring the distance from the viewer to each of the pair of speakers.

With this configuration, the burden on the user can be reduced, and the accurate distance from the viewer to the display can be calculated easily and quickly. In addition, even for users who do not have knowledge about the content playback apparatus, it is easy to measure such distances, and the problem that the input is likely to be erroneous by the direct input method is hindered.

In another aspect of the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, the distance specifying means can input distance information from the viewer to the display measured in advance by the measuring means prior to the display output and the audio output. The distance is specified as a distance indicated by the input distance information.

According to this aspect, the distance specifying means inputs the distance from the viewer to the display prior to the output of the image by the display and the output of the sound by the speaker. The distance information input here is measured in advance by a predetermined measuring means, and distance information indicating the measurement result may be automatically input from the interface. Or the viewer who recognized the distance information which shows the measurement result may input by performing external operations, such as remote control operation. In the case of an input by an external operation, the distance specifying unit may prompt the input of the distance information by an external operation by display output or sound output, and the user performs an input operation in response to the prompt. Alternatively, for example, the viewer may directly measure the distance with a tape measure and input the measurement result on the setting screen.

With this configuration, it is easy to measure such distances, and indirect measurement methods using sound collection means such as microphones, the detection results fluctuate due to ambient noise in an environment where people are likely to enter and exit, such as living rooms. This prevents the problem of being generated.

In another aspect of the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, the content reproduction apparatus further includes storage means for storing the Wsd / Wdo value in advance, and the control means reads the stored Wsd / Wdo value and reads the read value. The audio signal processing means is controlled so as to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ so that the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx approaches the value of Wsd / Wdo.

According to this aspect, the incentive ratio between the horizontal width Wsd of the image displayed on the display in the professional viewing space and the distance Wdo from the ideal viewing position to the display recommended for the horizontal width Wsd, for example, the golden ratio Are stored in advance in storage means such as a memory. The ratio in the storage means is not particularly limited, such as being stored in the form of an arithmetic expression indicating the distance Wsd / distance Wdo or in the form of a lookup table.

In operation, the control means reads the value of Wsd / Wdo stored in the storage means, and the speaker distance Wsp ′ is closer to the read Wsd / Wdo value closer to the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx. The audio signal processing means is controlled so as to increase or decrease.

Therefore, it is possible to provide a dynamic viewing space by automatically adjusting the viewing space to the golden ratio without being conscious of the viewer.

In another aspect of the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, the audio signal processing means is configured to increase the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ when the value of Wsd / Wdo is greater than Wsp ′ / Wdx. And when the value of Wsd / Wdo is smaller than Wsp ′ / Wdx, the audio signal processing means is controlled so as not to decrease or increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′.

According to this aspect, when it is determined that Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space is smaller than Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space, the control means sets the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx to the value of Wsd / Wdo. Therefore, the audio signal processing means may be controlled so as to increase the virtual speaker distance Wsp ′. Conversely, when Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space is larger than Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space, the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx is made closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The audio signal processing means may be controlled so as to decrease or not increase or decrease the signal.

Therefore, it is possible to create a viewing space with a golden ratio by an extremely simple discrimination process, and to surely give the viewer a so-called aesthetic sense.

In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, another content reproduction apparatus of the present invention is provided with a display that is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image according to the supplied image signal, and a distance from the display on both sides of the display. A pair of speakers that are attached in a fixed form, that are supplied with audio signals and that output audio according to the supplied audio signals, and a distance that specifies the distance from the viewer to the display or the pair of speakers Generating an image signal for urging the viewer to move in a direction to reduce a difference between the specified distance and the first predetermined distance determined according to a width of the image; An image signal generating means for supplying the generated image signal, and an audio signal for urging the viewer to move in a direction to reduce the difference from the first predetermined distance. It generates and and at least one signal generation means of the audio signal generating means for supplying a voice signal said generated.

According to another content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, an image signal is output by a display, and an audio signal is output by a pair of speakers. The distance Wdx from the viewer to the display is specified by the distance specifying means, or the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display is indirectly measured by measuring the distances Wsplx and Wsprx from the viewer to each of the pair of speakers. Measured. Then, the ratio between the distance Wdx specified by the distance measuring means and the horizontal width Wsd of the image displayed on the display is an encouraged ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, the golden ratio or close to the golden ratio. The image signal generating means or the audio signal generating means prompts the viewer to move.

Specifically, the first predetermined distance Wdx ′ is determined according to the ratio of the first predetermined distance Wdx ′ to the lateral width Wsd being the golden ratio. Then, an image signal or an audio signal is generated by the image signal generation unit or the audio signal generation unit to urge the viewer to move in the direction of reducing the difference between the distance Wdx and the first predetermined distance Wdx ′. Also good. The generated image signal or audio signal prompts the viewer to move.

At this time, an image signal for prompting to move the viewer may be generated, or an audio signal for prompting to move the viewer may be generated by the sound generation unit, or an image may be generated. It may be generated by the sound generation means as well as generated by the generation means. The generated image signal or audio signal, or a combination of both image and audio signals, prompts the viewer to move to an ideal viewing position, such as a golden ratio.

For example, when it is determined that the ratio of the distance Wdx to the width Wsd is smaller than the golden ratio, that is, when the distance Wdx is shorter than the first predetermined distance Wdx ′, the value of Wdx / Wsd becomes the golden ratio. Prompt to move far from the display. Conversely, if the ratio between the distance Wdx and the width Wsd is determined to be larger than the golden ratio, that is, if the distance Wdx is longer than the first predetermined distance Wdx ′, the value of Wdx / Wsd becomes the golden ratio. To move the display closer to the display.

As described above, the image signal generating unit and the audio signal generating unit allow the ratio of the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the horizontal width Wsd of the image displayed on the display to be the golden ratio. Output and audio output can be executed. Furthermore, it is possible to make the viewer feel aesthetically through hearing. Moreover, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a realistic viewing space without complicated operations.

In particular, when it is difficult to set the golden ratio relationship even for the width of the image displayed on the display, the environment close to the golden ratio should be achieved within the range that can be achieved even with the size of a consumer display. The present invention which makes it possible to realize is very advantageous.

In another aspect of the other content reproduction apparatus of the present invention, by performing signal processing on the audio signal, the distance between the speakers between the pair of speakers can be artificially increased or decreased on hearing by the viewer, The audio signal processing means for supplying the signal-processed audio signal to the pair of speakers, and the inter-speaker distance is simulated at a second predetermined distance determined according to the distance from the specified viewer to the display. Control means for controlling the audio signal processing means so as to approach the target.

According to this aspect, the audio signal processing means including a processor, a memory, a converter, etc., for example, processes the audio signal supplied from the player so that the pair of speakers can be simulated in the sense of hearing by the viewer. It is possible to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′. For example, the reverberation sound signal generated in the viewing space and the audio signal are synthesized and reproduced to make the viewer feel the sound spread. For example, it is a wide processing unit that performs a wide processing on an audio signal, for example, and includes a filter, an adder, and the like, and performs a process of expanding the sound image of the audio signal reproduced by a method called crosstalk cancellation.

The control means is a control unit including, for example, a processor, a memory, and the like, and the audio signal processing means is set so that the ratio of the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display and the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ becomes the golden ratio. To control.

Specifically, for example, the second predetermined distance Wsp2 is determined according to the ratio of the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display and the second predetermined distance Wsp2 being the golden ratio. Then, for example, the control means determines that the ratio of the distance Wdx to the speaker distance Wsp ′ is smaller than the golden ratio, that is, if the speaker distance Wsp ′ is greater than the second predetermined distance Wsp2, Wdx / Wsp ′. The audio signal processing means is controlled so as to bring the value of close to the golden ratio, that is, so as not to increase or decrease the virtual inter-speaker distance Wsp ′. Conversely, when the ratio of the distance Wdx to the speaker distance Wsp ′ is determined to be larger than the golden ratio, that is, when the speaker distance Wsp ′ is smaller than the second predetermined distance Wsp2, the value of Wdx / Wsp ′ is set to the golden ratio. The sound signal processing means is controlled so that the distance between the speakers Wsp ′ is increased.

As described above, the audio signal processing means and the control means can be realized such that the ratio of the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ becomes the golden ratio. Furthermore, by reproducing an audio signal that improves the sense of breadth for the viewer, it is possible to dynamically reproduce a viewing space with a sense of presence and a surround effect, and to create a sense of beauty through hearing. Moreover, the viewer can automatically adjust the viewing space to the golden ratio without being conscious of the viewer, thereby providing a realistic viewing space.

It should be noted that other content reproduction apparatuses of the present invention can take various aspects similar to those of the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention described above.

(Embodiment of content playback method)

In order to solve the above problems, a content reproduction method according to the present invention is provided with a display that is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image according to the supplied image signal, and a distance from the display on both sides of the display. A content playback method in a content playback apparatus, comprising a pair of speakers attached in a fixed manner, to which an audio signal is supplied and that outputs audio in accordance with the supplied audio signal, from a viewer to the display The distance identification step for identifying the distance between the pair of speakers can be artificially increased / decreased in the auditory sense of the viewer by signal processing the audio signal and the signal processing is performed. An audio signal processing step of supplying an audio signal to the pair of speakers, and a horizontal width of an image displayed on the display as Ws When the distance from the ideal viewing position recommended for the width Wsd to the display is Wdo, the specified distance is Wdx, and the distance between the speakers is Wsp ′, the value of Wsd / Wdo is A control step of controlling the audio signal processing means so as to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ on the side where the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx approaches.

According to the content reproduction method of the present invention, the ratio of the distance from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the distance between the speakers by the audio signal processing step and the control step is the recommended ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, golden Image output and audio output can be executed so that the ratio becomes equal. Furthermore, by reproducing an audio signal that improves the sense of breadth for the viewer, it is possible to dynamically reproduce a viewing space with a sense of presence and a surround effect, and to create a sense of beauty through hearing. In addition, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a high-quality viewing space with powerfulness and presence without complicated operations.

It should be noted that the content reproduction method of the present invention can also adopt various aspects similar to those of the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention described above.

In order to solve the above-described problem, another content reproduction method of the present invention supplies a display to which an image signal is supplied and outputs an image corresponding to the supplied image signal, and distances from the display to both sides of the display. A content playback method in a content playback apparatus, comprising a pair of speakers to which audio signals are supplied and audio output according to the supplied audio signals is attached, wherein the display is received from a viewer Alternatively, the viewer is moved in a direction to reduce the difference between the distance specifying step for specifying the distance to the pair of speakers and the first predetermined distance determined according to the specified distance and the width of the image. An image signal generating step for generating an image signal for prompting and supplying the generated image signal, and a difference from the first predetermined distance And at least one signal generation step of audio signal generating step of supplying a voice signal generated and the generated audio signal to the effect that prompts that the direction to reduce moving the viewer.

According to the content reproduction method of the present invention, the ratio of the distance Wdx from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the horizontal width Wsd of the image displayed on the display is golden by the image signal generation unit and the audio signal generation unit. It becomes feasible to become ratio. Furthermore, it is possible to make the viewer feel aesthetically through hearing. Moreover, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a realistic viewing space without complicated operations.

It should be noted that, in the other content reproduction method of the present invention, various aspects similar to those of the above-described other content reproduction device of the present invention can be adopted.

The operation and other advantages of the present invention will be clarified from the best mode for carrying out the invention to be described below.

As described above in detail, the content reproduction apparatus of the present invention includes the audio signal processing means and the control means, while the content reproduction method of the present invention includes the audio signal processing step and the control step. Image output and audio output can be executed such that the ratio between the distance from the viewer to the display and the distance between the speakers becomes an encouraged ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, the golden ratio. Furthermore, by reproducing an audio signal that improves the sense of breadth for the viewer, it is possible to dynamically reproduce a viewing space with a sense of presence and a surround effect, and to create a sense of beauty through hearing.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the content reproduction apparatus which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows the professional viewing-and-listening space which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a top view which shows viewing space when the audio | voice signal processing part which concerns on embodiment of this invention operate | moves. It is a top view which shows viewing space when the image signal generation part and audio | voice signal generation part which concern on embodiment of this invention operate | move. It is a block diagram which shows the audio | voice signal processing part which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart shown about the content reproduction method which concerns on embodiment of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Content reproduction apparatus, 2 ... Player, 3 ... Disc, 5 ... Viewer, 11 ... Display, 12a, 12b ... Speaker, 13 ... Memory, 14 ... Distance specific | specification part, 15 ... Control part, 16 ... Audio | voice signal processing part , 17 ... Image signal generator, 18 ... Audio signal generator

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the content reproduction apparatus and method of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

First, the overall configuration of the content reproduction apparatus 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the content reproduction apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

In FIG. 1, a content reproduction apparatus 1 is, for example, a television apparatus, and includes a display 11, a pair of

speakers

12a and 12b, a memory 13, a distance specifying unit 14, a control unit 15, an audio signal processing unit 16, and an image signal generation unit 17. And an audio signal generator 18.

As shown in FIG. 1, the content playback apparatus 1 first receives a content signal including an image signal and an audio signal read by a player 2 including a pickup unit from a disk 3 such as a DVD during operation. Supplied. Here, the type of the disc 3 is not limited to the number of recording layers, and various types such as a BlueRay disc, HD-DVD, DVD, and CD can be considered. In any case, the disc 3 has information such as AV contents to be reproduced by the player 2. The supplied image signal and audio signal are processed by the content reproduction apparatus 1 and further output to the viewer 5 by the display 11 and the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b.

The pair of

speakers

12a and 12b are a front right speaker and a front left speaker. Typically, a right audio signal and a left audio signal for stereo sound are input to these speakers, respectively. Rear speakers and super woofers other than these may be connected, and in this case, 5.1-channel surround sound signals are respectively input to these speakers.

The memory 13 is an example of the “storage means” according to the present invention, and displays the horizontal width Wsd of the image displayed on the display 11 in the professional viewing space and the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd. An incentive ratio with a distance Wdo up to 11, for example, a golden ratio, that is, a value of Wsd / Wdo is stored in advance. The ratio stored in the memory 13 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

The distance specifying unit 14 is an example of the “distance specifying unit” according to the present invention, and calculates the distance Wdx from the viewer 5 to the display 11 prior to outputting an image from the display 11 and outputting sound from the

speakers

12a and 12b. Identify.

As a specifying method, the distance specifying unit 14 outputs a sound signal for measurement, for example, pink noise or white noise, from each of the

speakers

12a and 12b, and performs measurement in sound collecting means such as a microphone disposed at the position of the viewer 5. The distance Wdx is calculated from the detection result of the signal for use, that is, the distance Wdx from the viewer 5 to the display 11 is indirectly measured. The operation of the distance specifying unit 14 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

The control unit 15 is an example of the “control unit” according to the present invention, and includes, for example, a processor, a memory, and the like.

First, the control unit 15 sets the horizontal width of the image stored on the display 11 stored in the memory 13, for example, the golden ratio to Wsd / the distance from the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd to the display 11. Read the value of Wdo. Then, the control unit 15 sets the distance specified by the distance specifying unit 14 as Wdx, and sets the distance between the

speakers

12a and 12b as Wsp '. The audio signal processing unit 16, the image signal generation unit 17, and the audio signal generation unit 18 are controlled so as to increase or decrease the distance Wsp ′. The operation of the control unit 15 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS.

The audio signal processing unit 16 is an example of the “audio signal processing means” according to the present invention, and includes, for example, a processor, a memory, a converter, and the like. The audio signal processing unit 16 can process the audio signal supplied from the player 2 to increase or decrease the speaker-to-speaker distance Wsp ′ between the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b in an auditory sense by the viewer 5. . That is, the audio signal processing unit 16 is a wide processing unit that performs a wide processing on the audio signal, and includes a filter, an adder, and the like, and performs a process of expanding the sound image of the audio signal reproduced by a method called crosstalk cancellation. The audio signal subjected to signal processing is supplied to the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b. The audio signal processing unit 16 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG.

The image signal generator 17 is an example of the “image signal generator” according to the present invention. The first predetermined distance Wdx 'is determined in accordance with the ratio of the first predetermined distance Wdx' to the lateral width Wsd being the golden ratio. Then, the image signal generation unit 17 generates an image signal for prompting the viewer 5 to move in the direction of reducing the difference between the distance Wdx and the first predetermined distance Wdx ′. The generated image signal is supplied to the display 11 and output, thereby prompting the viewer 5 to move in the direction of reducing the difference from the first predetermined distance.

The audio signal generator 18 is an example of the “audio signal generator” according to the present invention. Similar to the image signal generation unit 17, the audio signal generation unit 18 generates an audio signal that prompts the viewer 5 to move in the direction of reducing the difference between the distance Wdx and the first predetermined distance Wdx ′. The generated audio signal is supplied to and output from the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b, thereby prompting the viewer 5 to move in a direction that reduces the difference from the first predetermined distance.

The display 11 is a device that can output an image signal as an image, such as a plasma display, a liquid crystal display, a projector, or a monitor, and is generated by the image signal supplied from the player 11 and the image signal generator 17. The image signal is output to the viewer 5 in accordance with the received image signal.

The pair of

speakers

12 a and 12 b outputs the audio signal to the viewer 5 in accordance with the supplied audio signal and the audio signal generated by the audio signal generator 18.

With the above configuration, the ratio of the distance from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the distance between the speakers can be an encouraged ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, the golden ratio. Furthermore, by reproducing an audio signal that improves the sense of breadth for the viewer, it is possible to dynamically reproduce the viewing space with a sense of presence and surround effect, and to create a sense of beauty through hearing. In addition, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a high-quality viewing space with powerfulness and presence without complicated operations.

In particular, it is difficult to set the relationship of the golden ratio even for the width of the image displayed on the display because of the size of the consumer display. The present invention is very advantageous.

Next, the ratio stored in the memory 13 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a professional viewing space according to the embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 2, a professional sound mixer 100 uses a professional display device 101 and

speakers

102a and 102b to mix AV content. A pair of

speakers

102 a and 102 b are attached to both sides of the display 101.

At this time, the horizontal width of the image displayed on the display 101 in the professional viewing space is Wsd, and the distance between the sound mixer 100 and the display 101, that is, the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd is displayed. Let the distance to 101 be Wdo. The value of Wsd / Wdo, the golden ratio that normally has aesthetics, is stored in the memory 13 in advance. The actual distance Wsp between the

speakers

12a and 12b is also stored in the memory 13 in advance.

According to this configuration, the value of Wsd / Wdo and Wsp, which are the golden ratio stored in the memory 13 or close to the golden ratio, are read by the control unit 15 and further processed by the control unit 15. This makes it possible to provide a realistic viewing space.

Next, processing of the distance specifying unit 14 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a viewing space when the audio signal processing unit 16 according to the embodiment operates.

As shown in FIG. 3, the image signal supplied with the display 11 is output to the viewer 5, and the audio signal supplied with the

speakers

12a and 12b is output. The pair of

speakers

12 a and 12 b are fixed at a distance from the display 11 and are attached to both sides of the display 11.

The distance specifying unit 14 first measures the distances Wsplx and Wsprx from the viewer 5 to the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b on both sides of the display 11, and uses the actual distances Wsp and the distances Wsplx and Wsprx between the

speakers

12a and 12b. A distance Wdx is calculated.

Specifically, when a microphone 6 serving as a sound collection unit is placed at the position of the viewer 5 and the content reproduction apparatus 1 is once set to the distance measurement mode, an audio signal for measurement is output from the

speakers

12a and 12b. Called. Then, the transmitted sound signal for measurement is picked up by the microphone 6. Based on the time until the collected sound signal is picked up by the microphone 6, the distance from the pair of

speakers

12 a and 12 b to the microphone 6, that is, from the viewer 5 to the pair of

speakers

12 a and 12 b on both sides of the display 11. Distances Wsplx and Wsprx are measured.

The distance Wdx is calculated from the actual distance Wsp, the distances Wsplx and Wsprx between the

speakers

12a and 12b read from the memory 13.

With this configuration, the burden on the user can be reduced, and the accurate distance from the viewer to the display can be calculated easily and quickly.

Next, processing of the control unit 15 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a plan view showing a viewing space when the image signal generation unit 17 and the audio signal generation unit 18 according to the embodiment operate.

When it is determined that Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space is greater than Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space, the control unit 15 brings the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The audio signal processing unit 16 is controlled so as to increase the typical inter-speaker distance Wsp ′.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, when the audio signal is widened by the audio signal processing unit 16, the speaker-to-speaker distance Wsp between the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b is artificially heard by the viewer 5. 'Increase. That is, the position of the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b is moved to 22a and 22b in a simulated manner.

Conversely, if Wsd / Wdo in the professional viewing space is not greater than Wsp ′ / Wdx in the actual viewing space, viewer 5 is encouraged to bring the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo. The image signal generation unit 17 and the audio signal generation unit 18 are controlled so as to prompt the user to move to an ideal viewing position, for example, a position where the golden ratio is achieved.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, first, the first predetermined distance Wdx 'is calculated in accordance with the ratio of the first predetermined distance Wdx' to the lateral width Wsd being the golden ratio. Next, the difference between the distance Wdx and the first predetermined distance Wdx ′ is reduced according to the calculated first predetermined distance Wdx ′. For example, if the difference between the first predetermined distance Wdx ′ and the distance Wdx is 15 centimeters, the image signal generation unit 17 generates an image signal of, for example, “Please move back 15 centimeters” and the generated image The signal is displayed on the screen by the display 11, and the audio signal generation unit 18 generates an audio signal of, for example, “Please move 15 centimeters backward”, and the generated audio signal is output by the

speakers

12a and 12b. The Therefore, the viewer 5 is prompted to move to the position 5a from the display 11 to the first predetermined distance Wdx ', that is, the place where the golden ratio is achieved.

Therefore, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a realistic viewing space without performing complicated operations.

Furthermore, the processing of the audio signal processing unit 16 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the audio signal processing unit 16 according to the embodiment.

In FIG. 5, the audio signal processing unit 16 includes a clip prevention unit 16a, an effector 16b, a gain control unit 16c, and an addition unit 16d.

The clip prevention unit 16a is provided with, for example, a clip detection circuit. The clip detection circuit detects the clip state of the input audio signal and increases the resistance value of the gain adjustment resistor of the gain control unit 16c. The level of the audio signal input to the audio signal processing unit 16 is suppressed automatically. Therefore, distortion of sound output from the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b is prevented. The audio signal processed by the clip prevention unit 16a is transmitted to the effector 16b for wide processing and also transmitted to the addition unit 16d for addition.

The effector 16b is a device that changes the sound to be different from the original sound, and changes the characteristics such as the sound pressure level of the sound signal and the output timing. For example, when a 2ch audio signal is input, the effector 16b executes signal processing for changing characteristics such as output timing and sound pressure for each of the 2ch channels.

The gain controller 16c controls the audio signal processed by the effector 16b to increase the gain.

The adding unit 16d adds the original audio signal transmitted from the clip prevention unit 16a without being subjected to wide processing, that is, the audio signal subjected to wide processing by the effector 16a. Then, the audio signal corresponding to each channel subjected to the signal processing by the audio signal processing unit 16 is supplied to the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b, and is output separately from each speaker.

Next, a content reproduction method in the content reproduction apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the content reproduction method according to the embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, first, as an example of “reading Wsp and Wsd / Wdo” according to the present invention, the control unit 15 displays on the display 11 in the professional viewing space stored in the memory 13 (see FIG. 1). An incentive ratio, for example, a golden ratio, between the horizontal width Wsd of the image to be displayed and the distance Wdo from the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd to the display 11 is read (step S101).

Next, as an example of “measuring Wsplx and Wsprx” according to the present invention, the distance Wsplx from the viewer 5 to the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b on both sides of the display 11 by the distance specifying unit 14 (see FIG. 3). And Wsprx are measured. (Step S102).

Then, as an example of “calculating Wdx” according to the present invention, the distance Wdx is calculated from the actual distance Wsp between the

speakers

12a and 12b read from the memory 13 and the distances Wsplx and Wsprx measured by the distance measuring unit. Is done. (Step S103).

Next, as an example of “Wsd / Wdo> Wsp ′ / Wdx?” According to the present invention, the value of the lateral width Wsd / distance Wdo read out by the control unit 15 is calculated from the calculated value of Wsp ′ / Wdx. It is determined whether or not it is larger. (Step S104).

Next, when it is determined that Wsd / Wdo is greater than Wsp ′ / Wdx (the result of determination in step S104: Yes), as an example of “controlling to increase Wsp ′” according to the present invention, the control unit 15, the audio signal processing unit 16 is controlled to increase the distance Wsp ′ between the

virtual speakers

12a and 12b in order to bring the value of Wsp ′ / Wdx closer to the value of Wsd / Wdo (step S105). .

Next, as an example of “widely processing an audio signal” according to the present invention, the supplied audio signal is subjected to wide processing by the audio signal processing unit 16, and the audio signal subjected to the wide processing is subjected to the

next speakers

12 a and 12 b. (Step S106).

Next, as an example of “outputting an image signal” according to the present invention, the image signal received by the display 11 is output as an image. (Step S107).

Next, in parallel with or in parallel with the image output, as an example of “outputting an audio signal” according to the present invention, an audio signal that has been subjected to wide processing by the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b is output as an audio signal. (Step S108).

Next, returning to step S104, if it is determined that Wsd / Wdo is not greater than Wsp ′ / Wdx (the result of determination in step S104: No), the “prompt to move the viewer” according to the present invention. As an example of “generating an image signal of”, the image signal generation unit 17 prompts the viewer 5 to move the viewer 5 to an ideal viewing position encouraged, for example, a position where the golden ratio is achieved (see FIG. 4). An image signal is generated and transmitted to the display 11 for image output (step S109).

In parallel with or in parallel with the generation of the image signal that prompts the viewer to move (step S108), the voice signal that prompts the viewer to move is generated. As an example of “to do”, an audio signal is generated by the audio signal generation unit 18 so as to prompt the viewer 5 to move to an ideal viewing position encouraged, for example, a position where the golden ratio is achieved (see FIG. 4). Then, it is transmitted to the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b for outputting sound (step S110).

Next, as an example of “outputting an image signal” according to the present invention, an image signal generated and received by the display 11 is output as an image. (Step S107).

Next, in parallel with or before and after the image output, as an example of “output an audio signal” according to the present invention, an audio signal generated and received by the pair of

speakers

12a and 12b is output as audio. (Step S108).

Through the above series of processing, the ratio of the distance from the viewer to the display in the viewing space and the distance between the speakers becomes the encouragement ratio in the professional viewing space, for example, the golden ratio. Furthermore, by reproducing an audio signal that improves the sense of breadth for the viewer, it is possible to dynamically reproduce the viewing space with a sense of presence and surround effect, and to create a sense of beauty through hearing. In addition, it is not necessary for the viewer to have specialized knowledge, and it is possible to experience a high-quality viewing space with powerfulness and presence without complicated operations.

Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be appropriately changed within the scope of the invention or the concept that can be read from the entire claims and the specification, and content accompanying such changes. A playback apparatus and method are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

The present invention relates to a technical field of a content reproduction apparatus and method for reproducing a content signal including an image signal and an audio signal read by an optical disc player, for example, from a flat display with a speaker, an AV system, a television apparatus, etc. Is available.

Claims

A display which is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image corresponding to the supplied image signal;
A pair of speakers that are attached to both sides of the display so that the distance from the display is fixed, to which an audio signal is supplied and that outputs an audio corresponding to the supplied audio signal;
Distance specifying means for specifying the distance from the viewer to the display;
By processing the audio signal, the distance between the speakers between the pair of speakers can be artificially increased or decreased on hearing by the viewer, and the signal-processed audio signals are supplied to the pair of speakers. Audio signal processing means;
The horizontal width of the image displayed on the display is Wsd, the distance from the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd to the display is Wdo, the specified distance is Wdx, and the distance between the speakers is Wsp ′. Control means for controlling the audio signal processing means so as to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp 'on the side where the value of Wsp' / Wdx approaches the value of Wsd / Wdo. Content playback apparatus.
Prior to the display output and the audio output, the distance specifying means indicates the distance to the microphone placed at the viewer's position in the distance measurement mode, and the measurement audio from the pair of speakers is applied to the microphone. 2. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the distance is measured based on a time until it is picked up.
Prior to the display output and the audio output, the distance specifying means is configured to be able to input distance information from the viewer to the display, which is measured in advance by the measuring means, and based on the input distance information The content reproducing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the distance is specified as the indicated distance.
Storage means for storing the value of Wsd / Wdo in advance;
The control means reads the stored Wsd / Wdo value, and increases or decreases the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ so that the Wsp ′ / Wdx value approaches the read Wsd / Wdo value. The content reproduction apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the audio signal processing means is controlled as described above.
The control means includes
Controlling the audio signal processing means to increase the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ when the value of Wsd / Wdo is larger than the Wsp ′ / Wdx,
2. The audio signal processing means is controlled so that the inter-speaker distance Wsp ′ is not decreased or increased when the value of Wsd / Wdo is smaller than the Wsp ′ / Wdx. The content reproduction apparatus described in 1.
A display which is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image corresponding to the supplied image signal;
A pair of speakers that are attached to both sides of the display so that the distance from the display is fixed, to which an audio signal is supplied and that outputs an audio corresponding to the supplied audio signal;
Distance specifying means for specifying a distance from a viewer to the display or the pair of speakers;
Generating an image signal for prompting the viewer to move in a direction to reduce a difference between the specified distance and a first predetermined distance determined according to a width of the image, and the generated image Image signal generating means for supplying a signal, and sound for generating a sound signal for prompting the viewer to move in a direction to reduce the difference from the first predetermined distance and supplying the generated sound signal A content reproduction apparatus comprising: at least one of signal generation means.
By processing the audio signal, the distance between the speakers between the pair of speakers can be artificially increased or decreased on hearing by the viewer, and the signal-processed audio signals are supplied to the pair of speakers. Audio signal processing means;
Control means for controlling the audio signal processing means so as to approximate the distance between the speakers to a second predetermined distance determined according to the distance from the specified viewer to the display. The content playback apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the content playback apparatus is characterized in that:
A display which is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image according to the supplied image signal, and is attached to both sides of the display in a form in which a distance from the display is fixed, and an audio signal is supplied and the supply A content reproduction method in a content reproduction apparatus comprising a pair of speakers that perform audio output in accordance with an audio signal,
A distance identifying step for identifying a distance from the viewer to the display;
By processing the audio signal, the distance between the speakers between the pair of speakers can be artificially increased or decreased on hearing by the viewer, and the signal-processed audio signals are supplied to the pair of speakers. An audio signal processing step;
The horizontal width of the image displayed on the display is Wsd, the distance from the ideal viewing position recommended for the horizontal width Wsd to the display is Wdo, the specified distance is Wdx, and the distance between the speakers is Wsp ′. A control step of controlling the audio signal processing means so as to increase or decrease the inter-speaker distance Wsp 'on the side where the value of Wsp' / Wdx approaches the value of Wsd / Wdo. Content playback method.
A display which is supplied with an image signal and outputs an image according to the supplied image signal, and is attached to both sides of the display in a form in which a distance from the display is fixed, and an audio signal is supplied and the supply A content reproduction method in a content reproduction apparatus comprising a pair of speakers that perform audio output in accordance with an audio signal,
A distance specifying step of specifying a distance from a viewer to the display or the pair of speakers;
Generating an image signal for prompting the viewer to move in a direction to reduce a difference between the specified distance and a first predetermined distance determined according to a width of the image, and the generated image An image signal generating step for supplying a signal, and an audio signal for generating an audio signal for prompting the viewer to move in a direction to reduce the difference from the first predetermined distance, and supplying the generated audio signal A content reproduction method comprising: at least one of signal generation steps.