JP2006311433A - Noise reduction instrument, handsfree instrument and noise reduction method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide "a noise reduction instrument, a handsfree instrument and a noise reduction method" with which quality of communication voice is assured by suppressing surrounding noise. <P>SOLUTION: The surrounding noise is easily reduced without troubling a driver or processing the communication voice by providing the noise reduction instrument with a microphone part 3 which inputs voice in a vehicle, a communication voice analysis part 1a which analyzes the voice inputted by the microphone part 3 and a handsfree control part 7 which controls both or either of a noise generation source equipment control part 5 which controls equipment to be a generation source of the noise, which is loaded in the vehicle or a noise shielding equipment control part 6 which controls equipment which shields noise from the outside of the vehicle and constituting the noise reduction instrument so that the generation source of the noise may be automatically removed or the noise may be shielded when the quality of voice is lowered. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a noise reduction device, a hands-free device, and a noise reduction method, and more particularly to a noise reduction device, a hands-free device, and a noise reduction method that reduce ambient noise when a telephone is used in a vehicle.

  In general, when a driver uses a mobile phone to make a call in a traveling vehicle, driving with the mobile phone in his / her hand is prohibited because it is dangerous. For this reason, using a hands-free function such as a navigation device or audio device installed in the vehicle, or using a dedicated hands-free device, etc., a call can be made even if the driver does not hold the mobile phone. I was able to do it. Specifically, a mobile phone is connected to a hands-free device or the like, and a call is performed using a microphone and a speaker mounted on the hands-free device.

  By the way, in the vehicle, road noise generated between the tire and the road by traveling of the vehicle, wind noise generated by opening the window of the vehicle during traveling, engine noise generated by traveling of the vehicle, and cooling / heating are alleviated. It is a noisy environment such as the sound of an air conditioner used for the purpose. As a result, the driver cannot grasp whether his / her voice is accurately delivered to the other party and whether the voice reaching the other party is noisy, which causes anxiety. It was. Further, even when there is a lot of ambient noise and the call quality is poor, there is a problem that the driver cannot grasp that the call quality is bad when there is no indication from the call partner.

  Some hands-free devices have a noise reduction function in order to suppress noise. However, such a noise reduction function can reduce noise by signal processing, but it does not reduce noise by removing the noise source or blocking the noise, so the quality of the call voice is reduced. There is a problem that it is deteriorated, complicated signal processing is required, or noise exceeding a certain level cannot be removed.

Also, in the wireless telephone device, when the slave unit goes off-hook, the noise of the silent audio signal transmitted from the slave unit to the master unit is established by wireless connection between the slave unit and the master unit. A technique is known in which a level is measured by a parent device, and a determination result obtained by comparing a noise level with a predetermined threshold is notified to a child device as noise level data (for example, Patent Document 1).
JP 2001-223772 A

  However, in the wireless telephone device described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to make the caller recognize the noise level in the voice that he / she is talking about, but to reduce the noise and specify the source of the noise. There was a problem that we couldn't. In addition, there is a problem that it is impossible for the driver to grasp whether his / her voice can not reach the other party accurately, or whether there is a lot of surrounding noise, at what level of noise. In addition, there has been a problem that the driver cannot be made aware of how much noise level the surrounding noise becomes and the call quality deteriorates without indication from the call partner.

There is also known a technique for changing the color of an image displayed on a display unit in response to the type of notification sound such as a warning sound generated when an erroneous input is made to a telephone or a ringtone of a telephone (for example, Patent Documents). 2).
JP 2001-237922 A

  However, in the telephone set described in Patent Document 2, although the color of the image displayed on the display unit can be varied according to the type of the notification sound, it is possible to reduce noise or specify the source of noise. There was a problem that I could not. In addition, there is a problem that it is impossible for the driver to grasp whether his / her voice is accurately delivered to the other party and whether there is a lot of noise in the voice delivered to the other party. In addition, there is a problem that it is impossible for the driver to grasp whether there is a lot of noise and the call quality is poor without indication from the call partner.

  The present invention has been made to solve such a problem, and an object thereof is to suppress ambient noise and ensure the quality of a call voice.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, in the present invention, the sound quality of the sound in the vehicle input to the microphone unit is analyzed, and according to the analysis result, a device serving as a noise generation source mounted in the vehicle and Both or one of the devices that block noise from outside the vehicle is controlled. According to another aspect of the present invention, the sound in the vehicle input to the microphone unit is analyzed to identify the sound quality and noise source, and the identified noise source is presented. Yes.

  According to the present invention configured as described above, when there is a lot of ambient noise, the voice quality is degraded by the noise input from the microphone unit together with the speaker voice, and this is analyzed by the voice analysis unit. The device is automatically controlled according to the analysis result, and the noise source is removed or the noise is cut off. Accordingly, ambient noise can be easily reduced without bothering the driver's hand or processing the call voice. Therefore, the user can make a call with good quality.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, when there is a lot of ambient noise, the voice quality is degraded by noise input from the microphone unit together with the speaker voice, and this is analyzed by the voice analysis unit. In addition, a noise source is specified by voice analysis. Then, the identified noise generation source is presented in accordance with the voice analysis result. This makes it possible for the driver to know whether or not his / her voice has reached the other party accurately and whether the voice reaching the other party has a lot of noise without any indication from the other party. Therefore, the driver can make a good quality call by removing the noise source or blocking the noise source to reduce the ambient noise.

(First embodiment)
DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, a first embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a noise reduction device according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a first telephone (corresponding to a communication terminal in claims), and a public telephone network between a second telephone 2 (corresponding to a telephone in claims) to be described later. To communicate via. This first telephone 1 is possessed by a communication partner who is outside the vehicle.

  The first telephone 1 includes a call voice analysis unit 1a as its functional configuration. The call voice analysis unit 1 a analyzes a call voice transmitted from the second telephone 2 when making a call with the second telephone 2. Further, the first telephone 1 transmits the analysis result by the call voice analysis unit 1a to the second telephone 2 as the voice analysis result. Here, the call voice analysis unit 1a analyzes, for example, the S / N (Signal / Noise) ratio of the call voice. Then, the value of the S / N ratio is transmitted to the second telephone 2 as a voice analysis result. Note that the S / N ratio of the call voice can be measured by a known technique.

  Reference numeral 10 denotes a hands-free device, which includes a microphone unit 3, a speaker unit 4, a noise generation source device control unit 5, a noise blocking device control unit 6, and a hands-free control unit 7. This hands-free device 10 is mounted in a vehicle. In addition, the second telephone 2 is connected to the hands-free device 10.

  The second telephone 2 communicates with the first telephone 1 in voice communication via the public telephone network. That is, the second telephone 2 receives the call voice input from the microphone unit 3 from the handsfree control unit 7 and transmits it to the first telephone 1. Further, the second telephone 2 receives the call voice transmitted from the first telephone 1 and outputs it to the hands-free control unit 7. Further, the second telephone 2 receives the voice analysis result transmitted from the first telephone 1 and outputs it to the hands-free control unit 7.

  The microphone unit 3 inputs the sound in the vehicle (such as a sound emitted by the driver and noise in the vehicle). The microphone unit 3 outputs the input voice to the handsfree control unit 7 as a call voice. The speaker unit 4 inputs the call voice received by the second telephone 2 from the first telephone 1 via the hands-free control unit 7. Then, the input call voice is output into the vehicle. In addition, although the speaker part 4 is shown here as a general structure of the hands-free apparatus 10, it is not an essential structure for the present invention.

  The noise generation source device control unit 5 controls a device that is a noise generation source mounted in the vehicle. Here, examples of devices that generate noise during a call include an air conditioner, an audio device, a navigation device that provides voice guidance, and an engine in a hybrid vehicle. Here, the hybrid vehicle is a vehicle in which a gasoline engine and an electric motor are used in combination. When the noise source device controller 5 controls the air conditioner, it adjusts the air volume of the air conditioner, switches the outlet, switches the direction of the outlet, stops the operation of the air conditioner, and the like. When the noise source device controller 5 controls the audio device, the volume of the audio device is reduced, muted (mute only for a specific speaker may be used), or the power is turned off. When the noise source device controller 5 controls the navigation device, the volume of voice guidance is reduced or muted. When the noise source device control unit 5 controls the engine in the hybrid vehicle, the vehicle travels preferentially using an electric motor that is less likely to generate noise than a gasoline engine.

  The noise blocking device control unit 6 controls a device that blocks noise from outside the vehicle. Here, the noise outside the vehicle includes road noise generated between the tire and the road when the vehicle travels, and wind noise generated when the vehicle window is opened during traveling. Examples of devices that block noise from outside the vehicle include an electric window (so-called power window) attached to the door of the vehicle and an electric sunroof attached to the ceiling of the vehicle. When the noise cutoff device control unit 6 controls the power window, the window is closed by moving the power window up and down.

  The hands-free control unit 7 is connected to the second telephone set 2, the microphone unit 3, the speaker unit 4, the noise generation source device control unit 5, and the noise cutoff device control unit 6, and controls each of these units. In addition, the hands-free control unit 7 inputs the voice analysis result received by the second telephone 2, and controls both the noise source device control unit 5 and the noise cutoff device control unit 6 according to the analysis result. To do. The hands-free control unit 7, the noise source device control unit 5, and the noise cutoff device control unit 6 together correspond to, for example, the control unit of claim 1.

  Specifically, it is determined whether or not the S / N ratio input as the voice analysis result is equal to or less than a predetermined value. If the S / N ratio is equal to or less than the predetermined value, the hands-free control unit 7 starts noise from a state where noise is generated. The noise generation source device control unit 5 is controlled so as not to generate noise. In response to the control command from the hands-free control unit 7, the noise source device control unit 5 weakens the air volume of the air conditioner to a predetermined level or less. The air conditioner may be stopped. Further, the noise source device controller 5 lowers the volume of the audio device to a predetermined level or less. Also, the sound may be muted or the power may be turned off. Further, the noise source device controller 5 lowers the volume of the voice guidance of the navigation device to a predetermined level or less. Further, the voice guidance may be muted. The noise source device controller 5 switches the gasoline engine to the electric motor in the hybrid vehicle.

  Further, when the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the S / N ratio is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the hands-free control unit 7 controls the noise cutoff device control unit 6 so that the noise is blocked from the state where the noise is not blocked. To do. Specifically, the hands-free control unit 7 controls the noise cutoff device control unit 6 to close the power window.

  Here, the hands-free control unit 7 determines whether or not a device that is a noise generation source mounted in the vehicle is generating noise, and a device that blocks noise from outside the vehicle blocks noise. You may make it check whether it exists. If the device that is the source of noise is not already generating noise, or if the device that blocks noise is already blocking noise, the S / N ratio is predetermined. Even if the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the value is equal to or less than the value, the hands-free control unit 7 does not control the device in such a state.

  In addition, whether or not the device that is the source of noise is generating noise is whether the air conditioner is moving, whether the air conditioner is moving, whether the air volume is stronger than a predetermined level, This can be determined by examining whether the volume of the audio device is higher than a predetermined level, whether the navigation device is providing voice guidance, and whether the gasoline engine is being used in the hybrid vehicle. Further, whether or not a device that blocks noise from outside the vehicle blocks noise can be determined by examining whether or not the power window is closed.

  Next, the operation of the noise reduction device and the noise reduction method according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the operation of the noise reduction apparatus and the noise reduction method according to the first embodiment.

  In FIG. 2, first, the hands-free control unit 7 checks whether or not the second telephone 2 has started communication with the first telephone 1 (step S1). Here, the communication is started by the transmission from the second telephone 2 to the first telephone 1 or the transmission from the first telephone 1 to the second telephone 2. If the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the second telephone 2 has not yet started communication with the first telephone 1 (NO in step S1), the process of step S1 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the second telephone 2 has started communication with the first telephone 1 (YES in step S1), the hands-free control unit 7 The input voice is output to the second telephone 2 (step S2). The second telephone 2 transmits the voice input from the microphone unit 3 to the first telephone 1 as a call voice (step S3).

  Thus, the call voice is transmitted from the second telephone 2. On the other hand, the first telephone 1 checks whether communication with the second telephone 2 has started (step S4). If the first telephone 1 determines that communication with the second telephone 2 has not yet started (NO in step S4), the process of step S4 is repeated. On the other hand, when first telephone 1 determines that communication with second telephone 2 has started (YES in step S4), first telephone 1 has received a call voice from second telephone 2. Whether or not (step S5). If the first telephone 1 determines that no call voice is received from the second telephone 2 (NO in step S5), the process in step S5 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the first telephone 1 determines that the call voice is received from the second telephone 2 (YES in step S5), the call voice analysis unit 1a provided in the first telephone 1 The received call voice is analyzed (step S6). Then, the first telephone 1 transmits the voice analysis result (S / N ratio value) obtained by the call voice analysis unit 1a to the second telephone 2 (step S7). Thereafter, the first telephone 1 checks whether or not the communication with the second telephone 2 has been completed (step S8). If the first telephone 1 determines that the communication with the second telephone 2 has not yet ended (NO in step S8), the process of step S8 is repeated. On the other hand, when first telephone 1 determines that communication with second telephone 2 has ended (YES in step S8), the process ends.

  In the hands-free device 10, the hands-free control unit 7 checks whether or not the voice analysis result has been received by the second telephone 2 (step S9). If the hands-free control unit 7 determines that no voice analysis result has been received (NO in step S9), the process in step S9 is repeated. On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the voice analysis result has been received (YES in step S9), the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the second telephone 2 is based on the received voice analysis result. It is checked whether or not the call voice transmitted to the first telephone 1 contains a lot of noise (whether the S / N ratio is not more than a predetermined value) (step S10). If the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the S / N ratio is not less than the predetermined value (NO in step S10), the process proceeds to step S12.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the S / N ratio is equal to or less than the predetermined value (YES in step S10), the hands-free control unit 7 includes the noise source control unit 5 and the noise cutoff device. Both of the control units 6 are controlled (step S11). When controlling the noise source control unit 5, the hands-free control unit 7 controls the noise source control unit 5 so as to change from a state where noise is generated to a state where noise is not generated. On the other hand, when controlling the noise cutoff device control unit 6, the hands-free control unit 7 controls the noise cutoff device control unit 6 so that the noise is blocked from the state where the noise is not blocked.

  Then, the hands-free control unit 7 checks whether or not the second telephone 2 has finished communication with the first telephone 1 (step S12). When the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the second telephone 2 has not finished communication (NO in step S12), the processing in step S12 is repeated. On the other hand, if the hands-free control unit 7 determines that the second telephone 2 has finished communication (YES in step S12), the process is terminated. Here, while the second telephone 2 and the first telephone 1 are communicating, it is possible to make a call.

  As described above in detail, according to the first embodiment, the voice input from the microphone unit 3 in the vehicle is analyzed by the call voice analysis unit 1a of the first telephone 1, so that the second telephone 2 determines whether the call voice transmitted from 2 has a lot of noise. When it is determined that there is a lot of noise, the hands-free control unit 7 controls the noise source control unit 5 so as to change from a state where noise is generated to a state where noise is not generated, or shuts off the noise. The noise cut-off device control unit 6 is controlled so that the noise is cut off from the non-run state. As a result, noise can be easily reduced without the driver (user of the second telephone 2) directly operating keys or switches or processing the call voice. Therefore, the driver can make a good quality call while driving safely.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the call voice analysis unit 1a of the first telephone 1 automatically determines whether or not the call voice transmitted from the second telephone 2 is noisy. If it is determined that there is a lot of noise, the hands-free control unit 7 automatically controls the device to reduce ambient noise. As a result, the driver does not need to be particularly aware of whether there is a lot of noise, and does not feel anxious about whether or not his / her voice reaches the other party.

(Second Embodiment)
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the noise reduction device according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 3, the same components as those of the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 11 denotes a first telephone (corresponding to a communication terminal in claims), which communicates with a second telephone 12 described later via a public telephone network. This first telephone 11 is possessed by a call partner outside the vehicle. Reference numeral 20 denotes a hands-free device, which includes a microphone unit 3, a speaker unit 4, a noise source device control unit 5, a noise cutoff device control unit 6, a call voice analysis unit 13, and a hands-free control unit 14. Yes. This hands-free device 20 is disposed in the vehicle.

  The second telephone set 12 communicates with the first telephone set 11 via the public telephone network. That is, the second telephone 12 receives the call voice input from the microphone unit 3 from the handsfree control unit 14 and transmits it to the first telephone 11. Further, the second telephone 12 receives the call voice transmitted from the first telephone 11 and outputs it to the hands-free control unit 14.

  The call voice analysis unit 13 analyzes the call voice input from the microphone unit 3. Further, the call voice analysis unit 13 outputs the voice analysis result of the call voice to the hands-free control unit 14. Here, the call voice analysis unit 13 analyzes the S / N ratio of the call voice. Then, the value of the S / N ratio is output to the hands-free control unit 14 as a voice analysis result.

  The hands-free control unit 14 is connected to the second telephone set 12, the microphone unit 3, the speaker unit 4, the noise source device control unit 5, the noise cutoff device control unit 6, and the call voice analysis unit 13. To control. In addition, the hands-free control unit 14 receives the voice analysis result output from the call voice analysis unit 13, and controls both the noise source device control unit 5 and the noise cutoff device control unit 6 according to the voice analysis result. Control. The hands-free control unit 14, the noise source device control unit 5, and the noise cutoff device control unit 6 together correspond to, for example, the control unit of claim 1.

  Specifically, it is determined whether or not the S / N ratio input as the voice analysis result is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value. If the S / N ratio is equal to or smaller than the predetermined value, the hands-free control unit 14 starts noise from a state where noise is generated. The noise generation source device control unit 5 is controlled so as not to generate noise. The noise source device controller 5 receives the control command from the hands-free controller 14 and weakens the air volume of the air conditioner to a predetermined level or less. The air conditioner may be stopped. Further, the noise source device controller 5 lowers the volume of the audio device to a predetermined level or less. Also, the sound may be muted or the power may be turned off. Further, the noise source device controller 5 lowers the volume of the voice guidance of the navigation device to a predetermined level or less. Further, the voice guidance may be muted. The noise source device controller 5 switches the gasoline engine to the electric motor in the hybrid vehicle.

  Further, when the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the S / N ratio is equal to or less than a predetermined value, the hands-free control unit 14 controls the noise cutoff device control unit 6 so that the noise is blocked from the state where the noise is not blocked. To do. Specifically, the hands-free control unit 14 controls the noise cutoff device control unit 6 to close the power window.

  Next, the operation of the noise reduction apparatus and the noise reduction method according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the noise reduction apparatus and the noise reduction method according to the second embodiment.

  In FIG. 4, first, the hands-free control unit 14 checks whether or not the second telephone 12 has started communication with the first telephone 11 (step S21). Here, communication is started by transmission from the second telephone 12 to the first telephone 11 or transmission from the first telephone 11 to the second telephone 12. When the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the second telephone 12 has not yet started communication with the first telephone 11 (NO in step S21), the process of step S21 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the second telephone set 12 has started communication with the first telephone set 11 (YES in step S21), the voice input from the microphone unit 3 is used as the call voice. Analysis is performed by the analysis unit 17 (step S22). Further, the call voice analysis unit 17 outputs a voice analysis result (S / N ratio value) obtained by the analysis to the hands-free control unit 14. Based on the voice analysis result, the hands-free control unit 14 checks whether or not the voice input to the microphone unit 3 contains a lot of noise (whether the S / N ratio is a predetermined value or less) (step S23). ). If the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the S / N ratio is not less than the predetermined value (NO in step S23), the process proceeds to step S25.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the S / N ratio is equal to or less than the predetermined value (YES in step S23), the hands-free control unit 14 determines whether the noise source device control unit 5 and the noise blocker Both of the device control units 6 are controlled (step S24). When controlling the noise source device control unit 5, the hands-free control unit 14 controls the noise source device control unit 5 so as to change from a state where noise is generated to a state where noise is not generated. On the other hand, when controlling the noise cutoff device control unit 6, the hands-free control unit 14 controls the noise cutoff device control unit 6 so that the noise is blocked from the state where the noise is not blocked.

  Then, the hands-free control unit 14 checks whether or not the second telephone 12 has ended communication with the first telephone 11 (step S25). If the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the second telephone 12 has not yet ended communication (NO in step S25), the process of step S25 is repeated. On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 14 determines that the second telephone 12 has ended communication (YES in step S25), the process ends. Here, while the second telephone 12 and the first telephone 11 are communicating, it is possible to make a call.

  As described above in detail, according to the second embodiment, a voice transmitted from the second telephone 12 is analyzed by analyzing the voice input from the microphone unit 3 in the vehicle by the call voice analysis unit 13. Determine if the voice is noisy. When it is determined that there is a lot of noise, the hands-free control unit 14 controls the noise source device control unit 5 so that the noise is not generated and the noise is not generated. The noise cut-off device control unit 6 is controlled so that the noise is cut off from the non-run state. As a result, the noise can be easily reduced without the driver (user of the second telephone 12) directly operating keys or switches or processing the call voice. Therefore, the driver can make a good quality call while driving safely.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, the voice analysis unit 13 in the vehicle automatically determines whether or not the call voice transmitted from the second telephone 2 is noisy. If it is determined that there is a lot of noise, the hands-free control unit 14 automatically controls the device to reduce ambient noise. As a result, the driver does not need to be particularly aware of whether there is a lot of noise, and does not feel anxious about whether or not his / her voice reaches the other party.

  In the present embodiment, since the call voice analysis unit 13 installed in the hands-free device 20 analyzes the call voice, even when the first telephone 11 outside the vehicle is not equipped with a voice analysis device. Noise can be reduced.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a third embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the noise reduction device according to the third embodiment. In FIG. 5, the same components as those in the first embodiment shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 5, reference numeral 30 denotes a hands-free device, which includes a microphone unit 3, a speaker unit 4, a hands-free control unit 15, and a display unit 16. This hands-free device 30 is disposed in the vehicle.

  The hands-free control unit 15 is connected to the second telephone set 2, the microphone unit 3, the speaker unit 4, and the display unit 16, and controls these units. The hands-free control unit 15 has a table that identifies the cause of noise according to the value of the S / N ratio. The hands-free control unit 15 determines whether or not the S / N ratio input as the voice analysis result is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and when it is equal to or less than the predetermined value, refers to the table according to the value of the S / N ratio. To identify the cause of the noise. Then, control is performed so that the cause of the identified noise is displayed on the display unit 16. In addition, this hands-free control part 15 corresponds to the control part of Claim 4, for example.

  The display unit 16 displays the cause of noise specified by the hands-free control unit 15. In addition, display that prompts the operation of the device that causes noise (operation to reduce noise), or displays that prompt the operation of the device that blocks the cause of noise (operation to reduce noise) You may make it do. Similarly, a sound that prompts an operation of a device that causes noise is output from the speaker unit 4, and a sound that prompts an operation of a device that blocks the cause of noise is output from the speaker unit 4. May be. Here, the display part 16 and the speaker part 4 correspond to the presentation part of a claim.

  Next, the operation of the noise reduction apparatus and the noise reduction method according to the third embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the noise reduction apparatus and the noise reduction method according to the third embodiment.

  In FIG. 6, first, the hands-free control unit 15 checks whether or not the second telephone 2 has started communication with the first telephone 1 (step S31). Here, the communication is started by the transmission from the second telephone 2 to the first telephone 1 or the transmission from the first telephone 1 to the second telephone 2. If the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the second telephone 2 has not yet started communication with the first telephone 1 (NO in step S31), the processing in step S31 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the second telephone 2 has started communication with the first telephone 1 (YES in step S31), the hands-free control unit 15 The input voice is output to the second telephone 2 (step S32). The second telephone 2 transmits the voice input from the microphone unit 3 to the first telephone 1 as a call voice (step S33).

  Thus, the call voice is transmitted from the second telephone 2. On the other hand, the first telephone 1 checks whether communication with the second telephone 2 has started (step S34). If the first telephone 1 determines that communication with the second telephone 2 has not yet started (NO in step S34), the process of step S34 is repeated. On the other hand, when first telephone 1 determines that communication with second telephone 2 has started (YES in step S34), first telephone 1 has received a call voice from second telephone 2. Whether or not (step S35). When the first telephone 1 determines that no call voice is received from the second telephone 2 (NO in step S35), the process in step S35 is repeated.

  On the other hand, when the first telephone 1 determines that the call voice is received from the second telephone 2 (YES in step S35), the call voice analysis unit 1a provided in the first telephone 1 The received call voice is analyzed (step S36). Then, the first telephone 1 transmits the voice analysis result (S / N ratio value) obtained by the call voice analysis unit 1a to the second telephone 2 (step S37). Thereafter, the first telephone 1 checks whether or not the communication with the second telephone 2 has been completed (step S38). If the first telephone 1 determines that the communication with the second telephone 2 has not yet ended (NO in step S38), the process of step S38 is repeated. On the other hand, when first telephone 1 determines that communication with second telephone 2 has ended (YES in step S38), the process ends.

  In the hands-free device 30, the hands-free control unit 15 checks whether or not the voice analysis result has been received by the second telephone 2 (step S39). If the hands-free control unit 15 determines that no voice analysis result has been received (NO in step S39), the process of step S39 is repeated. On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the voice analysis result has been received (YES in step S39), the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the second telephone 2 is based on the received voice analysis result. It is checked whether or not the call voice transmitted to the first telephone 1 contains a lot of noise (whether the S / N ratio is not more than a predetermined value) (step S40). If the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the S / N ratio is not less than the predetermined value (NO in step S40), the process proceeds to step S42.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the S / N ratio is equal to or less than the predetermined value (YES in step S40), the hands-free control unit 15 determines the value of the S / N ratio of the voice analysis result. Accordingly, the cause of noise (a device that generates noise in the vehicle or a device that blocks noise outside the vehicle) is identified with reference to the table and presented on the display unit 16 (step S41).

  Then, the hands-free control unit 15 checks whether or not the second telephone 2 has ended communication with the first telephone 1 (step S42). If the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the second telephone 2 has not finished communication (NO in step S42), the process of step S42 is repeated. On the other hand, when the hands-free control unit 15 determines that the second telephone 2 has finished communication (YES in step S42), the process is terminated. Here, while the second telephone 2 and the first telephone 1 are communicating, it is possible to make a call.

  As described above in detail, according to the third embodiment, the voice input from the microphone unit 3 in the vehicle is analyzed by the call voice analysis unit 1a of the first telephone 1, so that the second telephone The hands-free control unit 15 determines whether or not there is a lot of noise in the call voice transmitted from 2. When it is determined that there is a lot of noise, the hands-free control unit 15 identifies and presents a device that generates noise, a device that blocks noise, and the like according to the analysis result of the call voice. This makes it possible for the driver to know whether or not his / her voice has reached the other party accurately and whether the voice reaching the other party has a lot of noise without any indication from the other party. Furthermore, if there is a lot of noise, the driver can be notified of the noise source. Therefore, the driver can perform a call with good quality by reducing ambient noise by performing an operation for removing the source of noise and an operation for blocking the noise on an appropriate device.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the call voice is analyzed and it is determined that there is a lot of noise when the S / N ratio is equal to or less than a predetermined value. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it may be determined whether or not there is a lot of noise by analyzing the waveform of the call voice. Here, the waveform of the call voice can be analyzed by a known technique. Any other method that can analyze the quality of voice can be applied.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, when the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that there is a lot of noise, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, only one of the noise source device controller 5 and the noise cutoff device controller 6 may be controlled. Moreover, you may make it control only a specific apparatus among the several apparatuses controlled by the noise generation source apparatus control part 5. FIG.

  As a technique for this, as in the third embodiment, there is a table for identifying the cause of noise corresponding to the value of the S / N ratio, and which device is controlled according to the value of the S / N ratio. It may be determined. When the cause of noise is identified in this manner, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 remove the identified cause of noise or block the cause of noise so that the noise source device control unit 5 and the noise are controlled. Since it is sufficient to control the shut-off device control unit 6, it is not necessary to perform useless control.

  In the third embodiment, the noise generation source is specified by referring to the table based on the value of the S / N ratio. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cause of the noise may be identified by pattern recognition of a noise waveform obtained by analyzing the call voice.

  In the first embodiment and the second embodiment described above, even when the communication between the second telephones 2 and 12 is completed, the device that generates noise and the device that blocks noise remain as they are. There is, but is not limited to this. For example, when the second telephones 2 and 12 end the communication, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 control the noise source device control unit 5 to set the device that is the source of noise to the state before the call. You may return, or you may return the apparatus which interrupts noise by controlling the noise interruption apparatus control part 6 to the state before a telephone call. Specifically, a storage device is provided for storing information indicating a state before a call of a device that generates noise or a device that blocks noise, and the hands-free control units 7 and 14 store the information in the storage device after the call is finished. Read out the information and control the noise source device control unit 5 to return the device that is the source of noise to the state before the call, or control the noise cutoff device control unit 6 to call the device that blocks noise Return to the previous state. This eliminates the need for the driver to return to the original state after the call is completed, thereby reducing the burden on the driver and ensuring safety.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the modified example of the noise reduction apparatus according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment or the noise reduction method. In FIG. 7, operations similar to those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 2 are performed until the processing in step S9 in the first embodiment. Further, operations similar to those in the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 are performed until the processing in step S22 in the second embodiment. Then, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine whether or not the call voice transmitted from the second telephones 2 and 12 to the first telephones 1 and 11 contains a lot of noise based on the voice analysis result ( It is checked whether or not the S / N ratio is equal to or less than a predetermined value (step S51). When the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that the S / N ratio is not less than the predetermined value (NO in step S51), the hands-free control units 7 and 14 It is checked whether or not the communication with the first telephone 1 and 11 has been completed (step S52). When the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that the second telephones 2 and 12 have not ended communication (NO in step S52), the processing in step S52 is repeated. On the other hand, when the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that the second telephones 2 and 12 have ended communication (YES in step S52), the process ends.

  On the other hand, when the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that the S / N ratio is equal to or less than the predetermined value (YES in step S51), the hands-free control units 7 and 14 And the information showing the state of the noise cutoff equipment control part 6 is memorize | stored in the memory | storage device which is not shown in figure, and controls both the noise generation source control part 5 and the noise cutoff equipment control part 6 (step S53). When controlling the noise source control unit 5, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 control the noise source control unit 5 so as to change from a state where noise is generated to a state where noise is not generated. On the other hand, when controlling the noise cutoff device control unit 6, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 control the noise cutoff device control unit 6 so that the noise is blocked from the state where the noise is not blocked.

  Then, the hands-free control units 7 and 14 check whether or not the second telephones 2 and 12 have ended communication with the first telephones 1 and 11 (step S54). If the hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that the second telephones 2 and 12 have not yet finished communication (NO in step S54), the processing in step S54 is repeated. On the other hand, when hands-free control units 7 and 14 determine that second telephones 2 and 12 have ended communication (YES in step S54), hands-free control units 7 and 14 receive noise from the storage device. The original states of the source control unit 5 and the noise cutoff device control unit 6 are read, and both the noise source control unit 5 and the noise cutoff device control unit 6 are returned to the original state (step S55).

  In the first embodiment described above, the call voice analysis unit 1a of the first telephone 1 analyzes the call voice. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a dedicated communication terminal that analyzes call voice may be used. Specifically, the second telephone 2 communicates with a dedicated communication terminal that analyzes call voice before communicating with the first telephone 1. The dedicated communication terminal receives call voice from the second telephone 2 and analyzes the call voice. Then, the voice analysis result is transmitted to the second telephone 2. The second telephone 2 receives the voice analysis result. Then, the hands-free control unit 7 controls a device that is a source of noise by the noise source device control unit 5 or controls a device that blocks noise by the noise block device control unit 6 according to the voice analysis result. To do. Thereafter, the second telephone 2 communicates with the first telephone 1. This eliminates the need for the first telephone 1 to have the call voice analysis unit 1a, and makes a voice call that ensures call quality when communication between the second telephone 2 and the first telephone 1 is started. Can do.

  In the second embodiment described above, the call voice is analyzed when the second telephone 12 starts communication with the first telephone 11, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, call voice analysis may be performed in the hands-free device 20 immediately before the second telephone 12 communicates with the first telephone 11. Thereby, noise can be reduced before communication between the second telephone 12 and the first telephone 11 is started.

  In the third embodiment described above, the call voice analysis unit 1a is provided in the first telephone 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the call voice analysis unit may be provided in the hands-free device 30.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the communication voice is analyzed and noise is reduced when communication between the first telephones 1 and 11 and the second telephones 2 and 12 is started. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the call voice may be analyzed at any time during a call, and the noise may be reduced or the cause of the noise may be presented when the S / N ratio becomes a predetermined value or less.

  In the first to third embodiments described above, the voice is analyzed when the call voice is input. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the call voice may be analyzed only when there is an instruction from the user of the hands-free device 10, 20, or 30.

  In addition, each of the first to third embodiments described above is merely an example of a specific example for carrying out the present invention, and the technical scope of the present invention is limitedly interpreted by these. It must not be done. In other words, the present invention can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit or main features thereof.

  The present invention is useful for a hands-free device used when a telephone is used in a vehicle.

It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the noise reduction apparatus by 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the noise reduction apparatus and noise reduction method by 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the noise reduction apparatus by 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the noise reduction apparatus and noise reduction method by 2nd Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the noise reduction apparatus by 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the noise reduction apparatus and noise reduction method by 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the operation | movement of the modification of the noise reduction apparatus by 1st Embodiment and 2nd Embodiment, and the noise reduction method.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1,11 1st telephone 1a, 13 Call voice analysis part 2,12 2nd telephone 3 Microphone part 4 Speaker part 5 Noise source apparatus control part 6 Noise cutoff apparatus control part 7, 14, 15 Hands free control part 10 , 20, 30 Hands-free device

Claims (10)

A noise reduction device that reduces noise of voice transmitted from a telephone when a telephone in a vehicle communicates with a communication terminal outside the vehicle,
A microphone unit for inputting voice in the vehicle;
A voice analysis unit for analyzing the sound quality of the voice input to the microphone unit;
According to the voice analysis result analyzed by the voice analysis unit, when the noise is higher than a predetermined level, both a device that is a source of noise mounted in the vehicle and a device that blocks noise from outside the vehicle Or a control unit for controlling one of them,
Noise reduction device with The control unit identifies a source of the noise based on the voice analysis result, and controls either or both of a device that is the identified noise source and a device that blocks the identified noise source. The noise reduction device according to claim 1. When the communication between the telephone and the communication terminal is completed, the control unit returns the device that is a source of the noise and / or the device that blocks the noise to a state before the communication. The noise reduction device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that A noise reduction device that reduces noise of voice transmitted from a telephone when a telephone in a vehicle communicates with a communication terminal outside the vehicle,
A microphone unit for inputting voice in the vehicle;
A voice analysis unit for analyzing the sound quality of the voice input to the microphone unit;
A control unit that identifies the noise generation source based on the voice analysis result analyzed by the voice analysis unit, and causes the presentation unit to present the noise generation source;
Noise reduction device with When a telephone in a vehicle communicates with a communication terminal outside the vehicle, a hands-free device that reduces noise in a voice transmitted from the telephone,
A microphone part for inputting sound in the vehicle;
According to the voice analysis result obtained by analyzing the sound quality of the voice input to the microphone unit, when the noise is higher than a predetermined level, a noise source device installed in the vehicle and noise from outside the vehicle are A control unit that controls both or one of the devices to be shut off;
Hands-free device with The control unit controls either or either one of a device that is a source of noise identified by analysis of a voice input to the microphone unit and a device that blocks the identified noise source. The hands-free device according to claim 5. When the communication between the telephone and the communication terminal is completed, the control unit returns the device that is a source of the noise and / or the device that blocks the noise to a state before the communication. The hands-free device according to claim 5, wherein the hands-free device is characterized by the following. When a telephone in a vehicle communicates with a communication terminal outside the vehicle, a hands-free device that reduces noise in a voice transmitted from the telephone,
A microphone unit for inputting voice in the vehicle;
A control unit for identifying a noise generation source based on a voice analysis result obtained by analyzing a sound quality of the voice input to the microphone unit, and causing the presentation unit to present the noise generation source;
Hands-free device with A noise reduction method for reducing noise of voice transmitted from a telephone when a telephone in a vehicle communicates with a communication terminal outside the vehicle,
A first step of analyzing the sound quality of the sound in the vehicle input to the microphone unit;
In response to the analysis result analyzed in the first step, when the noise is higher than a predetermined level, a device that is installed in the vehicle and that blocks noise from outside the vehicle is installed. A second step of controlling both or any one of them by the control unit;
A noise reduction method comprising: A noise reduction method for reducing noise of voice transmitted from a telephone when a telephone in a vehicle communicates with a communication terminal outside the vehicle,
A first step of analyzing the sound quality of the sound in the vehicle input to the microphone unit;
A second step of identifying a noise source in the control unit based on the analysis result analyzed in the first step;
A noise reduction method comprising: a third step of presenting a noise generation source identified in the second step to a presentation unit.

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