Drive device, acoustic device, and vehicle door

Abstract

The invention relates to a driving device, an acoustic device and a vehicle door, which can realize simplification and low cost of expansion accompanying addition of a loudspeaker and an amplifier. A drive device for driving a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle is provided with: an input connector which is disposed on the inside of the vehicle with respect to the panel, is supported by the speaker unit, and receives an input signal including a sound signal; and an amplifier that is disposed on the outside of the vehicle with respect to the panel, that is supported by the speaker unit, and that processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a driving device, an audio device and a vehicle door. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system that drives a plurality of speakers disposed on doors or the like of a vehicle using a four-channel amplifier provided on the center console or the like of the vehicle.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-197578

[0004] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, when various user requirements regarding output and channel counts are anticipated, it may be necessary to prepare multiple main units with different specifications, or the main unit may have to be overly functionalized. This results in a problem of increased costs.

[0005] Furthermore, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, when the system is expanded by adding speakers and amplifiers, additional space or mounting components are required to install the additional amplifiers in the vehicle, and wiring installation in the vehicle becomes complicated. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, an object of one embodiment of the present invention is to simplify and reduce costs in expansion associated with the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, a preferred embodiment of the present invention involves a driving device that drives a speaker unit installed on a panel of a vehicle. The driving device comprises: an input connector, which is arranged on the inside of the vehicle relative to the panel and is supported by the speaker unit, and is input with an input signal including a sound signal; and an amplifier, which is arranged on the outside of the vehicle relative to the panel and is supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0008] In addition, another preferred embodiment of the present invention involves a driving device that drives a speaker unit installed on a panel of a vehicle, and the driving device comprises: a flange that is fixed to the speaker unit and installed on the panel; an input connector that is arranged on the front side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and is supported by the speaker unit, and is input with an input signal including a sound signal; and an amplifier that is arranged on the back side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and is supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0009] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides an acoustic device including: the driving device according to the aforementioned embodiment; and the speaker unit.

[0010] Furthermore, a vehicle door according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention includes: the drive device according to the aforementioned embodiment; and the panel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 This is a side view showing a usage state of an acoustic device using the driving device according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 Viewed from the inside of the vehicle relative to the panel Figure 1 Figure 1 shows the audio device.

[0013] Figure 3 Viewed from the outside of the vehicle relative to the panel Figure 1 Figure 1 shows the audio device.

[0014] Figure 4 This is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which the amplifier and the speaker unit of the driving device according to the first embodiment are separated.

[0015] Figure 5 It is an exploded perspective view of the amplifier of the driving device according to the first embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing an acoustic device using the driving device according to the second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 It is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a vehicle door. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] The following describes embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions and scales of the various components in the accompanying drawings may differ from the actual dimensions and scales as appropriate. The embodiments described below are preferred examples of the present invention. Therefore, various technically preferred limitations are included in these embodiments. However, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description.

[0019] 1. First Implementation

[0020] 1-1. Audio equipment

[0021] Figure 1 It is a side view showing a usage state of the acoustic device 1 using the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is viewed from the inside of the vehicle relative to the panel 130 Figure 1FIG. 1 shows the audio device 1. Figure 3 Viewed from the outside of the vehicle relative to the panel Figure 1 FIG. 1 shows the audio device 1.

[0022] The following, first, is based on Figures 1 to 3 The outline of the audio device 1 is described below. In addition, hereinafter, the central axis of the speaker unit 20 is the axis AX, a direction along the axis AX from the back side toward the front side of the speaker unit 20 is the X1 direction, and a direction opposite to the X1 direction from the front side toward the back side of the speaker unit 20 is the X2 direction. In addition, hereinafter, the X1 direction and the X2 direction are sometimes not distinguished and are referred to as the axial direction. In addition, a direction along a virtual circle centered on the axis AX or the opposite direction thereof is sometimes referred to as the circumferential direction. Furthermore, a direction orthogonal to the axis AX and away from the axis AX or the opposite direction thereof is sometimes referred to as the radial direction. In addition, hereinafter, the situation of observing from the direction along the axis AX is sometimes referred to as a top view.

[0023] Audio device 1 is installed in a vehicle and emits sound into the vehicle interior. It has both speaker and amplifier functions. In this embodiment, the amplifier function is used to drive additional speakers installed when the speaker system is expanded. Furthermore, the amplifier function can drive the speakers of audio device 1. Audio device 1 is mounted on panel 130 by screws or the like.

[0024] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the panel 130 is an inner panel of a vehicle door disposed between the outer panel 110 and the door trim 120. Therefore, a space S1 is provided between the panel 130 and the door trim 120 in the X1 direction relative to the panel 130, i.e., on the vehicle inner side relative to the panel 130. On the other hand, a space S2 is provided between the panel 130 and the outer panel 110 in the X2 direction relative to the panel 130, i.e., on the vehicle outer side relative to the panel 130. Figure 1 , each of the outer panel 110 , the door trim 120 , and the panel 130 is schematically represented.

[0025] The panel 130 is provided with an opening 131, and the audio device 1 is configured to cover the opening 131. In addition, the panel 130 is not limited to the inner panel of the vehicle door, and can be, for example, a panel other than the inner panel of the vehicle door, or a panel other than the vehicle door. Figure 7 An example of a vehicle door will be described.

[0026] like Figure 1 As shown, the audio device 1 includes a driving device 10 and a speaker unit 20 .

[0027] Speaker unit 20 is a dynamic driver that converts an electronic sound signal from driving device 10 into sound, and is mounted on vehicle panel 130 by screw fastening, etc. Speaker unit 20 includes a frame 21 , a diaphragm 22 , and a magnetic circuit 23 .

[0028] The frame 21 is a structure for supporting the vibration plate 22 and the magnetic circuit 23. The frame 21 is made of, for example, a metal material or a resin material.

[0029] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the frame 21 is roughly in the shape of the side surface of a truncated cone extending in the X1 direction with the axis AX as the center. At the end of the frame 21 in the X1 direction, the outer peripheral edge of the vibration plate 22 is joined by an adhesive or the like. In addition, the flange 11 described later is fixed at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the end of the frame 21 in the X1 direction in the X2 direction. On the other hand, at the end of the frame 21 in the X2 direction, the magnetic circuit 23 is joined by an adhesive or the like. In addition, the shape of the frame 21 is not limited to Figure 1 The examples shown are arbitrary. In addition, the frame 21 may be composed of a single member or a plurality of members joined together by bonding or the like.

[0030] The vibration plate 22 is a vibrating body made of a sheet material, and emits sound by vibration. The sheet material constituting the vibration plate 22 is obtained, for example, by hardening or solidifying a resin material after impregnating it in a fiber substrate. Examples of the resin material include polyester resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane, melamine resin, modified rubber resin, and phenolic resin. Examples of the fiber substrate include carbon fiber, aromatic polyamide fiber, glass fiber, ceramic fiber, silica fiber, metal fiber, potassium titanate fiber, zirconium oxide fiber, polyacrylate fiber, polyphenylene sulfide fiber, vinylon fiber, rayon fiber, nylon fiber, polyester fiber, acrylic fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyethylene fiber, cotton fiber, hemp fiber, and cellulose fiber. A coating composed of, for example, a metal such as aluminum or an inorganic material such as DLC (Diamond-like Carbon) may also be provided on the surface of the sheet material.

[0031] The diaphragm 22 has a surface facing the X1 direction and a surface facing the X2 direction, and vibrates in the direction along the axis AX. The surface of the diaphragm 22 facing the X1 direction is the sound emitting surface. Although not shown, a voice coil that generates a magnetic field by inputting an electronic sound signal from the driving device 10 is fixed to the surface of the diaphragm 22 facing the X2 direction. Figure 1 In the example shown, the vibration plate 22 is a cone shape. Figure 1 The example shown may also be a dome type.

[0032] Magnetic circuit 23 is a structure that generates a magnetic field. This magnetic field acts on the magnetic field from the voice coil fixed to diaphragm 22. Magnetic circuit 23 comprises permanent magnet 23a and yoke 23b. Permanent magnet 23a is a magnet such as a ferrite magnet or a neodymium magnet. Yoke 23b is made of a soft magnetic material and guides the magnetic flux from permanent magnet 23a to the voice coil. Therefore, the magnetic field from the voice coil generated by the sound signal acts on the magnetic field from magnetic circuit 23, causing diaphragm 22 to vibrate in response to the sound signal.

[0033] The driving device 10 has the functions of amplifying the sound signal included in the input signal and outputting the amplified sound signal to other speakers. These functions can drive other speakers. In addition to these functions, the driving device 10 of this embodiment also has the function of outputting an output signal based on the input signal input from the outside.

[0034] The driving device 10 includes a flange 11 , an input connector 12 , an output connector 13 , and an amplifier 14 .

[0035] Flange 11 is a component fixed to speaker unit 20 and mounted on panel 130 by screwing or the like. Flange 11 is fixed to speaker unit 20 by being integrally formed with frame 21 or by being joined to frame 21 by screwing or bonding or the like. Alternatively, flange 11 may be a part of speaker unit 20.

[0036] The flange 11 is arranged at a position in the X1 direction with respect to the panel 130 . Thus, the flange 11 is arranged in the space S1 between the panel 130 and the door trim 120 .

[0037] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, the flange 11 projects radially outward from a portion of the frame 21 of the speaker unit 20 at a predetermined distance from the end in the X1 direction in the X2 direction. Figure 2 As shown, the flange 11 has a plurality of holes 11a for screw fastening to the panel 130. Furthermore, the shape of the flange 11 is not limited to the example shown in the figure and is arbitrary. Furthermore, the method for fixing the speaker unit 20 to the panel 130 is not limited to screw fastening. In addition to screw fastening, for example, a method of providing threads along the periphery of the frame 21 and screwing them into the opening 131 of the panel 130, a method of fixing the flange 11 to the panel 130 using a separately prepared fastening tool, and the like can be cited.

[0038] The input connector 12 is a connector for electrically connecting to a device such as a host (not shown). An input signal is input to the input connector 12 from the device.

[0039] exist Figure 1and Figure 2 In the example shown, the input connector 12 is a male connector, and a female connector suitable for the male connector is connected to the input connector 12. In addition, the shape of the input connector 12 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The examples shown are arbitrary. In addition, the input connector 12 may be a female connector. Furthermore, the input connector 12 may also be composed of a plurality of connectors.

[0040] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the input connector 12 is fixed to the frame 21 by fitting, screw fastening or bonding, and is thereby supported on the speaker unit 20. The cable 15 extending from the input connector 12 fixed to the frame 21 as described above is connected to the amplifier 14 through a hole (not shown) provided in the frame 21. The hole is blocked by a gasket or the like. In addition, the input connector 12 is arranged on the front side of the speaker unit 20 relative to the flange 11. Thus, the input connector 12 is arranged on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel 130. In addition, in the case where the frame 21 is made of resin, the housing of the input connector 12 can be formed in a manner that is integrally molded with the frame 21. In this case, the pin of the input connector 12 can be used as an insert when performing the above-mentioned integral molding.

[0041] As described above, the input connector 12 is arranged in the space S1 inside the vehicle, which facilitates wiring for the connector connected to the input connector 12. Furthermore, by arranging the input connector 12 in the space S1 inside the vehicle, the waterproof function of the input connector 12 can be omitted.

[0042] The input signal input to the input connector 12 is input to the amplifier 14 via the cable 15. This input signal includes an audio signal. This audio signal can be either digital or analog. If the audio signal is digital, it can be a signal using, for example, an in-vehicle audio bus such as the A2B bus, which enables bidirectional communication via serial communication. In this case, the input signal can include signals other than the audio signal, such as control signals. These control signals may represent, for example, adjustment values ​​for the playback volume, left and right speaker volume balance, front and rear speaker volume balance, equalizer, or audio mode settings. Furthermore, in this case, the in-vehicle audio bus is connected to, for example, a host device associated with the drive device 10 and has the function of inputting and outputting audio signals and various control signals to and from the host device. Furthermore, the input signal can include a power signal for driving the amplifier 14. Furthermore, this power signal can be input to the amplifier 14 from an external input terminal of a different system from the input signal. Preferably, the external input terminal is located in the space S1 inside the vehicle. "A2B" is a registered trademark.

[0043] The output connector 13 is a connector electrically connected to at least one speaker unit (not shown) other than the speaker unit 20. An output signal from the amplifier 14 is output to the output connector 13.

[0044] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example shown, the output connector 13 is a male connector, and a female connector suitable for the male connector is connected to the output connector 13. In addition, the shape of the output connector 13 is not limited to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The examples shown are arbitrary. In addition, the output connector 13 may be a female connector. Furthermore, the output connector 13 may also be composed of a plurality of connectors.

[0045] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the output connector 13 is fixed to the frame 21 by fitting, screw fastening or bonding, and is thereby supported by the speaker unit 20. The cable 16 extending from the output connector 13 fixed to the frame 21 as described above is connected to the amplifier 14 through a hole (not shown) provided in the frame 21. The hole is blocked by a gasket or the like. In addition, the output connector 13 is arranged on the front side of the speaker unit 20 relative to the flange 11. Thus, the output connector 13 is arranged on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel 130. In addition, when the frame 21 is made of resin, the housing of the output connector 13 can be formed in a manner that is integrally molded with the frame 21. In this case, the pin of the output connector 13 can be used as an insert when performing the above-mentioned integral molding.

[0046] As described above, the output connector 13 is arranged in the space S1 inside the vehicle, which facilitates installation of wiring for connectors connected to the output connector 13. Furthermore, by arranging the output connector 13 in the space S1 inside the vehicle, the waterproof function of the output connector 13 can be omitted.

[0047] The output signal output from the output connector 13 is a signal output from the amplifier 14 via the cable 16, and is input to at least one speaker unit (not shown) other than the speaker unit 20. The output signal includes a sound signal. The sound signal can be a digital signal or an analog signal. In addition, the connector of an on-board audio bus such as the A2B bus that can perform bidirectional communication through serial communication can also be set at a position on the front side relative to the flange 11, which is different from the output connector 13. This different connector has, for example, a function of connecting to a lower device relative to the drive device 10 through the on-board audio bus and inputting and outputting various signals in both directions. The input and output signal can include a sound signal or a control signal that is the same as the control signal input through the input connector. The control signal can also include signal information of a microphone-sensor, etc. that is set separately.

[0048] The amplifier 14 is a component that processes the audio signal input via the input connector 12. The amplifier 14 of this embodiment has a function of amplifying the audio signal and a function of outputting an output signal based on the input signal.

[0049] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, amplifier 14 is fixed to frame 21 by fitting, screw fastening, or bonding, thereby being supported by speaker unit 20. Thus, input connector 12 is supported by speaker unit 20, and amplifier 14 can be added by mounting speaker unit 20 on panel 130 without requiring additional mounting components.

[0050] Furthermore, amplifier 14 is disposed on the rear side of speaker unit 20 relative to flange 11. Thus, amplifier 14 is disposed on the vehicle exterior relative to panel 130. Thus, amplifier 14 can be disposed relative to panel 130 by effectively utilizing space S2 on the vehicle exterior.

[0051] Amplifier 14 is electrically connected to input connector 12 via cable 15, and receives an input signal from input connector 12 via cable 15. Amplifier 14 is electrically connected to output connector 13 via cable 16, and outputs an output signal to output connector 13 via cable 16.

[0052] As described above, amplifier 14 outputs the output signal to output connector 13, thereby enabling expansion to increase the number of channels. Amplifier 14 may have a single channel or multiple channels. If amplifier 14 has multiple channels, expansion to increase the number of channels is possible. Furthermore, while outputting sound signals to other speaker units after expansion with amplifier 14, sound signals from an existing amplifier installed in a center console, for example, are input to speaker unit 20.

[0053] 1-2. Amplifier of the drive device

[0054] Figure 4 It is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which the amplifier 14 and the speaker unit 20 of the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment are separated. Figure 5 1 is an exploded perspective view of the amplifier 14 of the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 In the figure, the cables 15 and 16 are omitted for ease of observation.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, the driving device 10 is attached to the magnetic circuit 23 of the speaker unit 20. Here, the driving device 10 is joined to the speaker unit 20 by screw fastening with screws 18 or the like.

[0056] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the amplifier 14 has a substrate 14a and a housing 14b.

[0057] The substrate 14a is a circuit substrate. An amplifier circuit is provided on the substrate 14a. Although not shown in the figure, one end of the aforementioned cables 15 and 16 are electrically connected by solder or a connector. Figure 5 In the example shown, substrate 14a is arranged with its thickness oriented in the axial direction. Multiple electronic components 14a1 are mounted on the surface of substrate 14a facing the X1 direction. At least one of these multiple electronic components 14a1 constitutes an amplifier circuit that amplifies the sound signal included in the input signal. Furthermore, substrate 14a is provided with a hole 14g and multiple holes 14h. Figure 4 Screw 18 is shown passing through hole 14g. Figure 4 The screw 19 shown is passed through the hole 14h. In addition, the shape of the substrate 14a is not limited to Figure 5 The examples shown are arbitrary. In addition, the holes 14g and 14h are provided as needed and can also be omitted.

[0058] The housing 14b houses the substrate 14a. This allows the amplifier 14 to be waterproofed. Figure 5In the illustrated example, the housing 14b includes a first member 14b1 and a second member 14b2.

[0059] The first component 14b1 is a box-shaped component that is open in the X2 direction. A recess 14c and holes 14d and 14e are provided in the first component 14b1. At least a portion of the yoke 23b of the speaker unit 20 is accommodated in the recess 14c. Although not shown in the figure, the aforementioned cable 15 passes through the hole 14d. Although not shown in the figure, the aforementioned cable 16 passes through the hole 14e. Although not shown in the figure, screw holes that engage with a plurality of screws 19 are provided in the first component 14b1. In addition, the first component 14b1 is not limited to Figure 5 The example shown may be composed of two or more components.

[0060] The second member 14b2 is a plate-shaped member for sealing the internal space of the first member 14b1. Figure 4 The first member 14b1 is fastened with a plurality of screws 19. The second member 14b2 is provided with a hole 14i and a plurality of holes 14j. Figure 4 Screws 18 are shown extending through holes 14i. Figure 4 The screw 19 shown is passed through the hole 14j. In addition, from the perspective of improving the sealing performance of these joints, a sealing member such as an O-ring can be configured between the first component 14b1 and the second component 14b2. Figure 5 The example shown may be composed of two or more components.

[0061] The housing 14b described above preferably has electromagnetic shielding properties. This prevents adverse effects caused by electromagnetic waves from the speaker unit 20 to the amplifier 14, even when the amplifier 14 is placed close to the speaker unit 20. Furthermore, the electromagnetic shielding properties of the housing 14b eliminate the need for additional electromagnetic shielding within the housing 14b or within the speaker unit 20.

[0062] One or both of the first component 14b1 and the second component 14b2 have heat dissipation properties. Thus, the housing 14b has heat dissipation properties. Furthermore, the housing 14b is thermally connected to the electronic component 14a1 that constitutes the amplifier circuit. This allows heat from the amplifier circuit to be released from the housing 14b. As a result, overheating of the amplifier circuit can be prevented. Here, "thermal connection" means connecting two objects via a highly thermally conductive material such as thermal grease or a heat sink, or placing the two objects facing each other with a gap of 0.5 mm or less, in addition to direct contact between the two objects. Furthermore, to ensure proper heat dissipation by the housing 14b, heat dissipation fins may be provided on the outer surface of the housing 14b.

[0063] in addition, Figure 5The bottom surface of the recess 14c shown is formed by Figure 4 The heat sink 17 shown is thermally connected to the yoke 23b. As a result, the housing 14b and the yoke 23b are thermally connected. The heat sink 17 is a sheet member with high thermal conductivity made of a resin composition containing an inorganic filler. By using such a heat sink 17, the heat of the housing 14b can be effectively released to the yoke 23b. In addition, the housing 14b can be fixed to the speaker unit 20 via a mounting component, etc., or it can be integrally formed with the frame 21 of the speaker unit 20, or it can be integrally formed with the flange 11.

[0064] As described above, the housing 14b is thermally connected to the yoke 23b. This allows the yoke 23b to be effectively utilized as a heat sink to dissipate heat from the amplifier circuit. This makes it more suitable for preventing overheating of the amplifier circuit. Furthermore, thermal grease may be used instead of the heat sink 17. Furthermore, the heat sink 17 may be provided or omitted as needed. Alternatively, the housing 14b may be configured separately from the yoke 23b without being thermally connected. In this case, the housing 14b is secured to the frame 21, etc., using appropriate fixing components.

[0065] As described above, housing 14b includes recess 14c for accommodating yoke 23b. This allows for miniaturization in the thickness direction of acoustic device 1, a structure comprising drive device 10 and speaker unit 20. The width W of recess 14c is preferably greater than the width of yoke 23b.

[0066] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of achieving miniaturization in the thickness direction of the acoustic device 1 and thermally connecting the housing 14 b and the yoke 23 b , the depth d of the recess 14 c may be appropriately set.

[0067] The materials constituting each of the first component 14b1 and the second component 14b2 are not particularly limited, as long as they ensure the mechanical strength required to protect the components within the housing 14b. However, from the perspective of improving the heat dissipation of the housing 14b, materials with excellent thermal conductivity are preferred. For example, metal materials, ceramic materials, or resin compositions containing inorganic fillers or inorganic fibers are preferred. From the perspective of imparting electromagnetic shielding properties, soft magnetic metal materials or resin compositions containing soft magnetic fillers or fibers are more preferred. Furthermore, the housing 14b can be provided as needed or omitted. In this case, the substrate 14a can be attached to the yoke 23b directly or via a component with high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, in this case, waterproofing or electromagnetic shielding of the substrate 14a can be achieved as needed through other methods such as molding.

[0068] In the above-described audio device 1, the input connector 12 and amplifier 14 are supported by the speaker unit 20. Therefore, by mounting the speaker unit 20 relative to the panel 130, the amplifier 14 can be added without requiring additional mounting components. Furthermore, the amplifier 14 is located outside the vehicle relative to the panel 130, making it possible to effectively utilize the space S2 outside the vehicle relative to the panel 130. Furthermore, the input connector 12 is located inside the vehicle, making it easier to install the wiring used for the connector connected to the input connector 12. Furthermore, by locating the input connector 12 inside the vehicle, the waterproofing function of the input connector 12 can be omitted. As described above, the expansion associated with the addition of speakers and amplifier 14 can be simplified and reduced in cost.

[0069] 2. Second Implementation

[0070] In the following examples, elements having the same functions and effects as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted as appropriate.

[0071] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of an acoustic device 1A using a driving device 10A according to the second embodiment. The acoustic device 1A has the same configuration as the acoustic device 1 according to the first embodiment, except that the driving device 10A is replaced by the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment. The driving device 10A has the same configuration as the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment, except that the amplifier 14 according to the first embodiment is replaced by an amplifier 14A. Figure 6 In order to facilitate observation, the cables 15 and 16 are omitted. Figure 6 , for ease of explanation, the amplifier 14A is schematically shown.

[0072] The amplifier 14A includes a substrate 14m and a housing 14n. The substrate 14m is configured similarly to the substrate 14a of the first embodiment, except for a different shape. The housing 14n is configured similarly to the housing 14b of the first embodiment, except for a different shape.

[0073] The housing 14n has a through hole 14p extending therethrough in the axial direction and is annular. A yoke 23b is housed in the through hole 14p. The state in which the amplifier 14A is mounted on the speaker unit 20 is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

[0074] As described above, housing 14n has through-hole 14p for accommodating yoke 23b. This allows acoustic device 1, which is a structure composed of drive device 10A and speaker unit 20, to be miniaturized in the thickness direction.

[0075] It is preferable that the width W of the through hole 14 p is larger than the width of the yoke 23 b .

[0076] From the perspective of miniaturization of the acoustic device 1A in the thickness direction, the axial length of the through hole 14p, that is, the thickness t of the housing 14n, is preferably equal to or less than the protruding length of the yoke 23b.

[0077] According to the second embodiment described above, it is also possible to simplify and reduce costs in expansion accompanying the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0078] 3. Installation object

[0079] Figure 7 FIG1 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a vehicle door 100. Figure 7 As shown, the vehicle door 100 includes an outer panel 110, a door trim 120, a panel 130, the drive device 10, and a gasket 170. Alternatively, the vehicle door 100 may include a drive device 10A instead of the drive device 10.

[0080] The outer panel 110, the panel 130, and the door trim 120 are arranged in this order along the X1 direction. As described above, the outer panel 110 faces the outside of the vehicle and the door trim 120 is arranged on the inside of the vehicle, and the panel 130 is arranged between the outer panel 110 and the door trim 120. Figure 7 In the illustrated example, a frame 150 for the window glass 140 that is movable up and down is provided integrally with the outer panel 110 and the panel 130. The frame 150 may be omitted.

[0081] The outer panel 110 and the panel 130 are each formed of, for example, a steel plate. The outer edges of the outer panel 110 and the panel 130 are joined together by welding or the like. Furthermore, the outer panel 110 and the panel 130 are not limited to structures formed of steel plates and may be formed of, for example, an aluminum alloy or a carbon fiber composite material.

[0082] A space S2 is provided between the outer panel 110 and the panel 130. The space S2 is used as a sound box for the speaker unit 20. Although not shown, a window lift mechanism and a door lock mechanism for raising and lowering the window glass 140 are arranged in the space S2.

[0083] Panel 130 has an opening 131 and a plurality of openings 132. Opening 131 is blocked by speaker unit 20. Speaker unit 20 is secured to panel 130 by screws or the like. Each of openings 132 is a hole used, for example, for assembling the aforementioned lifting mechanism and door locking mechanism. Furthermore, at least one of openings 132 may be blocked by a sheet member made of a resin material or the like.

[0084] Door trim 120 is an interior trim made of, for example, resin. Door trim 120 has a plurality of holes 121. These holes 121 serve as pathways for sound from speaker unit 20 to be emitted into the interior of the vehicle. Alternatively, instead of having multiple holes 121, door trim 120 may have a single hole. Furthermore, holes 121 may be covered with a mesh material such as saran net.

[0085] The door trim 120 is detachably mounted to the panel 130 via a plurality of connecting members 160. Each connecting member 160 is, for example, a rivet or fastener made of resin. Each connecting member 160 has one end fixed to the door trim 120 and the other end inserted into a hole 133 in the panel 130.

[0086] A gasket 170 is disposed between the door trim 120 and the panel 130. The gasket 170 is an annular elastic component extending along the outer periphery of the door trim 120 or the panel 130. It seals the gap between the door trim 120 and the panel 130 while elastically deforming. The gasket 170 is made of, for example, a rubber material or a highly elastomer material. Alternatively, the gasket 170 may be made of a closed-cell foam.

[0087] Although not shown, a member such as sponge that can seal the speaker unit 20 without hindering the operation of the speaker unit 20 is inserted between the speaker unit 20 and the door trim 120. This prevents interference between sounds emitted from both sides of the diaphragm 22.

[0088] Panel 130 is the inner panel of the vehicle door. Therefore, space S2 is provided between panel 130 and outer panel 110 on the vehicle exterior relative to panel 130. Therefore, amplifier 14 can be installed using space S2. On the other hand, space S1 is provided between panel 130 and door trim 120 on the vehicle interior relative to panel 130. This facilitates installation of wiring for the connector connected to input connector 12. As described above, since panel 130 is the inner panel of the vehicle door, the effect of placing input connector 12 on the vehicle interior is significant.

[0089] In the above-described vehicle door 100 , the drive device 10 is provided, thereby enabling simplification and cost reduction in expansion accompanying the addition of speakers and amplifiers 14 .

[0090] 4. Modifications

[0091] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications described below are possible. In addition, the embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate.

[0092] 4-1. Modification 1

[0093] In the above-described embodiments, the flange 11 and the speaker unit 20 are integrated as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the flange 11 may be a separate body from the speaker unit 20 .

[0094] 4-2. Modification 2

[0095] In the above-described embodiments, the amplifiers 14 and 14A are separate from the speaker unit 20 . However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the amplifiers 14 and 14A may be integrated with the speaker unit 20 .

[0096] 4-3. Modification 3

[0097] In each of the aforementioned methods, the speaker units 20 are illustrated as being of a dynamic type, but are not limited thereto. The speaker units of the present invention may be of a conversion type, for example, a capacitor type (electrostatic type), a ribbon type, an ion type (discharge type), a magnetic type, a piezoelectric type, or the like.

[0098] 4-4. Modification 4

[0099] In the aforementioned embodiment, the drive device 10, 10A is mounted on the inner panel of a vehicle door, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. The panel to which the drive device 10, 10A is mounted can be any panel that separates the interior of the vehicle from the exterior of the vehicle, and is not limited to a vehicle door. For example, the panel can also be the hood or firewall (instrument panel) of the vehicle.

[0100] 5. Appendix

[0101] According to the above-described embodiments and modifications, for example, the following embodiments can be understood.

[0102] (Appendix 1) A first preferred example of the driving device of the present invention is a driving device that drives a speaker unit installed on a panel of a vehicle, the driving device comprising: an input connector that is arranged on an inner side of the vehicle relative to the panel and is supported by the speaker unit, and to which an input signal including a sound signal is input; and an amplifier that is arranged on an outer side of the vehicle relative to the panel and is supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0103] According to the above configuration, the input connector and amplifier are supported by the speaker unit. Therefore, by mounting the speaker unit relative to the panel, an amplifier can be added without requiring additional mounting components. Furthermore, the amplifier is located outside the vehicle relative to the panel, allowing for efficient installation of the amplifier relative to the panel while effectively utilizing the space outside the vehicle. Furthermore, since the input connector is located inside the vehicle, it is easier to install the wiring used for the connector that connects to the input connector. Furthermore, by locating the input connector inside the vehicle, the input connector's waterproofing function can be omitted. This simplifies and reduces the cost of expansion associated with the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0104] (Appendix 2) A second preferred example of the driving device of the present invention is a driving device that drives a speaker unit mounted on a panel of a vehicle, the driving device comprising: a flange fixed to the speaker unit and mounted on the panel; an input connector arranged on the front side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, to which an input signal including a sound signal is input; and an amplifier arranged on the back side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, to process the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0105] According to the above configuration, the input connector and amplifier are supported by the speaker unit. Therefore, by mounting the speaker unit relative to the panel, an amplifier can be added without requiring additional mounting components. Furthermore, the amplifier is located outside the vehicle relative to the panel, allowing for efficient installation of the amplifier relative to the panel while effectively utilizing the space outside the vehicle. Furthermore, since the input connector is located inside the vehicle, it is easier to install the wiring used for the connector that connects to the input connector. Furthermore, by locating the input connector inside the vehicle, the input connector's waterproofing function can be omitted. This simplifies and reduces the cost of expansion associated with the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0106] (Appendix 3) In a third aspect, which is a preferred example of the first or second aspect, the panel is an inner panel of a vehicle door. According to the above aspect, the effect of arranging the input connector on the vehicle interior side is significant.

[0107] (Appendix 4) In a fourth aspect, which is a preferred example of the third aspect, an output connector is further provided, which is disposed on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel and is supported by the speaker unit, and outputs an output signal based on the input signal, and the amplifier outputs the output signal toward the output connector. In the above aspect, expansion to increase the number of channels is possible.

[0108] (Appendix 5) In a fifth aspect, which is a preferred example of the fourth aspect, the output signal is a sound signal, and the output connector outputs the output signal toward another speaker unit. In the above aspect, another speaker can be driven.

[0109] (Appendix 6) In a sixth aspect, which is a preferred example of the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect, the amplifier has a plurality of channels. According to the above aspects, expansion to increase the number of channels is possible.

[0110] (Appendix 7) In the sixth aspect, which is a preferred example of any one of the first to sixth aspects, the amplifier includes a substrate on which an amplifier circuit is provided and a housing that houses the substrate. In the above aspect, a waterproof function can be added to the amplifier.

[0111] (Appendix 8) In an eighth aspect, which is a preferred example of the seventh aspect, the housing has electromagnetic shielding properties. In the above aspect, even if the amplifier is placed close to the speaker unit, adverse effects caused by electromagnetic waves from the speaker unit to the amplifier can be prevented.

[0112] (Appendix 9) In the eighth aspect, which is a preferred example of the seventh or eighth aspect, the housing has heat dissipation properties and is thermally connected to the electronic components that constitute the amplifier circuit. In this aspect, heat from the amplifier circuit can be dissipated through the housing. This prevents overheating of the amplifier circuit.

[0113] (Appendix 10) In the tenth aspect, which is a preferred example of the ninth aspect, the speaker unit includes a magnetic circuit including a yoke, and the housing is thermally connected to the yoke. In this aspect, the yoke can be effectively utilized as a heat sink to dissipate heat from the amplifier circuit. This makes it possible to more effectively prevent overheating of the amplifier circuit.

[0114] (Appendix 11) In the 11th aspect which is a preferred example of the 10th aspect, the housing has a recess or a through hole for accommodating the yoke. In the above aspect, it is possible to achieve miniaturization in the thickness direction of the structure consisting of the drive device and the speaker unit.

[0115] (Appendix 12) A twelfth embodiment of a preferred example of the audio device of the present invention comprises: the driving device of any one of the first to eleventh embodiments; and the speaker unit. In the above embodiment, a simplified and cost-effective audio device capable of expansion with the addition of speakers and amplifiers is provided.

[0116] (Appendix 13) A thirteenth embodiment, which is a preferred example of the vehicle door of the present invention, comprises: the drive device of any one of the first to eleventh embodiments; and the panel. In the above embodiments, a vehicle door is provided that is simplified and cost-effective, allowing expansion with the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0117] Description of the label

[0118] 1…Audio device, 1A…Audio device, 10…Drive device, 10A…Drive device, 11…Flange, 11a…Hole, 12…Input connector, 13…Output connector, 14…Amplifier, 14A…Amplifier, 14a…Substrate, 14a1…Electronic component, 14b…Casing, 14b1…First component, 14b2…Second component, 14c…Recess, 14d…Hole, 14e…Hole, 14g…Hole, 14h…Hole, 14i…Hole, 14j…Hole, 14m…Substrate, 14n…Casing, 14p…Through hole, 15…Cable, 16… Cable, 17…heat sink, 18…screw, 19…screw, 20…speaker unit, 21…frame, 22…diaphragm, 23…magnetic circuit, 23a…permanent magnet, 23b…yoke, 100…vehicle door, 110…outer panel, 120…door trim, 121…hole, 130…panel, 131…opening, 132…opening, 140…window glass, 150…frame, 160…connecting member, 170…gasket, 200…mounting object, AX…axis line, S1…space, S2…space, W…width, d…depth, t…thickness

Claims

1. A driving device for driving a speaker unit mounted on a panel of a vehicle. The driving device comprises: an input connector disposed on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, to which an input signal including a sound signal is input; and The amplifier is disposed on the vehicle exterior side relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal inputted via the input connector.

2. A driving device for driving a speaker unit mounted on a panel of a vehicle. The driving device comprises: a flange fixed to the speaker unit and mounted to the panel; an input connector disposed on the front side of the speaker unit relative to the flange, supported by the speaker unit, and receiving an input signal including a sound signal; as well as The amplifier is disposed on the rear side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input through the input connector.

3. The driving device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The panel is an inner panel of a door of a vehicle.

4. The driving device according to claim 3, wherein: An output connector is further provided, the output connector being arranged on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit and outputting an output signal based on the input signal. The amplifier outputs the output signal toward the output connector.

5. The driving device according to claim 4, wherein: The output signal is a sound signal, The output connector outputs the output signal toward other speaker units.

6. The driving device according to claim 4, wherein: The amplifier has multiple channels.

7. The driving device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The amplifier has: a substrate on which an amplifier circuit is disposed; and The housing accommodates the substrate.

8. The driving device according to claim 7, wherein: The housing has electromagnetic shielding properties.

9. The driving device according to claim 7, wherein: The housing has heat dissipation properties and is thermally connected to the electronic components constituting the amplifier circuit.

10. The driving device according to claim 9, wherein: The speaker unit has a magnetic circuit including a yoke, The housing is thermally connected to the yoke.

11. The driving device according to claim 10, wherein: The housing has a recess or a through hole for accommodating the yoke.

12. An audio device comprising: The driving device according to claim 1 or 2; and the speaker unit.

13. A vehicle door, comprising: The driving device according to claim 1 or 2; and said panel.

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