JP5660966B2 - Bookmark output device, bookmark output program, bookmark output method, and electronic book browsing device - Google Patents

Description

  BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a bookmark output device, a bookmark output program, a bookmark output method, and an electronic book browsing device, and more particularly, for example, a bookmark output device, a bookmark output program, a bookmark output method, and an electronic device that output a bookmark set in an electronic book. The present invention relates to a book browsing device.

An example of this kind of bookmark output device is disclosed in Patent Document 1. In the electronic book browsing apparatus of Patent Document 1, when bookmark information indicating a predetermined position of an electronic book is set, attribute information (bookmark attribute) of bookmark information is set based on the reading information. As bookmark attributes, reading status grasping attributes for grasping how far the corresponding electronic book has been read, word attributes for examining the meaning of unknown words in sentences, table of contents and person table, etc. referenced multiple times in the same book This is classified into a permanent reference attribute for reference, a comparison attribute used when comparing figures and photographs in catalogs and reference books, and other reference attributes as marks for reference later.
JP 2008-9606 [G06F 17/30]

  However, in the electronic book browsing apparatus of Patent Document 1, since bookmarks having various attributes can be registered, it is troublesome for the user to visually confirm each bookmark when there are many bookmarks. It will take a lot of effort.

  Therefore, a main object of the present invention is to provide a novel bookmark output device, bookmark output program, bookmark output method, and electronic book browsing device.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a bookmark output device, a bookmark output program, a bookmark output method, and an electronic book browsing device that can easily search for a desired bookmark.

  The present invention employs the following configuration in order to solve the above problems. The reference numerals in parentheses, supplementary explanations, and the like indicate correspondence relationships with embodiments described later to help understanding of the present invention, and do not limit the present invention in any way.

  1st invention is the bookmark output device which outputs the bookmark of an electronic book by voice, Comprising: The memory | storage part which memorize | stores the character string information of the bookmark set to the electronic book, The extraction part which extracts the linguistic information of an electronic book And an engine selection unit that selects a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the extraction unit, and a bookmark character string stored in the storage unit by operating the speech conversion engine selected by the engine selection unit It is a bookmark output device provided with the output part which outputs information with a voice.

  In the first invention, the bookmark output device (10) outputs a bookmark of an electronic book by voice. A memory | storage part (24) memorize | stores the character string information of the bookmark set to the electronic book. The extraction unit (12, S53, S57, S67, S69) extracts language information of the electronic book. The engine selection unit (12, S71) selects a speech conversion engine corresponding to the language information extracted by the extraction unit. The output unit (12, S79) outputs the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit by voice by operating the voice conversion engine selected by the engine selection unit. At this time, synthesized voice data is used.

  According to the first invention, since the character string information of the bookmark is output by voice, it is possible to search more easily than by searching for a desired bookmark visually.

The second invention is dependent on the first invention, and the language information determining unit that determines whether or not the language information of the electronic book is stored, and the language information of the electronic book is not stored by the language information determining unit. Is determined, the language information selection unit that allows the user to select the language information of the electronic book is further provided, and the extraction unit extracts the language information selected by the language information selection unit.

In the second invention, the language information determination unit (12, S51) determines whether the language information of the electronic book is stored. The language information selection unit (12, S55, S57) causes the user to select the language information of the electronic book when the language information determination unit determines that the language information of the electronic book is not stored. The extraction unit extracts the language information selected by the language information selection unit.

  According to the second invention, when the language information of the electronic book is not stored, the user is made to select the language information. Therefore, using the speech conversion engine corresponding to the language information selected by the user, The character string information of the bookmark can be output by voice.

A third invention is dependent on the second invention, and when the language information of the electronic book is not selected by the language information selection unit, the format determination unit determines whether the format of the electronic book is a predetermined format, and the format When the determination unit determines that the electronic book has a predetermined format, the extraction unit further includes a language information determination unit that determines language information of the electronic book based on a reading engine that can read the predetermined format. The language information determined by the language information determination unit is extracted.

  In the third invention, the format determination unit (12, S59) determines whether or not the format of the electronic book is a predetermined format when the language information selection unit does not select the language information of the electronic book (“NO” in S57). Judging. For example, it is determined whether the format of the electronic book is text. When the format determination unit determines that the electronic book has a predetermined format ("YES" in S59), the language information determination unit (12, S67) is based on a reading engine that can read the predetermined format. Determine the language information of the electronic book. For example, among the reading engines corresponding to a plurality of languages, the language of a reading engine that can read the electronic book is determined as language information of the electronic book.

  According to the third invention, language information can be automatically determined based on an electronic book reading engine.

  A fourth invention is dependent on the third invention, and further includes a conversion unit that converts the electronic book into a predetermined format when the format determination unit determines that the electronic book is not in the predetermined format.

  In the fourth invention, the conversion unit (12, S63) converts the electronic book into a predetermined format when the format determination unit determines that the electronic book is not in the predetermined format (“NO” in S59). . For example, the electronic book is converted into text data by character recognition.

  According to the fourth aspect, since the electronic book is converted into a predetermined format, the language information can be automatically determined even when the electronic book is not in the predetermined format.

  A fifth invention is dependent on any one of the first to fourth inventions, and a mode determining unit that determines whether or not a mode that does not output sound is set, and a mode that does not output sound is set by the mode determining unit. An operation determining unit that determines whether or not to operate the output unit when it is determined that the output unit is operated, and when the operation determining unit determines to operate the output unit, the output unit is By operating the selected voice conversion engine, the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit is output by voice.

  In the fifth invention, the mode determination unit (12, S101) determines whether or not a mode in which no sound is output is set. The operation determining unit (12, S105) determines whether or not to operate the output unit when the mode determining unit determines that a mode in which no sound is output is set (“YES” in S101). For example, the user selects whether to operate the output unit. When the operation determining unit determines that the output unit is to be operated (“YES” in S105), the output unit operates the voice conversion engine selected by the engine selecting unit to store the bookmark stored in the storage unit. The character string information of is output by voice.

  According to the fifth aspect, when a mode in which no sound is output is set, the output unit is operated according to the user's selection, so that an appropriate bookmark can be output by voice.

  A sixth invention is dependent on any one of the first to fifth inventions, and when there is no speech conversion engine corresponding to the language information extracted by the communication unit and the extraction unit, the external computer stores the storage unit. A conversion request transmitting unit that transmits a voice conversion request for converting stored character string information of bookmarks into voice data, and a voice data receiving unit that receives voice data transmitted from an external computer, and an output unit, The sound corresponding to the sound data received by the sound data receiving unit is output.

  In the sixth invention, the bookmark output device further includes a communication unit (30). Therefore, it is communicably connected to an external (other) computer. When there is no voice conversion engine corresponding to the language information extracted by the extraction unit (“NO” in S73), the conversion request transmission unit (12, S121) stores the bookmark character stored in the storage unit in the external computer. A voice conversion request for converting the column information into voice data is transmitted. The audio data receiving unit (12, S123) receives audio data transmitted from an external computer. Therefore, the output unit outputs sound corresponding to the sound data received by the sound data receiving unit.

  According to the sixth invention, when there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, the voice of the bookmark corresponding to the voice data converted by the external computer is output. For example, even if the voice conversion engine is not provided , You can read the bookmarks aloud.

A seventh invention is dependent on any one of the first to fifth inventions, and when there is no voice conversion engine corresponding to the language information extracted by the communication unit and the extraction unit, the voice conversion is performed on an external computer. a delivery request transmitting unit that transmits a delivery request of the engine, further comprising a speech engine receiving unit that receives a speech engine delivered from an external computer, the output unit, voice received by the speech engine receiving unit By operating the conversion engine, the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit is output by voice.

In the seventh invention, the bookmark output device further includes a communication unit (30). Therefore, it is communicably connected to an external (other) computer. When there is no speech conversion engine corresponding to the language information extracted by the extraction unit (“NO” in S73), the distribution request transmission unit (12, S131) transmits a distribution request for the speech conversion engine to an external computer. To do. The voice conversion engine reception unit (12, S133) receives the voice conversion engine distributed from an external computer. Accordingly, the output unit, by operating the voice conversion engine that is received by the speech engine receiving unit, and outputs the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit by voice.

  According to the seventh invention, when there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, the corresponding voice conversion engine is distributed and operated from an external computer, so that the bookmark can be read out by voice.

  An eighth invention is a bookmark output program for a computer that includes a storage unit that stores character string information of a bookmark set in an electronic book and outputs the bookmark of the electronic book by voice. An extraction step for extracting language information, an engine selection step for selecting a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the extraction step, and a voice conversion engine selected by the engine selection step by operating the storage unit. A bookmark output program for executing an output step of outputting stored character string information of a bookmark by voice.

  A ninth invention is a bookmark output method for a computer, comprising a storage unit for storing character string information of a bookmark set in an electronic book, and outputting the bookmark of the electronic book by voice, the computer comprising: (a) Extract language information of the electronic book, (b) select a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted in step (a), and (c) operate the speech conversion engine selected in step (b). This is a bookmark output method for outputting the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit by voice.

  A tenth invention is an electronic book browsing device for browsing an electronic book, the storage unit storing character string information of a bookmark set in the electronic book, the extraction unit extracting the language information of the electronic book, and the extraction By operating the engine selection unit that selects the speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the unit and the speech conversion engine selected by the engine selection unit, the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit is It is an electronic book browsing apparatus provided with the output part which outputs by.

  In the eighth to tenth inventions, as in the first invention, a desired bookmark can be easily searched.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to easily search for a desired bookmark.

  The above object, other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an electronic book browsing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a browsing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a second example of the browsing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a third example of the browsing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a fourth example of the browsing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a fifth example of the browsing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a sixth example of the browsing screen displayed on the display shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the RAM shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing bookmark creation processing of the CPU shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a part of the bookmark reading process of the CPU shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is another part of the bookmark reading process of the CPU shown in FIG. 1, and is a flowchart subsequent to FIG. FIG. 12 is another part of the bookmark reading process of the CPU shown in FIG. 1, and is a flowchart subsequent to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a part of another example of the bookmark reading process of the CPU shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an electronic book browsing apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is an illustrative view showing one example of a system using the electronic book browsing apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a part of the bookmark reading process of the CPU shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a part of the bookmark reading process of the CPU shown in FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic book browsing device 10 of this embodiment also functions as a bookmark creation device or a bookmark voice reading device (output device), and includes a CPU 12. Connected to the CPU 12 are a key input device 14, a display driver 16, a touch panel 20, a hard disk drive (HDD) 22, a RAM 24, and a D / A converter 26. A display 18 is connected to the display driver 16. Although not shown, the touch panel 20 is provided on the display 18. Furthermore, a speaker 28 is connected to the D / A converter 26.

  The CPU 12 governs overall control of the electronic book browsing apparatus 10. The CPU 12 has a built-in RTC 12a, and time information (year / month / day and hour / minute / second) counted by the RTC 12a is given to the CPU 12.

  Although not shown, the key input device 14 includes various keys for inputting alphabets, kana or symbols (codes, numbers, etc.). For example, the various keys are arranged in a Qwerty array. Information (key data) corresponding to the key operated by the user is input to the CPU 12.

  The display driver 16 controls display on the display 18 under the instruction of the CPU 12. Although not shown, the display driver 16 has a VRAM (Video-RAM) that temporarily stores display image data corresponding to a screen displayed on the display 18. The CPU 12 stores the display image data in this VRAM.

  The touch panel 20 is a pointing device for instructing an arbitrary position within the screen of the display 18. For example, the touch panel 20 of this embodiment is a capacitive touch panel that detects a change in capacitance between electrodes that occurs when an object such as a finger approaches the surface, and includes, for example, one or a plurality of touch panels. It is possible to detect that a finger has touched the touch panel 20. In addition, when the touch panel 20 is pressed, stroked, or touched with a finger on the surface (upper surface), the position of the finger is specified, and coordinate data (coordinate data) indicating the operated position (touch position). Is output to the CPU 12. Based on the coordinate data from the touch panel 20, the CPU 12 specifies an operation based on the movement of the user's finger, or specifies an image displayed on the display 18 corresponding to the position touched by the user.

  Hereinafter, in this embodiment, an operation in which the user touches the upper surface of the touch panel 20 with a finger is referred to as “touch”. On the other hand, the operation of releasing the finger from the touch panel 20 is referred to as “release”. Further, an operation of stroking the upper surface of the touch panel 20 with a finger is referred to as “slide”. Further, an operation of flipping or touching the upper surface of the touch panel 20 with a finger is referred to as “flick”. The coordinates indicated by the touch are referred to as “touch point (touch start position)”, and the coordinates indicated by the release are referred to as “release point (touch end position)”. Furthermore, an operation in which the user touches the upper surface of the touch panel 20 and subsequently releases it is referred to as “touch and release”. An operation performed on the touch panel 20 such as touch, release, slide, flick, and touch and release is generally referred to as a “touch operation”.

  Note that the touch operation is not limited to a finger, and may be performed by other objects such as a touch pen (stylus pen) with a conductor attached to the tip. In this embodiment, a surface type capacitive touch panel is adopted as the touch panel 20, but other types of touch panels such as a resistive film type, an ultrasonic type, an infrared type and an electromagnetic induction type are used. It may be adopted.

  The HDD 22 is a main storage device of the electronic book browsing device 10 of this embodiment, and stores a control program, electronic book information (electronic book data), character recognition data, synthesized voice data, and the like, which will be described later. In response, the data is loaded into the RAM 24. The RAM 24 is used as a work area (including a drawing area) or a buffer area of the CPU 12.

  In this embodiment, the HDD 22 is used as the non-volatile memory. However, other non-volatile memories such as a flash memory and an EEPROM can be used.

  The D / A converter 26 converts (decodes) the digital audio signal into an analog audio signal and supplies the analog audio signal to the speaker 28 via the amplifier. Therefore, sound or sound corresponding to the analog sound signal is output from the speaker 28.

  For example, in such an electronic book browsing apparatus 10, a desired electronic book is selected on the menu screen (not shown) by an instruction from the user using the key input device 14 or the touch panel 20, and the browsing instruction is issued. When input, a browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. 2 is displayed on the display 18. On the browsing screen 100, the text (contents) of the electronic book is displayed in the display area 102. Although detailed description is omitted, when a browsing instruction is input and the text of the electronic book is initially displayed, the text is displayed from the top of the text.

  In FIG. 2 (the same applies to FIGS. 3 to 7), only a part of the text is shown in Japanese for simplification. The same applies to a list of bookmarks to be described later.

  Further, a button image 110 and a button image 112 are provided at the right end of the browsing screen 100, and a scroll bar 114 is displayed therebetween. The button image 110 is a button for scrolling the browsing screen 100 downward. The button image 112 is a button for scrolling the browsing screen 100 upward. For example, when the button image 110 or the button image 112 is touched, the browsing screen 100 is scrolled downward or upward.

  Further, the scroll bar 114 is moved up and down as the browsing screen 100 is scrolled downward or upward. However, the viewing screen 100 can be scrolled downward or upward by touching the scroll bar 114 and sliding (dragging) up and down.

  Further, a button image 116 and a button image 118 are displayed below the button image 112. The button image 116 is a button for scrolling the browsing screen 100 downward in units of the vertical length of the display area 102. The button image 118 is a button for scrolling the browsing screen 100 upward in units of length in the vertical direction of the display area 102. For example, when the button image 116 or the button image 118 is touched, the browsing screen 100 is scrolled downward or upward in units of length in the vertical direction.

  Here, the button images 110, 112, 116, 118 and the scroll bar 114 are touch-operated, but the cursor (arrow) key, page-up key, or page-down key may be operated. Good.

  When a user inputs a bookmark creation (registration) instruction while browsing an electronic book, the user can select a location (position) where a bookmark is to be created. At this time, when the user touches (specifies) a desired range, that is, the start position and the end position, the range is selected as a range for setting a bookmark.

  Although detailed description is omitted, in this embodiment, the user can select a range with a predetermined number of characters (within 20 full-width characters).

  On the other hand, when the user does not select a desired range, a range determined by a predetermined number of characters (in this embodiment, 20 full-width characters) from the beginning of the chapter or page is automatically selected as a range for setting a bookmark. The However, when a predetermined break such as a chapter or page is not set in the text of the electronic book, a range determined by a predetermined number of characters (20 full-width characters) from the top of the display area 102 of the display 18 is a bookmark. Is automatically selected as the setting range.

  When a range for setting a bookmark is selected, as shown in FIG. 3, in the text displayed in the display area 102, a marker 102a is displayed (set) in the selected range (selected range). However, in FIG. 3, the marker 102a is indicated by a square frame. The same applies to the case where the marker 102a is displayed. Although illustration is omitted, since the range (the number of characters) cannot be known in advance for the automatically selected range, a marker 102a having a preset length is displayed (set) at the corresponding portion of the text. Therefore, as described above, when the head position of the selection range is automatically determined (designated), the tail position is determined (designated) by the length of the marker 102a.

  In this embodiment, the marker 102a is displayed in the selection range. However, the character string included in the selection range is displayed in a color different from that of other characters, or displayed in reverse color. Also good.

  When a range for setting a bookmark is selected, a character string displayed (included) in the range is read. In this embodiment, since the text data corresponding to the character string included in the selection range is registered as bookmark information, the character string in the selection range is read by the text reading engine. However, for the automatically selected range, reading of 20 characters from the top of the chapter or page is executed, or reading of 20 characters from the top of the display area 102a is executed. In addition, since the electronic book may be written in a language other than Japanese, reading is performed using a reading engine for all languages registered in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10.

  If reading is successful, text data corresponding to the character string can be registered as bookmark information. In such a case, bookmark information including position information of the selected range and text data corresponding to the character string automatically read in the selected range is registered.

  On the other hand, if reading fails, an error occurs and text data cannot be automatically registered as bookmark information. This is because the electronic book data may be created in a format other than the text format, such as the PDF format, the JPEG format, or the BMP format.

  In such a case, the user inputs a character string related to the selection range, or a character string of unique information about the selection range (bookmark to be set) (date information in this embodiment) is automatically input. However, the character string related to the selection range means a character string included in the selection range or a character string arbitrarily input by the user for the range.

  Therefore, when a character string is input by the user, bookmark information including the position information of the selection range and text data corresponding to the character string input by the user is registered. Further, when a character string of date / time information is automatically input, bookmark information including position information of the selection range and text data corresponding to the character string of date / time information is registered.

  For example, when reading of a character string for a selection range fails, an input selection screen 150 for selecting whether or not the user inputs a character string is displayed on the front of the browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. The This input selection screen 150 includes a display area 150a. In the display area 150a, it is selected whether or not the user inputs a word or sentence (character string) registered in the bookmark, that is, a character string related to the selection range. Is displayed. A button image 150b and a button image 150c are displayed below the display area 150a. The button image 150b is provided for the user to select to input a character string. The button image 150c is provided for the user to select not to input a character string.

  However, instead of touching the button image 150b, the Y key may be operated, and similarly, the N key may be operated instead of touching the button image 150c.

  When the user selects to input a character string by touching the button image 150b on the input selection screen 150, the character string is input instead of the input selection screen 150 as shown in FIG. An input screen 200 is displayed on the front of the browsing screen 100. The browsing screen 100 is provided with a display area 200a, and text indicating that a character string is input within a predetermined number of characters (20 characters in this embodiment) is displayed in the display area 200a. A display area 200b is provided below the display area 200a. The input character string is displayed on the display area 200b, and a button image 200c and a button image 200d are displayed below the display area 200b. The The button image 200c is provided to end the input of the character string. The button image 200d is provided to cancel the input of the character string.

  However, the F key may be operated instead of touching the button image 200c. Similarly, the C key may be operated instead of touching the button image 200d.

  When the input of the character string is completed by touching the button image 200c, text data corresponding to the input character string is registered as bookmark information. On the other hand, when the input of the character string is canceled by touching the button image 200d, the screen returns to the input selection screen 150 shown in FIG.

  When the user selects not to input a character string by touching the button image 150c on the input selection screen 150 shown in FIG. 4, the text data corresponding to the date / time information is changed to the bookmark information. Registered as text data. At this time, the CPU 12 acquires the current time (including date) from the RTC 12a, and registers text data corresponding to the current time.

  When the bookmark is registered, the normal browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. However, the location where the bookmark is registered is highlighted by the marker 102a as shown in FIG.

  Moreover, in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 of this embodiment, a registered bookmark can be read out by voice (bookmark voice reading out). Briefly, text corresponding to text data included in the bookmark information is output from the speaker 28 as synthesized speech. For example, when the browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. 2 or FIG. 3 is displayed on the display 18, when the user uses the key input device 14 to instruct to read out the voice of the bookmark, as shown in FIG. 6. In addition, the display of the browsing screen 100 is changed.

  As shown in FIG. 6, when the reading of a bookmark is performed, for example, the display area 102 is reduced and displayed on the right side of the browsing screen 100. On the left side of the browsing screen 100, a display area 104 is provided in the center. A button image 250 is provided at the center of the display area 104 and at the right end thereof. A button image 120 and a button image 122 are displayed side by side above the display area 104. Further, an operation panel 252 is displayed below the display area 104.

  In the display area 104, a plurality of check boxes 104a are displayed at the left end thereof, and a registered bookmark character string is displayed corresponding to each check box 104a. However, a blank part indicates that the bookmark is not registered.

  The button image 120 is provided to display a table of contents (not shown) in the display area 104 instead of the bookmark list. The button image 122 is provided to display a list of bookmarks in the display area 104 instead of the table of contents. The button image 250 is provided to close the display area 104 and to hide the button images 120 and 122 and the operation panel 252. Therefore, when the button image 250 is touched, the browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. 2 or 3 is returned.

  The operation panel 252 includes a button image 252a, a button image 252b, a button image 252c, and a button image 252d. The button image 252a is provided in order to start reading out a bookmark voice. The button image 252b is provided to display the content of the text including the character string of the bookmark when the reading of the bookmark is stopped and the reading of the bookmark is stopped in the display area 102. The button image 252c is provided to return to the previous bookmark. The button image 252d is provided to advance to the next bookmark. Specifically, when the bookmark is being read out by voice, when the button image 252c or the button image 252d is touched, the check in the check box 104a is added to the previous or next bookmark and the previous one. Or read the next bookmark aloud. However, when the bookmark is not read out by voice, when the button image 252c or the button image 252d is touched, the check in the check box 104a is only attached to the previous or next bookmark.

  For example, when an instruction to read aloud a bookmark is instructed, it is determined whether or not language information is stored as attribute information of electronic book data. This is because a character string of a bookmark stored as text data is read out by voice using a speech conversion engine of a correct language.

  When language information is stored in association with the electronic book data, the language information is extracted and a speech conversion engine of the corresponding language is selected. When the speech conversion engine of the corresponding language is stored (registered) in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, the character string with the bookmark set is read out sequentially by voice in response to the touch of the button image 252a. . More specifically, text data of a character string in which a bookmark is set is converted into a digital voice signal using synthesized voice data and a voice conversion engine for the language of the character string, and is further converted by a D / A converter 26. After being converted into an analog audio signal, it is output from the speaker 28. The same applies to the case where the bookmark is read out by voice.

  However, if the speech conversion engine of the corresponding language is not stored (registered) in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, the user is notified that the speech cannot be read out. Although illustration is omitted, a message indicating that the bookmark cannot be read out by voice is displayed on the front of the browsing screen 100, a warning sound is output from the speaker 28 (or another speaker not shown), or both of them. Is executed. The same applies to the case where the bookmark cannot be read out by voice.

  When language information is not stored in association with electronic book data, a language selection screen 300 for allowing the user to select a language is displayed on the front of the browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. The On the language selection screen 300, a display area 302 is displayed, and a button image 304 is displayed on the right side thereof. Further, a button image 306 is displayed below the display area 302 and the button image 304.

  The display area 302 displays the language selected by the user. The button image 304 is provided for displaying a language in a pull-down menu (not shown). Therefore, the user can change the language displayed in the display area 302 by displaying a pull-down menu by touching the button image 304. However, the pull-down menu includes a display (for example, “automatic selection”) indicating that the language is automatically selected (the user does not select the language). This is because the user may not know (not recognize) the language of the electronic book. The button image 306 is provided for determining the language selected by the user.

  However, instead of touching the button image 306, the ENTER key may be operated. Although illustration is omitted, when the button image 306 is touched and the language selected by the user is determined, the selected language screen 300 is not displayed and the browsing screen 100 as shown in FIG. 6 is returned.

  When the user selects a language on the language selection screen 300, processing according to whether or not the speech conversion engine of the language is registered in the electronic book browsing device 10 is executed as described above. Briefly, when the speech conversion engine of the corresponding language is registered in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, the button images 252a-252d provided on the operation panel 252 are touched as described above. The process is executed. On the other hand, when the speech conversion engine of the corresponding language is not registered in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, it is notified that the speech cannot be read out. The same applies to the case where language determination fails, as will be described later.

  On the language selection screen 300, when the user does not select a language, that is, when “automatic selection” is determined, the language is automatically determined. Specifically, first, it is determined whether or not electronic book data is created as text data. When the electronic book data is created as text data, a part thereof is extracted and the language is determined. At this time, it is determined whether the text data can be read using the reading engines for a plurality of languages, and the language for the reading engines that can be read is determined to be the language of the electronic book.

  On the other hand, if the electronic book data is not created as text data, a part of the electronic book data is extracted and converted to text data. For example, as a technique for converting into text data, a well-known OCR (Optical Character Reader) technique can be used. However, since the electronic book data is equivalent to data obtained by optically reading a printed character or the like, when OCR is executed, the optical reading process is not executed and a pre-stored pattern ( The character string is identified by collating with (character recognition data), and the text data of the identified character string is output. Then, as described above, the language is determined using the reading engines for a plurality of languages.

  If the determination of the language fails, it is determined that the bookmark cannot be read out by voice, and a notification that the voice cannot be read out is notified. On the other hand, when the determination of the language is successful, processing according to whether or not the voice conversion engine for the determined language is registered in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 is executed.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the memory map 500 of the RAM 24 shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, the RAM 24 includes a program storage area 502 and a data storage area 504. The program storage area 502 stores a control program for the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, and the control programs include an image generation program 502a, an image display program 502b, a bookmark creation program 502c, a bookmark reading program 502d, a text conversion program 502e, and a reading engine 502f. And a voice conversion engine 502g.

  The image generation program 502a generates display image data for various screens (100, 150, 200, 300, etc.) using the electronic book data 504a, bookmark data 504d, button image data (not shown), and the like. It is a program. The image display program 502b is a program for outputting display image data generated according to the image generation program 502a to the display 18.

  The bookmark creation program 502c is a program for creating bookmark information automatically or in accordance with a user instruction. The bookmark reading program 502d is a program for outputting the text data of the bookmark included in the bookmark data 504d by voice using a voice conversion engine 502g and synthesized voice data 504c described later.

  The text conversion program 502e is a program for converting a part of electronic book data into text data. The reading engine 502f is a program for reading text data. In this embodiment, the reading engine 502f determines whether electronic book data can be read. However, the reading engine 502f is provided corresponding to each of a plurality of languages. The voice conversion engine 502g is a program for outputting text data by voice using the synthesized voice data 504c. The voice conversion engine 502g is provided corresponding to each of a plurality of languages.

  Although not shown, other programs are also stored in the program storage area 502.

  In the data storage area 504, electronic book data 504a, character recognition data 504b, synthesized voice data 504c, and bookmark data 504d are stored.

  The electronic book data 504a is electronic data of a predetermined format (format) about a publication, and attribute information such as language information (not shown) is stored in association with it. The electronic book data 504a may include not only one publication but also a plurality of publications. The character recognition data 504b is data about a pattern for recognizing characters when the text conversion program 502e converts the electronic book data 504a into text data.

  The synthesized voice data 504c is voice data used when outputting text data by voice, and is stored for each language. Bookmark data 504d is data on bookmark information. As described above, the bookmark information includes at least position information (address information) about a range in the body of the electronic book in which the bookmark is set and text data of a character string in which the bookmark is set.

  Although illustration is omitted, the data storage area 504 stores other data such as character image data such as button images. The data storage area 504 is also provided with a counter (timer), a flag, and the like necessary for executing the control program.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing bookmark creation processing of the CPU 12 shown in FIG. When the user inputs a bookmark creation instruction, as shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 12 starts a bookmark creation process, and determines whether or not an arbitrary range is selected in step S1. That is, it is determined whether or not the user has designated a range (head position and tail position) for setting a bookmark. If “YES” in the step S1, that is, if an arbitrary range is selected, the selected range is read in a step S3, and the process proceeds to the step S7. In step S3, it is determined whether or not the reading engine 502f can read the character string included in the selection range determined by the head position and the tail position specified by the user. As described above, if reading is impossible, an error occurs. The same applies to step S5 described later. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S1, that is, if an arbitrary range is not selected, 20 characters from the head are read as a selected range in a step S5, and the process proceeds to a step S7.

  Although detailed explanation is omitted, in order to consider the time when the user considers the position or range where the bookmark is set, the determination process of whether or not an arbitrary range has been selected is performed for a predetermined time (for example, 5 to 5). 10 seconds).

  In step S7, it is determined whether the data has been read correctly. If “YES” in the step S7, that is, if it can be read correctly, in a step S9, the selection range (address information) and the character string information are stored (added) in the bookmark data 504d, and the bookmark creating process is ended. That is, in step S9, bookmark information including position information about the selected range and text data automatically read for the selected range is registered. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S7, that is, if the reading is not correct, an input selection screen 150 as shown in FIG. 4 is displayed on the display 18 in a step S11.

  In the next step S13, it is determined whether or not the input is automatic. That is, it is determined whether the button image 150b is touched or the button image 150c is touched. If “YES” in the step S13, that is, if the button image 150c is touched, it is determined that the automatic input is selected, and the position information and date / time information of the selected range are stored in the bookmark data 504d in a step S15 ( Add) to finish the bookmark creation process. However, the CPU 12 acquires date and time information from the RTC 12a when executing the process of step S15. In step S15, bookmark information including position information about the selected range and text data of date / time information is registered.

  If “NO” in the step S13, that is, if the button image 150b is touched, it is determined that the manual input is selected, and the input screen 200 as shown in FIG. indicate. In the next step S19, it is determined whether or not to cancel. That is, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the button image 200d has been touched.

  If “YES” in the step S19, that is, if the button image 200d is touched, it is determined that the cancel is made, and the process returns to the step S11. That is, the screen returns to the input selection screen 150. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S19, that is, if the button image 200d is not touched, it is determined whether or not the input of the character string is completed in a step S21.

  If “NO” in the step S21, that is, if the character string input is not finished, the process returns to the step S19 as it is. Therefore, the input of the character string is continued. Although illustration is omitted, if a character is input using the key input device 14 while the loop of steps S19 and S21 is being processed, the input character is displayed in the display area 200b.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S21, that is, if the input of the character string is completed, the selection range (address information) and the character string information are stored (added) in the bookmark data 504d in a step S23, and The bookmark creation process ends. That is, in step S23, the bookmark information including the position information of the selection range and the text data corresponding to the character string manually input by the user is registered.

  10 to 12 are flowcharts showing the voice reading process of the bookmark of the CPU 12 shown in FIG. When the user instructs the bookmark to be read aloud, the CPU 12 starts a bookmark voice reading process, and determines whether or not there is language information in step S51. That is, it is determined whether or not language information is described in the attribute information stored in association with the electronic book data.

  If “YES” in the step S51, that is, if there is language information, the language information is extracted in a step S53, and the process proceeds to a step S71 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S51, that is, if there is no language information, a language selection screen 300 as shown in FIG. 7 is displayed on the display 18 in a step S55, and the language is selected in a step S57. Judge whether there is. That is, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the button image 306 is touched in a state where any language is selected.

  If “YES” in the step S57, that is, if a language is selected, the process proceeds to a step S71 as it is. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S57, that is, if “automatic selection” is selected, it is determined that no language is selected, and whether or not the electronic book data is text data is determined in a step S59. To do. Here, it is determined whether or not reading is possible by the reading engines 502f of a plurality of languages. As described above, if reading is impossible, an error occurs.

  If “YES” in the step S59, that is, if it can be read by the reading engine 502f, it is determined that the electronic book data is text data, and a part of the text data (for example, about several lines) is determined in a step S61. Is extracted, and the process proceeds to step S65 shown in FIG. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S59, that is, if the reading engine 502f cannot read, a part (for example, a range corresponding to about several lines) of the electronic book data is converted into text data in a step S63. The process is executed and the process proceeds to step S65. As described above, in step S63, a part of the electronic book data is converted into text data using the OCR technique. At this time, the character recognition data 504b is used for pattern recognition.

  As shown in FIG. 11, in step S65, it is determined whether or not the text data has been successfully extracted. If “NO” in the step S65, if the text data extraction fails, the process proceeds to a step S75. For example, when electronic book data cannot be correctly converted into text data, the text data cannot be extracted. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S65, that is, if extraction of the text data is successful, a language determination process is executed in a step S67, and it is determined whether or not the language determination is successful in a step S69.

  However, in step S67, the CPU 12 performs reading with the reading engines 502f of a plurality of languages, and determines the language of the reading engine that has been read correctly as the language of the extracted text data, that is, electronic book data. On the other hand, if the extracted text data cannot be read by the reading engines 502f of a plurality of languages, the language determination has failed.

  If “NO” in the step S69, that is, if the language determination fails, the process proceeds to a step S75. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S69, that is, if the language determination is successful, a speech conversion engine is selected in a step S71. Here, the CPU 12 selects a voice conversion engine for the language of the electronic book. In the next step 73, it is determined whether or not there is a corresponding speech conversion engine. That is, it is determined whether the speech conversion engine of the corresponding language is registered (stored) in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 (program storage area 502).

  If “NO” in the step S73, that is, if there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, the user is notified in a step S75 that the voice reading is impossible. Here, the CPU 12 displays a message to the effect that the voice cannot be read out on the display 18, outputs a sound to that effect (warning sound) from the speaker 28 or the like, or executes both of them.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S73, that is, if there is a corresponding speech conversion engine, it is determined whether or not the speech reading is started in a step S77 shown in FIG. That is, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the button image 252a is touched.

  If “NO” in the step S77, that is, if the voice reading is not started, the process proceeds to a step S81 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S77, that is, if the reading of the voice is started, the reading of the voice of the bookmark is started in a step S79. Here, by operating the speech conversion engine 502g selected in step S71, the speech is read out in order from the text data of the character string whose check box 104a is checked using the synthesized speech data 504c. The Therefore, the voice corresponding to the bookmark character string is output from the speaker 28. Although illustration is omitted, when an earphone jack is provided in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, when the earphone is connected, sound corresponding to the character string of the bookmark is output from the earphone jack. However, when the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 has a wireless communication function such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and the user wears an earphone capable of wireless communication with the electronic book browsing apparatus 10, the voice by reading aloud is read out. Data is transmitted to the earphone by wireless communication.

  In the next step S81, it is determined whether or not to stop. That is, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the button image 252b is touched. If “NO” in the step S81, that is, if not stopped, the process proceeds to a step S87 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S81, that is, if it is stopped, the speech reading of the bookmark is stopped in a step S83, that is, the speech conversion engine 502g is stopped. In step S85, the contents of the corresponding electronic book are displayed, and the process proceeds to step S87. Here, the CPU 12 acquires the position information (address information) included in the bookmark information together with the text data corresponding to the bookmark (character string) whose check box 104 a is checked, and displays the page including the position information in the display area 102. Or display the text in the display area 102 with the position information at the top.

  In step S87, it is determined whether or not to return. That is, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the button image 252c is touched. If “NO” in the step S87, that is, if not returning, the process proceeds to a step S91 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S87, that is, if a return is made, the process returns to the previous bookmark in a step S89 and proceeds to a step S91. In step S89, the check box 104a of the previous bookmark (up one) is checked, and if the voice is being read out, the character string or date / time information of the previous bookmark is read out by voice. However, when the button image 252c is touched while the uppermost bookmark check box 104a is checked, the lowermost bookmark check box 104a is checked or read out.

  In the next step S91, it is determined whether or not to send. That is, the CPU 12 determines whether or not the button image 252d is touched. If “NO” in the step S91, that is, if not feeding, the process proceeds to a step S95 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S91, that is, if it is a feed, the process proceeds to the next bookmark in a step S93, and then proceeds to the step S95. In step S93, the check box 104a for the next (one lower) bookmark is checked, and if it is being read out by voice, the character string or date / time information about the next bookmark is read out by voice. However, when the button image 252d is touched while the lowermost bookmark check box 104a is checked, the uppermost bookmark check box 104a is checked or read out.

  In step S95, it is determined whether or not the process is finished. That is, it is determined whether or not the end of the speech reading is instructed. If “NO” in the step S95, that is, if not finished, the process returns to the step S77 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S95, that is, if it is finished, the bookmark speech reading process is finished.

  According to this embodiment, since the character string information of the bookmark is output by voice, it is possible to search more easily than by searching for a desired bookmark visually. In particular, when a large number of bookmarks are registered, the effect appears remarkably.

  In this embodiment, the case where a dedicated electronic book browsing apparatus is used as an apparatus for browsing an electronic book has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, PDA, mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer (including iPad, iPod, Walkman (registered trademark), etc.), PC (notebook, desktop), portable game machine, electronic blackboard, digital photo frame, microwave oven and refrigerator Etc. can also be used. However, it is assumed that the microwave oven and refrigerator have a function of reading recipes and the like.

  For example, when a mobile phone or a smartphone is used, a mode (silent mode) in which no sound is output may be set. In such a case, when it is determined to start reading aloud a bookmark, the user is asked whether or not to read aloud, and if the user chooses to speak aloud, Just start.

  Therefore, when using a mobile phone or a smartphone, as shown in FIG. 13, a part of the bookmark voice reading process shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 is changed. As shown in FIG. 13, when the CPU 12 determines “YES” in step S77, it determines whether or not the manner mode is set in step S101. If “NO” in the step S101, that is, if the manner mode is not set, the process proceeds to a step S79 as it is.

  On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S101, that is, if the manner mode is set, a confirmation screen is displayed on the display 18 in a step S103. Although illustration is omitted, for example, although the manner mode is set on the confirmation screen, a message asking whether or not to read the bookmark is displayed, and a button image and a bookmark for selecting to read the bookmark are displayed. A button image for selecting not to read is displayed.

  In step S105, it is determined whether to read the bookmark. If “NO” in the step S105, that is, if a button image for selecting not to read the bookmark is touched, it is determined that the bookmark is not read, and the process proceeds to a step S81 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S105, that is, if a button image for selecting reading a bookmark is touched, it is determined that the bookmark is read, and the process proceeds to a step S79.

  In FIG. 13, the processes in steps S101 to S105 are executed between steps S77 and S79. However, these processes may be executed before step S1. However, in such a case, if “NO” in the step S105, the bookmark voice reading process may be terminated as it is.

  In this embodiment, since a voice conversion engine that converts text data into a digital voice signal is used, character string information (date and time information) included in bookmark information is in a text format. However, data in other formats is converted into digital voice. When a speech conversion engine that converts signals is used, the character string information (date / time information) of the other format may be included in the bookmark information.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the touch panel is provided on the display, but the touch panel may not be provided, or another pointing device such as a computer mouse may be used.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, in the bookmark speech reading process, the language information of the electronic book is extracted, the speech conversion engine is selected, and the bookmark is read, so that the bookmark information as shown in this embodiment is registered. If you have an e-book, you can read a bookmark. That is, the bookmark data does not need to be created and registered using the electronic book browsing apparatus of this embodiment.

  Further, in this embodiment, when inputting characters, a hardware key such as a key input device is used. However, software keys are displayed on the display, and characters and the like are input using the software keys. You may do it.

  Furthermore, the specific number of characters and screens mentioned in the above description are merely examples, and can be appropriately changed according to the needs of product specifications and the like.

  In the above-described embodiment, if there is no corresponding voice conversion engine in the bookmark voice reading process (“NO” in step S73), the voice reading process is ended without performing voice reading. However, it need not be limited to this. In another embodiment, (1) text data included in bookmark information may be converted into synthesized voice data by an external (other) computer, and the converted synthesized voice data may be received and reproduced. (2) Alternatively, the corresponding voice conversion engine may be distributed from an external computer, and the voice conversion of the bookmark may be executed by operating the distributed voice conversion engine.

  In such a case, it is necessary to communicate with an external computer. Therefore, in another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 is further provided with a wireless communication module 30 for communicating with another (external) computer. Connected. An antenna 32 is connected to the wireless communication module 30. However, it may be communicably connected to an external computer or network by wire.

  As shown in FIG. 15, the system 50 includes a server 52, and the server 52 is connected to the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 via a network 52 such as the Internet or a LAN. This server 52 corresponds to the external computer described above. For example, the server 52 is a general-purpose server, and stores speech conversion engines and synthesized speech data for many languages. For example, the server 52 stores voice conversion engines and synthesized voice data for a larger number of languages than the number of voice conversion engines included in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10.

  In the case of (1) above, when the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 determines that there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 sends the language information of the electronic book, the text data of the bookmark, and the voice conversion request to the server via the network 54. 52. When the server 52 receives the language information and the text data of the bookmark, the server 52 operates the speech conversion engine for the language indicated by the language information by using the synthesized speech data for the bookmark text data. Generate data. Then, the server 52 transmits the generated synthesized voice data of the bookmark to the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 that has transmitted the voice conversion request. Therefore, when the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 receives the synthesized voice data of the bookmark and then instructs to start reading out the voice, the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 reproduces (outputs) the synthesized voice data of the bookmark.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 16, a part of the bookmark voice reading process shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 is changed. Here, for the sake of simplicity, only the changed processing will be described. As shown in FIG. 16, if there is no corresponding speech conversion engine, “NO” is determined in the step S73, and the CPU 12 sends the language information of the electronic book, the text data of the bookmark, and the speech conversion to the server 52 in a step S121. Send a request. In a succeeding step S123, it is determined whether or not the synthesized voice data of the bookmark is received.

  If “YES” in the step S123, that is, if the synthesized voice data of the bookmark is received, the process proceeds to a step S77 as it is. However, when the CPU 12 starts reading the bookmark in step S79, the CPU 12 reproduces (outputs) the received synthesized voice data of the bookmark. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S123, that is, if the synthesized voice data of the bookmark is not received, it is determined whether or not there is an error in a step S125. For example, the CPU 12 determines whether a communication error has occurred or an error notification has been received from the server 12. The same applies to the case of (2) described later. If “NO” in the step S125, that is, if not an error, the process returns to the step S123 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S125, that is, if an error occurs, the process proceeds to a step S75.

  In the case of (2) above, when the electronic book viewing apparatus 10 determines that there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 sends the language information of the electronic book and the delivery request for the voice conversion engine to the server via the network 54. 52. Upon receiving the electronic book language information and the voice conversion engine delivery request, the server 52 delivers (transmits) the voice conversion engine for the language indicated by the language information to the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 that has sent the delivery request. To do. Accordingly, when the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 receives the voice conversion engine and then instructs to start reading the voice, the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 operates the received voice conversion engine to read the voice of the bookmark.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 17, a part of the bookmark voice reading process shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 is changed. Here, for the sake of simplicity, only the changed processing will be described. As shown in FIG. 17, if there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, “NO” is determined in the step S73, and the CPU 12 sends the electronic book language information and the voice conversion engine distribution request to the server 52 in a step S131. Send. In a succeeding step S133, it is determined whether or not the voice conversion engine is received.

  If “YES” in the step S133, that is, if the voice conversion engine is received, the process proceeds to a step S77. Therefore, when the CPU 12 starts reading the bookmark in step S79, the CPU 12 operates the received voice conversion engine. On the other hand, if “NO” in the step S133, that is, if the voice conversion engine is not received, it is determined whether or not an error occurs in a step S135. If “NO” in the step S135, the process returns to the step S133 as it is. On the other hand, if “YES” in the step S135, the process proceeds to a step S75.

  In addition, when using a mobile phone and a smart phone provided with a communication function, it is also possible to perform a process as shown in FIG.

  In another embodiment, when there is no corresponding voice conversion engine, the text data of the bookmark is converted into synthesized voice data by the external computer (server 52), or the voice conversion engine is downloaded from the server 52. However, if the language determination fails (step S69), the server 52 may further execute the language determination. In such a case, text data extracted from the electronic book and a language determination request are transmitted to the server 52. The server 52 executes a language determination process similar to that of the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 to determine the language. Although detailed description is omitted, the server 52 includes reading engines for a number of languages larger than the number of reading engines included in the electronic book browsing apparatus 10. Then, the determination result is notified to the electronic book browsing apparatus 10 that has made the language determination request.

  Further, although omitted in the description of FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, when the text data of the bookmark cannot be converted into the synthesized voice data by the server 52 or when the voice conversion engine cannot be distributed from the server 52, the server 52 is electronic. An error is notified to the book browsing apparatus 10.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electronic book browsing apparatus 12 ... Computer 14 ... Key input device 16 ... Display driver 18 ... Display 20 ... Touch panel 22 ... HDD
24 ... RAM
28 ... Speaker 50 ... System 52 ... Server 54 ... Network

Claims (10)

A bookmark output device for outputting a bookmark of an electronic book by voice,
A storage unit that stores character string information of a bookmark set in the electronic book;
An extraction unit for extracting language information of the electronic book;
An engine selection unit that selects a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the extraction unit;
A bookmark output device comprising: an output unit that outputs the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit by voice by operating the voice conversion engine selected by the engine selection unit. A language information determination unit for determining whether or not the language information of the electronic book is stored;
When the language information determination unit determines that the language information of the electronic book is not stored, the language information determination unit further includes a language information selection unit that allows the user to select language information of the electronic book,
The bookmark output device according to claim 1, wherein the extraction unit extracts language information selected by the language information selection unit. A format determination unit that determines whether the format of the electronic book is a predetermined format when the language information of the electronic book is not selected by the language information selection unit;
A language information determination unit that determines language information of the electronic book based on a reading engine capable of reading the predetermined format when the format determination unit determines that the electronic book is in a predetermined format; ,
The bookmark output device according to claim 2, wherein the extraction unit extracts language information determined by the language information determination unit.   The bookmark output device according to claim 3, further comprising: a converting unit that converts the electronic book into the predetermined format when the format determining unit determines that the electronic book is not in the predetermined format. A mode determination unit that determines whether or not a mode in which no sound is output is set;
An operation determining unit that determines whether to operate the output unit when the mode determining unit determines that a mode that does not output sound is set;
When the operation determining unit determines that the output unit is to be operated, the output unit operates the voice conversion engine selected by the engine selecting unit to thereby store the bookmark stored in the storage unit. The bookmark output device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which outputs character string information by voice. A communication department;
Conversion for transmitting a voice conversion request for converting the bookmark character string information stored in the storage unit into voice data to an external computer when there is no voice conversion engine corresponding to the language information extracted by the extraction unit A request transmitter;
An audio data receiving unit for receiving audio data transmitted from the external computer;
The bookmark output device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the output unit outputs a voice corresponding to the voice data received by the voice data receiving unit. A communication department;
When there is no voice conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the extraction unit, a distribution request transmission unit that transmits a distribution request of the voice conversion engine to an external computer;
A voice conversion engine receiving unit for receiving the voice conversion engine distributed from the external computer;
The output unit, by operating the sound voice conversion engine that is received by the speech engine receiving unit, and outputs a voice character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit, claims 1 5 The bookmark output device according to any one of the above. A bookmark output program for a computer comprising a storage unit for storing character string information of a bookmark set in an electronic book, and outputting the bookmark of the electronic book by voice,
In the computer,
An extraction step of extracting language information of the electronic book;
An engine selection step of selecting a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the extraction step;
A bookmark output program for executing an output step of outputting the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit by voice by operating the voice conversion engine selected in the engine selection step. A bookmark output method for a computer, comprising a storage unit for storing character string information of a bookmark set in an electronic book, and outputting the bookmark of the electronic book by voice,
The computer
(A) extracting language information of the electronic book;
(B) selecting a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted in the step (a), and (c) operating the speech conversion engine selected in the step (b) A bookmark output method for outputting the stored character string information of the bookmark by voice. An electronic book browsing device for browsing electronic books,
A storage unit that stores character string information of a bookmark set in the electronic book;
An extraction unit for extracting language information of the electronic book;
An engine selection unit that selects a speech conversion engine according to the language information extracted by the extraction unit;
An electronic book browsing apparatus comprising: an output unit that outputs the character string information of the bookmark stored in the storage unit by voice by operating the voice conversion engine selected by the engine selection unit.

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