Sound system

Abstract

A sound system (300) is provided with: a sound source control device (340) that outputs a plurality of sound source group signals; and an amplifier (350) which has at least the same number of sound inputs (351) as the number of sound source group signals, and which drives the speaker (360) using the sound source group signals input to each of the sound inputs (351). A sound source control device (340) classifies sound sources (330), the number of which is larger than the number of sound source group signals, into a plurality of groups (331-333), and outputs sound source group signals for each group from the plurality of sound sources belonging to the group. The amplifier (350) determines the speaker (360) to be driven and the sound source group signal for driving each speaker (360) on the basis of the type of each sound source group signal and the setting of the sound field.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a sound system. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known an in-vehicle sound processing device that performs sound processing for simultaneously reproducing different sound sources in a vehicle interior space having a plurality of listening positions (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-170563 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0007] The in-vehicle audio processing device disclosed in Patent Document 1 receives inputs of sound source signals for the front seats and rear seats, and uses these signals to drive speakers within the vehicle cabin. Sound source signals are output from multiple sound sources. Therefore, the in-vehicle audio processing device must have the same number of sound source inputs as the number of sound sources, and control the speakers to be driven for all input sound source signals. This complicates the device's structure and the sound source signal processing system.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an audio system that reduces the number of sound inputs to an amplifier to simplify control of a speaker.

[0009] Solutions for solving problems

[0010] An audio system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a sound source control device that outputs multiple sound source group signals; and an amplifier that has at least the same number of sound inputs as the number of sound source group signals, and drives speakers using the sound source group signals input to each sound input. The sound source control device classifies a greater number of sound sources than the number of sound source group signals into multiple groups, and outputs a sound source group signal for each group, for each of the multiple sound sources belonging to the group. The amplifier determines which speakers to drive and the sound source group signal used to drive each speaker based on the category of each sound source group signal and the sound field settings.

[0011] Effects of the Invention

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide an audio system that reduces the number of sound inputs to an amplifier and simplifies control of a speaker. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1A1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a sound field control system 1000 including a sound field control device 100 and an acoustic system 300 according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 1B This is a flowchart showing an example of a sound field control method using the sound field control device 100 .

[0015] Figure 2 A display layout (part 1) of the touch panel 400 according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0016] Figure 3 Show representation Figure 2 Another display example of the layout diagram 220 showing the arrangement of seats.

[0017] Figure 4 The display layout (part 2) of the touch panel 400 according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0018] Figure 5 The display layout (part 3) of the touch panel 400 according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0019] Figure 6 The display layout (Part 4) of the touch panel 400 according to the first embodiment is shown.

[0020] Figure 7 A display layout (part 1) of a touch panel 400 according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0021] Figure 8 A display layout (part 2) of the touch panel 400 according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0022] Figure 9 A display layout (part 3) of the touch panel 400 according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0023] Figure 10 A display layout (Part 4) of the touch panel 400 according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0024] Figure 11 A display layout (Part 5) of the touch panel 400 according to the second embodiment is shown.

[0025] Figure 12 This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an acoustic system 300 according to the third embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13A 1 is a schematic diagram showing an image of a sound field formed in a vehicle cabin by audio system 300 for each sound field setting (part 1).

[0027] Figure 13BThis is a schematic diagram (part 2) showing an image of a sound field formed in a vehicle cabin by audio system 300 for each sound field setting.

[0028] Figure 14 It shows Figure 12 Schematic diagram of a specific example of multiple sound sources (Sound Source) 330, the groups (Stream) 331, 332, 333 to which each sound source 330 belongs, and the category (Category) to which each sound source 330 belongs.

[0029] Figure 15A It is through the identification number (1) to (45) that Figure 14 A portion (part 1) of a table in which combinations of the categories of the sound sources of the three groups (Main, Mix1, Mix2) are classified.

[0030] Figure 15B It is through the identification number (1) to (45) that Figure 14 A portion (part 2) of the table in which the combinations of the categories of the sound sources of the three groups (Main, Mix1, Mix2) are classified.

[0031] Figure 15C It is through the identification number (1) to (45) that Figure 14 A portion (part 3) of the table in which the combinations of the categories of the sound sources of the three groups (Main, Mix1, Mix2) are classified.

[0032] Figure 15D It is through the identification number (1) to (45) that Figure 14 A portion (part 4) of the table in which the combinations of the categories of the sound sources of the three groups (Main, Mix1, Mix2) are classified.

[0033] Figure 16 It shows Figures 15A to 15D A portion (1) of a correspondence table showing the correspondence between combinations of sound source categories classified by identification numbers (1) to (45) and groups of speakers to be driven and sound sources driving each speaker.

[0034] Figure 17 It shows Figures 15A to 15D A portion (part 2) of a correspondence table showing the correspondence between combinations of sound source categories classified by identification numbers (1) to (45) and groups of speakers to be driven and sound sources driving each speaker.

[0035] Figure 18 It shows Figures 15A to 15DA portion (part 3) of a correspondence table showing the correspondence between combinations of sound source categories classified by identification numbers (1) to (45) and groups of speakers to be driven and sound sources driving each speaker.

[0036] Figure 19 It shows Figures 15A to 15D A portion (4) of a correspondence table showing the correspondence between combinations of sound source categories classified by identification numbers (1) to (45) and groups of speakers to be driven and sound sources driving each speaker. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] (First embodiment)

[0038] The sound field control system 1000 according to the embodiment is a system that forms one or more sound fields in the interior space of a vehicle and controls the sound fields. The sound field (sound bubble) refers to the area in the vehicle where sound is heard. Sound includes sounds played from multiple sound sources. Figure 1A As shown, sound field control system 1000 includes an audio system 300 that generates a sound field by playing sound using multiple speakers, and a sound field control device 100 that controls the sound field of multiple sound sources in response to vehicle occupant operations. Sound field control system 1000 generates various sound fields within the vehicle cabin space based on the type of sound source and sound field settings.

[0039] The sound field control device 100 includes a touch panel 400 and a control unit 200. The touch panel 400 is an example of a display that is arranged in the vehicle cabin and displays information indicating the state of the sound field. The touch panel 400 has a function as a display and a function as an input device that accepts touch operations from the vehicle occupants. The control unit 200 can be implemented using a microcomputer having a CPU (central processing unit), a memory, and an input / output unit. A computer program (sound field control program) for causing the microcomputer to function as the control unit 200 is installed in the microcomputer and executed. Thus, the microcomputer functions as a plurality of information processing units included in the control unit 200. In addition, an example of implementing the control unit 200 by software is shown here, but of course dedicated hardware for performing each information processing can also be prepared to constitute the control unit 200. In addition, the plurality of information processing units included in the control unit 200 can also be constituted by separate hardware. It is also possible to realize the control unit 200 by connecting to the sound source control device 340 (see Figure 12 ) The control unit 200 is configured with the same hardware. The control unit 200 may also serve as an electronic control unit (ECU) used in other vehicle-related controls.

[0040] Reference Figure 1B, describes an example of a sound field control method using the sound field control device 100. The sound field control method is a process in which the control unit 200 operates according to a sound field control program. In step S01, the control unit 200 displays information indicating the current state of the sound field on the touch panel 400. Proceeding to step S02, the control unit 200 accepts a vehicle occupant's operation on the sound field. Specifically, it accepts a touch operation on the sound field setting screen displayed on the touch panel 400. After accepting the operation, the control unit 200 proceeds to step S03, where it controls the sound field according to the accepted operation. Specifically, the control unit 200 sends a signal indicating the sound field settings after the operation to the audio system 300. Upon receiving this signal, the audio system 300 determines the speakers to be driven and the sound source to drive each speaker based on the sound field settings after the operation, and then drives the speakers. The control unit 200 then proceeds to step S04, where it displays information indicating the state of the sound field after the control on the touch panel 400. The sound field control system 1000 forms various sound fields in the space inside the vehicle cabin according to the settings of the sound field after operation. By displaying information indicating the current state of the sound field on the touch panel 400, it is possible to visually grasp which sound source is being played at which listening position in the vehicle cabin. Therefore, the occupants can perform accurate sound field operations (step S02). In addition, in step S04, information indicating the state of the sound field after control is displayed on the touch panel 400. Thus, the occupants can also confirm accurate sound field operations (step S02). In this way, according to the sound field control device 100 and the sound control method, accurate and efficient sound field operations can be performed based on the occupants' visual grasp of the state of the sound field.

[0041] The third embodiment will be used to describe a specific example of the detailed structure and operation of audio system 300. In the first embodiment, the detailed structure and operation of audio system 300 are not particularly limited, and an existing audio system 300 capable of realizing an operated sound field in a vehicle cabin can be used.

[0042] Reference Figures 2 to 6 The display layout of the touch panel 400 and a specific method of operating the sound field according to the first embodiment will be described. Figures 2 to 6 is Figure 1BA specific example of "information indicating the state of the sound field" displayed on the screen of touch panel 400 disposed in the vehicle cabin in each of steps S01 and S04. The information indicating the state of the sound field includes information indicating the correspondence between seats in the vehicle cabin and the groups to which sound sources audible at those seats belong. Multiple sound sources are classified into groups whose number is smaller than the number of sound sources. By displaying information indicating the correspondence between seats in the vehicle cabin and the groups of sound sources audible at those seats on touch panel 400, passengers viewing touch panel 400 can visually understand which listening position or seat in the vehicle cabin is receiving which group of sound sources.

[0043] For example, Figure 2 As shown, the information representing the sound field includes a floor plan 220 showing the seating arrangement within the vehicle, and sound source icons 231, 232, and 233 superimposed on seats 221, 222, and 223 within floor plan 220, representing the groups of sound sources audible at seats 221, 222, and 223. Floor plan 220 is displayed from a perspective overlooking the entire vehicle from above. Passengers can intuitively understand the groups of sound sources audible at each of seats 221, 222, and 223 based on floor plan 220 and sound source icons 231, 232, and 233. In other words, they can intuitively grasp the groups of sound fields formed at each of seats 221, 222, and 223.

[0044] In the first embodiment, an example is shown in which the seats in the vehicle are divided into front seats 221 and 222 and rear seats 223 to operate and control the sound field. In addition, the front seats include a driver's seat 221 (left seat) and a passenger seat (right seat). Figure 2 As shown, a music icon 231 representing "Music" as one of the sound source groups, a phone icon 233 representing "Phone" as one of the sound source groups, and a navigation icon 232 representing "Navigation" (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "Navigation") as one of the sound source groups are superimposedly displayed on front seats 221 and 222. By observing this display, the occupant can understand that the sound played back from the sound sources belonging to the music, phone, and navigation groups is audible in front seats 221 and 222. In other words, they can understand that the sound field of the sound sources belonging to the music, phone, and navigation groups is formed in front seats 221 and 222.

[0045] Meanwhile, a music icon 231 is superimposedly displayed in rear seat 223. By observing this display, the passenger can understand that the sound played by the sound source belonging to the music group can be heard in rear seat 223. In other words, the passenger can understand that a sound field belonging to the sound source of the music group is formed in rear seat 223.

[0046] Alternatively, the screen of the touch panel 400 may display an input accepting unit 210 for accepting touch operations of the passenger on the touch panel 400, while displaying "information indicating the state of the sound field." The input accepting unit 210 may include, for example, a start switch 211, a sound field selection switch 212, and a phone selection switch 213. The passenger can operate the sound field by performing touch operations on the switches 211, 212, and 213. In addition, the passenger can understand the state of the sound field before and after the operation based on the state of the switches 211, 212, and 213. Therefore, the passenger can visually understand the state of the sound field through the input accepting unit 210 and perform accurate sound field operations.

[0047] The start switch 211 is connected to Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 The switch corresponding to the "Audio Zone Control" of the sound field control device 100 controls the start or stop. Every time the passenger performs a touch operation, the start and stop of the sound field control device 100 are switched. Figure 2 As shown, the state where the start switch 211 is located on the right side of the prescribed frame corresponds to the start state, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, the state where the start switch 211 is located to the left of the predetermined frame corresponds to the stopped state. The sound field control device 100 and the sound field control method display information indicating whether the sound field control device 100 is started or stopped (the start switch 211) on the touch panel 400, accept an operation to switch between starting and stopping the sound field control device 100, switch between starting and stopping the sound field control device 100 in accordance with the operation, and display the information indicating whether the sound field control device 100 is started or stopped (the start switch 211) after switching on the touch panel 400. This allows the passenger to visually grasp the activation state of the sound field control device 100 and accurately operate the sound field control device 100.

[0048] The sound field control device 100 receives the occupant's operation on the sound field and controls the sound field according to the operation, only when the sound field control device 100 is activated. Figure 2 In the activated state, information indicating the state of the sound field can also be displayed in color. Specifically, switches 211, 212, 213 and sound source icons 231, 232, 233 can also be displayed in color. This allows the occupants to intuitively understand that the sound field is in a state where it can be manipulated. On the other hand, Figure 4In the stopped state, information indicating the state of the sound field can also be displayed in gray. Specifically, switches 211, 212, 213 and sound source icons 231, 232, 233 can be grayed out. This allows passengers to intuitively understand that the sound field is inoperable. Alternatively, it is possible to switch only one of switches 211, 212, 213 and sound source icons 231, 232, 233, or switch the color of only some of switches 211, 212, 213 and some of sound source icons 231, 232, 233.

[0049] The sound field selection switch 212 is connected to Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 An example of displaying the first sound field and the second sound field in a switchable manner corresponding to the "Audio Zone Selection" of the vehicle, wherein the first sound field is a sound field in which sound can be heard at all seats 221, 222, and 223 in the vehicle, and the second sound field is a sound field in which sound can be heard at the driver's seat 221 and the front passenger seat 222 in the vehicle, but sound cannot be heard at the rear seat 223 in the vehicle. Whenever the passenger touches the sound field selection switch 212, the first sound field and the second sound field are switched. Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, in the state of the first sound field, the sound field selection switch 212 is displayed as "ALL", as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the sound field selection switch 212 is displayed as “FRONT” in the state of the second sound field. Figure 2 、 Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the sound field selection switch 212 shows the state of the sound field (ALL / FRONT). Therefore, the passenger can visually grasp the current or after-operation state of the sound field according to the state of the sound field selection switch 212, and can accurately operate the sound field. In addition, the display of the sound source icons 231, 232, and 233 in the layout diagram 220 can also change in conjunction with the state of the sound field selection switch 212. Specifically, it can also be, for example Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, in the state of the first sound field (ALL), sound source icons 231 and 233 are displayed in a superimposed manner in the rear seat 223 .

[0050] On the other hand, it can also be, Figure 6As shown, in the second sound field state (FRONT), a mute icon 235 is displayed in rear seat 223, indicating that no sound can be heard, i.e., in a mute state where no sound field is formed. This allows passengers to intuitively understand that the vehicle is in a mute state where no sound field is formed. Alternatively, instead of mute icon 235, no sound source icon may be displayed in rear seat 223. Furthermore, regardless of the sound source group, sound field selector switch 212 switches between the first and second sound fields for all sound source groups.

[0051] On the other hand, the telephone selection switch 213 is connected to Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 The switch corresponding to "Phone Zone Selection" switches the sound field of the sound source belonging to the phone between the first sound field and the second sound field, wherein the first sound field is a sound field in which the sound of the sound source belonging to the phone can be heard at all seats 221, 222, and 223, and the second sound field is a sound field in which the sound of the sound source belonging to the phone can be heard at the driver's seat 221 and the front passenger seat 222 in the vehicle and cannot be heard at the rear seat 223 in the vehicle. Figure 2 As shown, in the case where the sound field of the sound source belonging to the telephone is the second sound field, the telephone selection switch 213 is displayed as "FRONT", as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 2 , when the sound field of the sound source belonging to the phone is the first sound field, the phone selection switch 213 is displayed as "ALL". The phone selection switch 213 shows the state of the sound field (ALL / FRONT), so the passenger can visually confirm the state of the sound field of the sound source belonging to the phone based on the phone selection switch 213. In addition, the display of the sound source icons 231, 232, and 233 in the layout diagram 220 can also change in conjunction with the state of the phone selection switch 213. Specifically, it can also be, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, when the first sound field (ALL) is selected by the phone selection switch 213, the phone icons 233 are displayed superimposed on both the front seat and the rear seat 223. Figure 2 As shown, when the second sound field (FRONT) is selected by the phone selection switch 213, the phone icon 233 is displayed superimposed on the front seats 221 and 222, but the phone icon 233 is not displayed on the rear seat 223. Figure 2 In FIG, since the first sound field (ALL) is selected by the sound field selection switch 212, a music icon 231 is superimposedly displayed in the rear seat 223. Figure 6 In the example, since the second sound field (FRONT) is selected by the sound field selection switch 212, the second sound field (FRONT) can only be selected by the telephone selection switch 213. In this case, it is also possible to Figure 6As shown, when the second sound field (FRONT) is selected by the sound field selection switch 212, the telephone selection switch 213 is displayed in gray. This allows the occupant to intuitively understand that the sound field in which the sound source of the telephone cannot be operated.

[0052] like Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the information indicating the state of the sound field may also include an article 240 for explaining the correspondence between the seats 221, 222, 223 in the vehicle and the groups to which the sound sources audible at the seats 221, 222, 223 belong. Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the content of article 240 changes according to the state of the sound field. Figure 2 In the state of the sound field shown, a text 240 such as "In the front seat, you can listen to the sounds of music, navigation, and phone calls. In the back seat, only music is available." is displayed on the screen of the touch panel 400. Figure 4 The following article displays "The sound field control device is stopped. To control the sound field, please use the sound control menu or start the sound field control device." 240. Figure 5 The article 240 shows that "the front seat can listen to the sound of the sound source of music, navigation and phone. The rear seat can listen to music and phone." Figure 6 The text 240 is displayed, such as "Sounds from music, navigation, and phone calls can be heard in the front seat. Sounds from all sources cannot be heard in the rear seat." The occupants can visually grasp the current or post-operation state of the sound field based on the content of the text 240, thereby accurately manipulating the sound field.

[0053] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 2 , an animation 234 showing a ripple expansion may be displayed around the sound source icon that is playing the sound. Specifically, an animation 234 showing the outer edge of the space where the sound is diffused may be displayed around the sound source icons 231, 232, and 233 that are actually playing the sound from the speakers. The passenger can intuitively recognize the group of sound sources during playback. The animation 234 may also be displayed, for example, on the Figure 2 The three icons 231, 232, and 333 displayed on the front seats 221 and 222 are displayed separately. Alternatively, the three icons 231, 232, and 333 can be treated as a single icon, with animation 234 displayed around it. Furthermore, animation 234 can be controlled to play only when the vehicle is stopped and not displayed while the vehicle is moving. This helps maintain the driver's attention while the vehicle is moving.

[0054] In the first embodiment, the sound field of the navigation sound source is not the target of operation and control. However, it can be the target of operation and control in the same way as the sound field of the sound source of other groups such as music and telephone.

[0055] (Second embodiment)

[0056] In the second embodiment, an example of switching the sound field in the vehicle cabin between a first sound field and a third sound field is described, wherein the first sound field is a sound field in which sound can be heard at all seats in the vehicle cabin, and the third sound field is a sound field in which sound can be heard at the driver's seat but cannot be heard at seats other than the driver's seat, that is, the passenger seat and the back seat. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The structure of the sound field control device 100 and the process of the sound field control method are the same as those of the first embodiment, and therefore repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0057] Reference Figures 7 to 11 The display layout of the touch panel 400 and the specific method of operating the sound field according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 7 As shown, information indicating the state of the sound field is displayed on the screen of touch panel 400. As examples of information indicating the state of the sound field, the screen of touch panel 400 displays a layout diagram 220 with a sound source icon superimposed thereon, an input receiving unit 210, and an article 240. Input receiving unit 210 includes a start switch 211, a sound field selection switch 212, and a phone selection switch 213. The operation of start switch 211 and sound field selection switch 212, as well as article 240, is the same as in the first embodiment, and therefore repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0058] The second embodiment illustrates an example of operating and controlling the sound field by categorizing the seats within the vehicle into three groups: the driver's seat 221 (left seat), the passenger seat 222 (right seat), and the rear seat 223. In the layout diagram 220, various sound source icons are superimposed on the driver's seat 221, the passenger seat 222, and the rear seat 223. Furthermore, the driver's seat 221, the passenger seat 222, and the rear seat 223 are each colored differently, and the sound source icons are also colored similarly to the seat colors. This allows for intuitive understanding of the different sound fields formed at the three seats.

[0059] Telephone selection switch 213 is connected to Figures 7 to 11The phone selection switch 213 switches the sound field for phone calls between the first and third sound fields. In the first sound field, the sound from the phone can be heard from all seats 221, 222, and 223. In the third sound field, the sound from the phone can be heard from the driver's seat 221, but not from the passenger seat 222 or rear seat 223.

[0060] like Figure 7 and Figure 11 As shown, in the case where the sound field of the sound source belonging to the telephone is the third sound field, the telephone selection switch 213 is displayed as "DRIVER", as shown in FIG. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, when the sound field of the sound source of the phone call is the first sound field, phone selector switch 213 displays "ALL." Each time the passenger touches sound field selector switch 212, the first sound field and the third sound field are switched. Phone selector switch 213 displays the sound field status (ALL / DRIVER). This allows the passenger to visually understand the state of the sound field of the sound source of the phone call and accurately control the sound field of the sound source of the phone call.

[0061] In addition, the display of the telephone icon 233 in the layout diagram 220 can also be changed in conjunction with the state of the telephone selection switch 213. Specifically, it can also be, for example Figure 9 As shown, when the first sound field (ALL) is selected by the phone selection switch 213, the phone icons 233 are superimposed and displayed on the driver's seat 221, the passenger seat 222 and the rear seat 223. Figure 7 As shown, when the third sound field (DRIVER) is selected using the phone selection switch 213, a phone icon 233 is superimposedly displayed on the driver's seat 221, and a phone mute icon 33N indicating that the sound source of the phone cannot be heard, that is, indicating that a sound field of the sound source of the phone is not formed, is displayed on the passenger seat 222 and the rear seat 223. Alternatively, instead of displaying the phone mute icon 33N, any phone-related icons 233 and 33N may not be displayed on the passenger seat 222 and the rear seat 223.

[0062] In addition, Figure 7 and Figure 9 The sound field selection switch 212 shown in the figure shows "ALL", so the sound field is formed in all seats in the vehicle. Therefore, music icons 231 are superimposed and displayed on the driver's seat 221, the passenger seat 222 and the rear seat 223. Figure 10 and Figure 11The sound field selection switches 212 shown in the figure all display "FRONT", so the sound field is formed in the front seats in the vehicle cabin, that is, the driver's seat 221 and the passenger seat 222, but not in the rear seat 223. Figure 6 As shown, the phone selection switch 213 is a switch for switching between the front seat and all seats. Therefore, when the second sound field (FRONT) is selected by the sound field selection switch 212, the phone selection switch 213 cannot be operated. However, in the second embodiment, the phone selection switch 213 is a switch for switching between the driver's seat and all seats. Therefore, as Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, even if the second sound field (FRONT) is selected by the sound field selection switch 212, the telephone selection switch 213 can be operated. However, the sound field selection switch 212 takes precedence over the telephone selection switch 213, so Figure 10 As shown, even if the second sound field (FRONT) is selected by the sound field selection switch 212 and the first sound field (ALL) is selected by the phone selection switch 213, the sound field of the sound source belonging to the phone is formed in the driver's seat 221 and the passenger seat 222 but not in the rear seat 223.

[0063] like Figure 8 As shown, when the start switch 211 is in the stop position and the sound field control device 100 is in a stopped state, information indicating the state of the sound field can also be displayed in gray. Specifically, the switches 211, 212, 213 and the sound source icons 231, 232, 233 can be grayed out. This allows the occupant to intuitively understand that the sound field is inoperable. Furthermore, it is also possible to switch only one of the switches 211, 212, 213 and the sound source icons 231, 232, 233, or to switch the color of only some of the switches 211, 212, 213 and the sound source icons 231, 232, 233.

[0064] In addition, in the second embodiment, the sound field of the sound source belonging to the navigation is not the object of operation. The sound of the sound source belonging to the navigation is output toward the driver, such as the guidance sound related to the route guidance. Figures 7 to 11 As shown, the navigation icon 232 is displayed superimposed on the driver's seat 221, but not on the passenger seat 222 and the rear seat 223. However, the sound fields of sound sources belonging to other groups such as music and telephone calls may be operated and controlled in the same manner.

[0065] As described above, the first and second embodiments are described, but the description and drawings forming part of this disclosure should not be construed as limiting the invention. Various alternative embodiments, examples, and operational techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure.

[0066] While the sound sources are shown as belonging to groups including music, navigation, and phone, other sound sources may also belong to groups other than these. Furthermore, layout diagram 220 shows an example of displaying sound source icons, which indicate the sound source group forming the sound field at each seat. This is not limiting; instead of displaying sound source icons, an animation such as a color, pattern, or ripple identifying the sound source group may be added to the seat. Alternatively, characters identifying the sound source group, such as "MUSIC," "NAV," "NAVI," "PHONE," or "PHONE," may be superimposed on the seat.

[0067] A switch for selecting a fourth sound field may be displayed on touch panel 200. This switch is a sound field in which the driver's seat 221 in the vehicle cabin can hear sounds from all sound sources, while seats 222 and 223 in the vehicle cabin other than the driver's seat 221 cannot hear sounds from all sound sources. The switch can be operated by the passenger to select the fourth sound field. Thus, the passenger can select the fourth sound field in the vehicle cabin.

[0068] The sound field control device 100 can also pick up the speech of a passenger seated in a seat unable to hear the sound source of their own phone call, and based on the results of voice recognition of the speech, switch the sound field so that the voice can be heard in the previously inaudible seat. The sound field control device 100 can also display information indicating the status of the switched sound field on the touch panel 200. For example, a microphone is installed in the vehicle cabin to pick up the speech of a passenger seated in the passenger seat 222 or the rear seat 223. The control unit 200 uses existing voice recognition technology to recognize the passenger's speech picked up by the microphone. For example, if the recognized speech contains predetermined keywords such as "phone," "talk," "want to join," or "want to talk together," the control unit 200 determines that the passenger intends to join the call. In this case, the control unit 200 switches the sound field so that the previously inaudible seat can hear the voice without waiting for a touch operation. The sound field control device 100 can control the sound field according to the passenger's intention to join the call. In addition, the occupants can visually grasp the state of the controlled sound field.

[0069] In the first and second embodiments described above, the touch panel 400 is used as an example of a display, and the touch operation on the touch panel 400 is used as an example of the operation of the sound field by the vehicle occupants. However, the display that displays information indicating the state of the sound field may also be a display that does not function as a position input device such as a touchpad. In this case, instead of touching the touch panel 400, the occupants can operate the sound field using their own voice using known voice recognition technology, or other input devices installed in the vehicle, such as steering switches or switches on the instrument panel. In other words, the sound field control device 100 can also accept sound field operations based on the occupants' voices or other input devices.

[0070] (Third embodiment)

[0071] In the third embodiment, the Figure 1A The illustrated sound field control system 1000 includes an example of the configuration and operation of the audio system 300. The audio system 300 generates a sound field in the vehicle cabin by using multiple speakers to produce sound based on the sound field settings determined by the occupant's operation received by the sound field control device 100.

[0072] Reference Figure 12 The structure of an audio system 300 according to a third embodiment will be described. Audio system 300 includes a sound source control device 340 and an amplifier 350. Sound source control device 340 outputs multiple sound source group signals. Amplifier 350 has at least the same number of sound inputs 351 as the number of sound source group signals, and uses the sound source group signals input to each sound input 351 to drive multiple speakers 360 mounted in the vehicle. Sound source control device 340 classifies sound sources 330, which are greater in number than the number of sound source group signals, into multiple groups 331 to 333, which are the same number as the number of sound source group signals. For each of the groups 331 to 333, the sound source signals output by the multiple sound sources 330 belonging to each group 331 to 333 are output as sound source group signals. Amplifier 350 determines which speakers 360 to drive and the sound source group signals used to drive each speaker 360 based on the type of each sound source group signal and the sound field settings within the vehicle cabin. Multiple speakers 360 each convert the sound source group signals received from amplifier 350 into sound and output it. In the third embodiment, "sound field" refers to the area within the vehicle cabin where the sound broadcast from multiple speakers 360 is heard. The sound field is formed over the entire vehicle cabin or a portion thereof. Furthermore, two or more sound fields with different sound sources can be formed simultaneously.

[0073] Sound source group signals, which are fewer in number than sound sources 330, are input to audio input 351 of amplifier 350. Based on the type of each sound source group signal and the sound field settings, amplifier 350 determines which speakers 36-1 to 36-N to drive and which sound source group signals to use to drive each speaker 36-1 to 36-N. Therefore, the number of sound inputs to amplifier 350 is fewer than the number of sound sources 330, simplifying amplifier 350's control of multiple speakers 360. N represents the number of speakers and is a natural number greater than 2.

[0074] In the third embodiment, the number of components is exemplified as follows. Sound source control device 340 outputs three sound source group signals. Sound source control device 340 classifies sound sources 330 into three groups 331 to 333, the same number as the sound source group signals. Amplifier 350 has three sound inputs 351, the same number as the sound source group signals.

[0075] <Count of signal and sound input>

[0076] The counting of the number of sound source group signals and sound inputs 351 will be explained. If sound source 330 is a monaural sound source, its playback sound is monaural, and the waveform of the signal generated from one sound source 330 is one. On the other hand, when stereo sound sources (including two-channel stereo, binaural, surround sound, quadraphonic, 5.1-channel stereo, etc.) are used for stereo playback, the waveform of the signal generated from one sound source 330 may be two or more. However, in the present disclosure, the number of sound source group signals is counted based on the differences in the sound sources that generate the sound source group signals, regardless of the differences in their waveforms. That is, if the signals have different waveforms but the same sound source generates them, these signals are counted as one sound source group signal. Accordingly, the number of sound inputs 351 that receive the sound source group signals is also counted based on the differences in the sound sources that generate the input signals, regardless of the differences in their waveforms. For example, when signals generated by the same sound source, though having different waveforms, are input to two or more independent terminals included in the amplifier 350 , the two or more sound input terminals are counted as one sound input 351 .

[0077] <Hardware Structure of Amplifier and Sound Source Control Device>

[0078] The amplifier 350 may also include a control unit 352. The control unit 352 may also constitute an information processing unit that determines the speaker 360 to be driven and the sound source group signal for driving each speaker 36-1 to 36-N based on the type of each sound source group signal and the setting of the sound field. Specifically, the control unit 352 can be implemented using a microcomputer including a CPU (central processing unit), a memory, and an input / output unit. A computer program (speaker control program) for causing the microcomputer to function as the control unit 352 is installed in the microcomputer and the program is executed. As a result, the microcomputer functions as the control unit 352. In addition, an example of implementing the control unit 352 by software is shown here, but of course, dedicated hardware for performing information processing can also be prepared to constitute the control unit 352. In addition, the control unit 200 can also be used as an electronic control unit (ECU) used in other vehicle-related controls.

[0079] In addition to sending the sound source group signal to the amplifier 350, the sound source control device 340 also sends a signal indicating the category of each sound source group signal and a signal indicating the sound field setting to the amplifier 350. The amplifier 350, for example, the control unit 352 of the amplifier 350, determines the speaker to be driven and the sound source group signal used to drive each speaker based on the signal indicating the category of each sound source group signal and the signal indicating the sound field setting received from the sound source control device 340. The amplifier 350 can determine the speaker 360 to be driven and the sound source group signal used to drive each speaker 36-1 to 36-N based on the signal received from the sound source control device, thereby simplifying the control of the speaker 360 by the amplifier 350. In addition, the sound source control device 340 can also transfer the signal received from the sound source control device to the amplifier 350. Figure 1A The control unit 200 of the sound field control device 100 receives a signal indicating the setting of the sound field. Figure 1B In step S03 , the sound source control device 340 may receive a signal indicating the sound field setting after the operation from the control unit 200 and transfer the signal to the amplifier 350 .

[0080] Like control unit 352, sound source control device 340 can be implemented using a microcomputer equipped with a CPU (central processing unit), memory, and input / output units, or dedicated hardware for performing various information processing functions. Sound source control device 340 can also serve as an electronic control unit (ECU) used for other vehicle-related control functions.

[0081] (Specific example of sound source)

[0082] A specific example of multiple sound sources 330 and an in-vehicle infotainment system (IVI) will be described. Multiple sound sources 330 are classified into three groups 331 to 333. Group 331 is a music group. Sound sources belonging to music group 331 include a first tuner, a second tuner, ..., a first external input, a second external input, .... Examples of the first tuner, the second tuner, ... include various radio tuners and TV tuners, including an AM tuner, an FM tuner, and an XM tuner. Furthermore, examples of the first external input, the second external input, ... include music playback from a portable music player (Mobile Music Player), music streaming (Wireless Audio Streaming), and music playback from an application installed on a smartphone or mobile phone. The portable music player (Mobile Music Player), smartphone, and mobile phone are connected to a sound source control device 340 mounted in the vehicle by wire using a specified connection cable, or wirelessly via short-range wireless communication or a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

[0083] Group 332 is the navigation group. Sound sources belonging to group 332 include a first navigation system, a second navigation system, and so on. Examples of the first navigation system, the second navigation system, and so on include voice guidance from a navigation device installed in the vehicle, and voice guidance from a navigation application installed on a passenger's portable communication terminal such as a smartphone. The passenger's portable communication terminal is connected to the vehicle-mounted sound source control unit 340 either by wired connection using a specified connection cable or wirelessly via short-range wireless communication or a wireless LAN (local area network).

[0084] Group 333 is a telephone group. Sound sources belonging to group 333 of telephones include a first call, a first call, a second call, a second call, etc. Examples of the first call, the first call, the second call, the second call, etc. include a call using the vehicle's telephone system, the call sound in the telephone system, a call using a call application installed on a passenger's portable communication terminal, and the call sound in the call application.

[0085] Sound source signals can be output from each of the aforementioned sound sources 330. The sound source control device 340 receives these sound source signals and outputs the sound source signals output by the multiple sound sources 330 belonging to each group 331 to 333 as sound source group signals. In the event that multiple sound sources within the same group simultaneously output sound source signals, the sound source control device 340 can also handle this as follows. The sound source control device 340 can also output, as the sound group signal, a representative sound source signal output by the sound source 330 with the highest priority among the sound source signals simultaneously output by the multiple sound sources 330 belonging to the same group 331 to 333. This can reduce the number of sound inputs to the amplifier 350 and suppress the mixing of sounds simultaneously broadcast from multiple sound sources. The priority relationship between the multiple sound sources 330 belonging to the same group 331 to 333 is predetermined, and the sound source control device 340 can store data indicating this priority relationship for each group 331 to 333.

[0086] The plurality of sound sources 330 and the sound source control device 340 are sometimes collectively referred to as an in-vehicle infotainment system 310. The in-vehicle infotainment system 310 is an information and communication system that provides both information and entertainment. For example, the vehicle-mounted sound sources 330 and the sound source control device 340, including tuners and telephone systems, in addition to external inputs from smartphones, may be housed in a single housing.

[0087] <Sound field formed in the vehicle cabin>

[0088] Reference Figure 13A and Figure 13B The sound field formed in the vehicle cabin by audio system 300 will be described for each sound field setting. Arrow FD indicates the straight-ahead direction of the vehicle. Figure 13A and Figure 13B The upper layer indicates that the sound field selection is for all seats, that is, the sound field selection switch 212 is “ALL”. Figure 13A and Figure 13B The lower layer indicates the case where the sound field selection is the front seat, that is, the sound field selection switch 212 is “FRONT”.

[0089] First, the sound field is set as Figure 7 The following describes the case where the settings are shown: the sound field selection switch 212 is set to "ALL" and the telephone selection switch 213 is set to "DRIVER". Figure 7 The sound field selection switch 212 is set to "ALL" and Figure 13A and Figure 13BThe sound field is selected to correspond to all seats. Therefore, for example, when the sound source belonging to music group 331 is played, a music sound field 110 is formed in an area within the vehicle cabin that includes all seats, namely the driver's seat, the front passenger seat, and the rear seats. In sound field 110, the sound of the sound source belonging to music group 331 can be heard.

[0090] While music sound field 110 is being formed, when a sound source belonging to group 333 of telephone calls, such as a call, is played, a new telephone sound field 130 is formed in the area of ​​the vehicle cabin that includes the driver's seat (left seat). At this time, because the sound source belonging to group 331 of music continues to be played, music sound fields 112 and 113 are simultaneously formed in areas other than the driver's seat, including the passenger seat and rear seats. Thus, when phone selector switch 213 is in the "DRIVER" position, i.e., when set to "Call Routing: On," audio system 300 forms sound field 130 of the telephone sound source in a limited area of ​​the vehicle cabin, in this case, the area including the driver's seat. Simultaneously, music sound fields 112 and 113 are formed in other areas of the vehicle cabin. In each sound field 130, 112, and 113, the sounds of the music and telephone sound sources are heard without mixing.

[0091] Next, the sound field is set as Figure 9 The sound field selection switch 212 is set to "ALL", and the telephone selection switch 213 is set to "ALL". Figure 13A 's "Call Routing: None" setting. In this case, the sound source for phone calls takes precedence over the sound source for music. Specifically, a sound field 131 for the phone calls is formed in the area within the vehicle that includes all seats, while a sound field for the music source is not formed. Thus, when playback of the sound source belonging to phone group 333 begins while music sound field 110 is formed, the entire vehicle interior switches from music sound field 110 to phone sound field 131.

[0092] Next, the sound field of the navigation sound source will be described. When the sound source belonging to the navigation group 332, such as the voice guide, is played in a state where the music sound field 110 is formed, as shown in FIG. Figure 13BAs shown, a new navigation sound field 120 is formed in the area of ​​the vehicle cabin that includes the driver's seat (left seat). At this time, since the playback of the sound sources belonging to group 331 for music continues, music sound fields 112 and 113 are simultaneously formed in the areas other than the driver's seat that include the front passenger seat and the rear seat. In this way, the sound field 120 of the sound sources belonging to group 332 for navigation is formed in the area that includes the driver's seat, but not in the areas other than the driver's seat that include the front passenger seat and the rear seat. The audio system 300 simultaneously forms sound fields 120, 112, and 113 for different groups of music and navigation sound sources. In each sound field 120, 112, and 113, the sounds of the music and navigation sound sources are heard without mixing with each other.

[0093] In the above description, the navigation sound field 120 and the telephone sound field 130 are formed in the same area including the driver's seat. In the case where the sound source belonging to the navigation group 332 conflicts with the sound source belonging to the telephone group 333, that is, when the navigation and telephone sound fields are formed at the same time, either one may be given priority over the other. For example, Figure 13B The upper right side of the image shows images of navigation and phone sound fields 120 and 133 formed when the phone takes priority over the navigation. Alternatively, phone sound field 133 can be formed in an area close to the occupant's ear, while navigation sound field 120 is formed in an area surrounding sound field 133. This allows the navigation and phone sound fields to be formed without mixing, allowing the occupant to hear the sounds of the phone and navigation sound sources in their respective sound fields 133 and 120 without mixing with each other.

[0094] Figure 13A and Figure 13B The sound field is selected for the front seat. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The sound field selector switch 212 shown is in the "FRONT" position. Therefore, when the sound source belonging to group 331 for music is played, a music sound field 111 is formed in the area of ​​the vehicle cabin that includes the front seats, i.e., the driver's seat and the passenger seat, but no sound field is formed in the area that includes the rear seats. In sound field 111, the sound of the sound source belonging to group 331 for music is heard. Furthermore, regarding the aforementioned "Call Routing: Yes," "Call Routing: No," the sound field 120 for the navigation sound source, and the conflict between the navigation sound field 120 and the phone sound field 130, this differs from the case where the sound field selection is for all seats in that a sound field is not formed in the rear seats. However, since the other aspects are common, further explanation is omitted.

[0095] <Sound Source Group (Stream) and Sound Source Category (Category)>

[0096] Reference Figure 14Specific examples of the groups (Stream) 331, 332, and 333 to which each sound source 330 belongs, and the categories (Category) to which each sound source 330 belongs are described. All sound sources 330 are classified into one of group (Main) 331, group (Mix1) 332, and group (Mix2) 333. Group (Main) 331 is a music group, group (Mix1) 332 is a navigation group, and group (Mix2) 333 is a phone group.

[0097] All sound sources are categorized into multiple categories. A sound source category is set for each of groups 331, 332, and 333. For example, sound source 330 in group 331 (music) is categorized as Entertainment, TA (Traffic Announcement), Auto DJ, e-Call, or Other. Sound source 330 in group 332 (navigation) is categorized as Normal-NAVI, Special-NAVI, or SPI-NAVI. The sound source 330 belonging to the telephone group 333 is classified into any one of Wireless-TEL (wireless call), Wireless-TEL RING (wireless telephone call), SPI-TEL (special call), SPI-TEL RING (special telephone call), APP-TEL (smartphone call), APP-TEL RING (smartphone telephone call), Normal-VR (Voicerecognition), SPI-VR, Enhanced-VR, and other (OTHER). Figure 14 The illustrated sound sources 330 , their groups, and their types are examples and do not limit the invention.

[0098] <Correspondence between category combinations and identification numbers>

[0099] Figures 15A to 15D It is through identification numbers (1) to (45) that Figure 14 A table that classifies the combinations of the categories of the sound sources of the three groups (Main, Mix1, Mix2). Figures 15A to 15D The combinations of the categories of the music group (Main) 331 and the categories of the phone group (Mix2) 333 are shown. Figures 15A to 15D The categories of the navigation group (Main) 332 (None, Normal-NAVI, Special-NAVI, SPI-NAVI) are shown respectively. Figures 15A to 15DCombined, a three-dimensional table is formed to represent all combinations of categories belonging to the three groups (Main, Mix1, Mix2). For example, Figure 15B The identification number (28) shown indicates a combination of any category among Entertainment, TA (Trafficannouncement), and Auto DJ of the group (Main), the category (Normal-NAVI) of the group (Mix1), and any category among Normal-VR and SPI-VR of the group (Mix2).

[0100] In addition, "None" or "NONE" of the category indicates that the sound source group signal is not output from this group. For example, Figure 15A The overall figure shows a situation where any sound source that does not belong to the group (Mix1) outputs a sound source signal (None). Figure 15A The combination of the category (NONE) of the group (Mix2) and the category (NONE) of the group (Main) indicates that no sound source group signal is output from any group (Main, Mix1, Mix2), and there is no speaker to be driven, so no identification number is marked.

[0101] The control unit 352 of the amplifier 350 can refer to Figures 15A to 15D The combination table shown is used to determine the identification number corresponding to the combination of the categories of the sound source group signals of each group 331, 332, and 333 received from the sound source control device 340. Figure 12 As shown, Figures 15A to 15D The combination table shown can be stored in the storage unit 353 included in the amplifier 350 .

[0102]

[0103] Figures 16 to 19 They are shown respectively Figures 15A to 15D A portion of a correspondence table showing the correspondence between combinations of sound source categories classified by identification numbers (1) to (45) and groups of speakers to be driven and sound sources to drive each speaker. Figures 16 to 19 The correspondence table shown can be stored in the storage unit 353 included in the amplifier 350 . Figures 16 to 19 The sound field settings are different. Figure 16 , the start switch 211 is on (sound field = ON), the sound field selection switch 212 is "ALL" (sound field mode = ALL), and the telephone selection switch 213 is "ALL" (call routing = OFF). Figure 17 and Figure 16 The difference is that the telephone selection switch 213 is "DRIVER" (call routing = ON). Figure 18 and Figure 16 The difference is that the sound field selection switch 212 is "FRONT" (sound field mode = Front). Figure 19 and Figure 16 The difference is that the sound field selection switch 212 is "FRONT" (sound field mode = Front), and the telephone selection switch 213 is "DRIVER" (call routing = ON).

[0104] exist Figures 16 to 19 Extracted from identification numbers (1) to (45) Figure 13A and Figure 13B The ten sound field states shown are identified by the corresponding identification numbers (1), (8), (16), and (35) and are displayed. Figures 16 to 19 The identification numbers (Identifier) ​​(1), (8), (16), and (35) correspond to Figure 13A 、 Figure 13B and Figures 15A to 15D Identification numbers (1), (8), (16), (35) are shown.

[0105] Figures 16 to 19 The following examples illustrate 20 speakers 36-1 to 36-20 installed in the vehicle. The left side of the front seat (FL) is the driver's side, and the right side of the front seat (FR) is the passenger side. On the left side of the front seat (FL), three speakers 36-1 to 36-3 are installed on either the driver's door, the driver's side of the dashboard, or the pillar on the driver's side. In addition, a headrest speaker 36-4 is installed on the driver's headrest. In this way, four speakers 36-1 to 36-4 are installed on the left side of the front seat (FL) facing the driver sitting in the driver's seat. Similarly to the left side of the front seat (FL), a total of four speakers 36-6 to 36-9 are installed on the right side of the rear seat (FR) facing the passenger sitting in the passenger seat. A speaker 36-5 is also installed in the center of the dashboard.

[0106] Meanwhile, three speakers 36-10 to 36-12 are installed on the left rear seat (RL) for the rear occupant. Three speakers 36-13 to 36-15 are installed on the right rear seat (RR) for the rear occupant. A subwoofer 36-16 is installed under the seat or in the trunk. Four surround speakers 36-17 to 36-20 are installed on the left front seat (FL), right front seat (FR), left rear seat (FL), and right rear seat (FR), respectively.

[0107] For each of the identification numbers (1), (8), (16), and (35), the speaker 360 to be driven and the groups 331 to 333 to which the sound source group signals for driving the speakers 36-1 to 36-20 belong are described.

[0108] Figure 16 The identification number (1) indicates the following situation: any sound source of the entertainment (Entertainment), TA (Traffic announcement), and Auto DJ categories belonging to the music group 331 (Main) outputs a sound source group signal, and any sound source belonging to the navigation group 332 (Mix1) and the telephone group 333 (Mix2) does not output a sound source group signal. Figure 16 Identification number (1) and Figure 15A The identification number (1) corresponds to Figure 16 As shown, at this time, the amplifier 350 drives all the speakers 36-1 to 36-20 using the sound source group signal from the music group 331 (Main). Figure 13A The upper left side shows the sound field 110 of the music.

[0109] Figure 16 The identification number (8) indicates the following situation: any sound source of the category of entertainment (Entertainment), TA (Traffic announcement), and Auto DJ belonging to the group 331 (Main) of music outputs a sound source group signal; any sound source of the category of Normal-NAVI, Special-NAVI, and SPI-NAVI belonging to the group 332 (Mix1) of navigation outputs a sound source group signal; and any sound source of the category of telephone group 333 (Mix2) does not output a sound source group signal. Figure 16 The identification number (8) and Figures 15B to 15D The identification number (8) corresponds to Figure 16 As shown, at this time, the amplifier 350 drives all the speakers 36-1 to 36-3, 36-5 to 36-20 except the headrest speaker 36-4 embedded in the driver's seat headrest using the sound source group signal of the group 331 (Main) belonging to music, and drives the headrest speaker 36-4 using the sound source group signal of the group 332 (Mix1) belonging to navigation. Figure 13B The upper left side of the figure shows the sound fields 112, 113 of music and the sound field 120 of navigation.

[0110] Figure 16The identification number (16) indicates the following situation: any sound source of the category of Entertainment, TA (Traffic announcement), and Auto DJ belonging to the music group 331 (Main) outputs a sound source group signal; any sound source of the category of WL-TEL, WL-TEL RING, SPI-TEL, SPI-TEL RING, APP-TEL, and APP-TEL RING belonging to the telephone group 333 (Mix2) outputs a sound source group signal; and any sound source of the category of Navigation group 332 (Mix1) does not output a sound source group signal. Figure 16 The identification number (16) and Figure 15A At this time, the amplifier 350 uses the sound source group signal of the group 333 (Mix2) belonging to the telephone to drive all the speakers 36-1 to 36-4, 36-6 to 36-20 except the speaker 36-5 arranged in the center of the instrument panel, and does not drive the speaker 36-5. Therefore, a Figure 13A The upper right side shows the sound field 131 of the phone.

[0111] Figure 17 The identification number (16) indicates that Figure 16 The same combination of identification number (16). However, Figure 16 The difference is that the telephone selection switch 213 is "DRIVER" (call routing = ON). Figure 17 The identification number (16) and Figure 15A The identification number (16) corresponds to . At this time, the amplifier 350 drives all the speakers 36-1 to 36-4, 36-6 to 36-20 except the speaker 36-5 arranged in the center of the instrument panel, and does not drive the speaker 36-5. The amplifier 350 drives the headrest speaker 36-4 using the sound source group signal of the group 333 (Mix2) belonging to the phone, and drives the speakers 36-1 to 36-3, 36-6 to 36-20 using the sound source group signal of the group 331 (Main) belonging to the music. Therefore, Figure 13A The sound field 130 of the telephone and the sound fields 112 and 113 of the music are shown in the upper center.

[0112] Figure 17Identification number (35) indicates that a sound source group signal is output from any of the following categories: Entertainment, TA (Traffic announcement), and Auto DJ in group 331 (Main) of music; a sound source group signal is output from any of the following categories: Normal-NAVI, Special-NAVI, and SPI-NAVI in group 332 (Mix1) of navigation; and a sound source group signal is output from any of the following categories: WL-TEL, WL-TEL RING, SPI-TEL, SPI-TELRING, APP-TEL, and APP-TEL RING in group 333 (Mix2) of telephone. In this case, amplifier 350 drives all of speakers 36-1 to 36-4 and 36-6 to 36-20 except speaker 36-5 located in the center of the instrument panel, and does not drive speaker 36-5. The amplifier 350 drives the headrest speaker 36-4 using the sound source group signal of the group 333 (Mix2) belonging to the telephone, drives the speakers 36-1 to 36-3 using the sound source group signal of the group 332 (Mix1) belonging to the navigation, and drives the speakers 36-6 to 36-20 using the sound source group signal of the group 331 (Main) belonging to the music. Figure 13B Shown on the upper right side are the sound field 133 of the telephone, the sound field 120 of the navigation surrounding the sound field 133, and the sound fields 112 and 113 of the music.

[0113] on the other hand, Figure 18 and Figure 19 The identification numbers (1), (8), (16) and (35) are respectively Figure 16 and Figure 17 The combination of the categories of the sound sources with the same identification numbers (1), (8), (16) and (35). However, Figure 18 and Figure 19 The sound field setting and Figure 16 and Figure 17 (Sound field mode = ALL) The difference is that the sound field selection switch 212 is "FRONT" (Sound field mode = Front). Therefore, among the plurality of speakers 36-1 to 36-20, the other speakers 36-9 to 36-20 except for the speakers facing the front seats (FL, FR) are not driven (Mute: mute) regardless of the combination of categories. At this time, Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown in the lower layer, the sound fields 111, 112, 120, 130, 132, and 133 are formed in the vehicle cabin when the front seat is selected.

[0114] like Figures 16 to 19As shown, amplifier 350 may also include a table that lists combinations of types of sound source group signals, the speakers 360 to be driven, and the sound source group signals used to drive each speaker 36-1 through 36-20. Amplifier 350 can refer to the table to determine which speakers 36-1 through 36-20 to drive and the sound source group signals used to drive each speaker 36-1 through 36-20. This simplifies amplifier 350's control of speakers 360.

[0115] As described above, according to the third embodiment, the following effects are obtained. For example, Figure 13A The sound field 130 of the sound source belonging to the group 333 (Mix2) of the telephone when "Call Routing: Yes" is shown, and Figure 13B The sound field 120 of the sound source of the group 332 (Mix1) belonging to the navigation is limited to the driver's seat, which is a part of the seats in the vehicle. In this way, when the sound field of the sound played by the sound source belonging to the first group is limited to a part of the seats in the vehicle (the driver's seat), the amplifier 350 distributes the first sound source group signal output by the sound source belonging to the first group to the speaker facing the occupant of the driver's seat, and distributes the second sound source group signal output by the sound source belonging to the second group (for example, music) to the second speaker facing the occupants of other seats (the front passenger seat and the back seat). Figures 16 to 19 As shown in the identification numbers (8), (16), and (35), the amplifier 350 uses the first sound source group signal and the second sound source group signal to simultaneously drive the first speaker and the second speaker. Figure 13A and Figure 13B As shown, it is possible to simultaneously create separate sound fields for the sounds played by the sound sources belonging to the first group and the sound fields for the sounds played by the sound sources belonging to the second group. In other words, it is possible to simultaneously create sound fields in which two different sounds can be heard. Each sound can be distinctly heard in each sound field without mixing the two sounds.

[0116] like Figure 13B As shown, when the sound field 133 of the first sound source group signal and the sound field 120 of the second sound source group signal are to be formed in the area including the passenger seated in a specific seat (here, the driver's seat) in the vehicle cabin, the amplifier 350 is as follows: Figure 17 As shown in the identification number (35), the first sound source group signal with high priority is assigned to the headrest speaker 36-4 close to the passenger's ear, and the first sound source group signal with low priority is assigned to the speakers 36-1 to 36-3 away from the passenger's ear. In this way, when the sound fields of two sound sources of different groups directed toward a specific passenger conflict, the assigned speakers are assigned according to the distance from the passenger's ears. Speakers with different distances from the passenger's ears are assigned according to the priority of the first sound source group signal and the second sound source group signal. In this way, Figure 13BAs shown, the sound fields 133 and 120 of the first and second sound source group signals are formed in the area including the driver's seat, respectively. The passenger can listen to the sounds of the first and second sound source group signals according to the priority.

[0117] When multiple sound source group signals (e.g., navigation and phone signals) are used to simultaneously drive multiple speakers 36-1 to 36-4 directed toward a passenger (e.g., the driver) seated in a specific seat within the vehicle cabin, amplifier 350 assigns a higher-priority sound source group signal (phone signal) to speaker 36-4 located near the passenger's ear, and assigns a lower-priority sound source group signal to speakers 36-1 to 36-3 located farther from the passenger's ear. By assigning different distances from the passenger's ears to the speakers based on the priority of the sound source group signals, the passenger can hear multiple sounds according to the priority of the sound source group signals.

[0118] The multiple speakers directed toward passengers seated in specific seats within the vehicle cabin include headrest speakers 36-4 and 36-9 attached to the headrest of the specific seat, and specific-seat speakers 36-1 to 36-3, 36-6 to 36-8 attached to the door closest to the specific seat, the dashboard on the specific seat's side, or the pillar on the specific seat's side. The amplifier distributes the sound source group signals output from sound sources in group 331 (Mix2) for telephone calls to headrest speakers 36-4 and 36-9, and distributes the sound source group signals output from sound sources in group 332 (Mix1) for navigation calls to the specific-seat speakers. Because the sound from the telephone, which has a higher priority than the navigation sound source, can be played from headrest speaker 36-4, which is closer to the passenger's ear, amplifier 350 can appropriately drive speaker 360.

[0119] As described above, the third embodiment is described, but it should not be understood that the description and drawings forming part of this disclosure limit the invention. Various alternative embodiments, examples, and operational techniques will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on this disclosure.

[0120] For example, the sound source control device 340 may send a signal for identifying the sound source 330 that outputs each sound source group signal to the amplifier 350 instead of a signal for identifying the type of each sound source group signal. Figure 14 The table showing the correspondence between sound source 330 and its category determines the category of sound source 330 based on the signal identifying sound source 330. Therefore, amplifier 350 can determine which speakers to drive and the sound source group signal used to drive each speaker based on the signal identifying the sound source and the signal indicating the sound field settings received from sound source control device 340. This simplifies amplifier 350's control of speaker 360.

[0121] like Figure 14 In the figure, the case where the sound source 330 is classified into any one of the group 331 (Main) for music, the group 332 (Mix1) for navigation, and the group 331 (Main) for telephone calls is described. However, the sound source 330 may be classified into two or four or more groups.

[0122] In the third embodiment, amplifier 350 does not drive speakers facing areas within the vehicle cabin where no sound field is formed. Without limitation, amplifier 350 may drive speakers facing areas within the vehicle cabin where no sound field is formed using an active noise cancellation signal that is in phase with the sound source group signal driving the other speakers. This allows the active noise cancellation signal to cancel sound leaking from areas where a sound field is formed into areas where no sound field is formed, thereby enabling high-precision control of the outer edge of the sound field.

[0123] Description of Reference Numerals

[0124] 100: Sound field control device; 110-113, 120, 130-133: Sound field; 220: Layout diagram; 211: Start switch (information indicating the start or stop of the sound field control device); 221, 222, 223: Seats; 221: Driver's seat; 231-233: Sound source icon; 234: Ripple expansion animation; 235, 33N: Mute icon; 240: Article; 330: Sound source; 331: Music group; 332: Navigation group; 333: Phone group; 350: Amplifier; 351: Sound input; 360: Speaker; 36-1-36-3, 36-6-36-8: Speakers for specific seats; 36-4, 36-9: Headrest speakers; 400: Touch panel (display).

Claims

1. A sound system comprising: a sound source control device that outputs a plurality of sound source group signals; and an amplifier having at least the same number of sound inputs as the number of the sound source group signals, and driving a plurality of speakers mounted on a vehicle using the sound source group signals input to the respective sound inputs, in, The sound source control device classifies sound sources whose number is greater than the number of the sound source group signals into a plurality of groups, and outputs, for each group, sound source signals output from the plurality of sound sources belonging to the group as the sound source group signals. The amplifier determines the speakers to be driven and the sound source group signals for driving the speakers based on the types of the sound source group signals and a setting of a sound field, wherein the sound field is an area in a vehicle cabin where sounds reproduced from the plurality of speakers are heard.

2. The sound system according to claim 1, wherein The sound source control device outputs, as a sound group signal, a representative sound source signal output from a sound source with the highest priority among sound source signals simultaneously output from a plurality of sound sources belonging to the same group.

3. The sound system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: In the case where multiple sound source group signals are to be used to simultaneously drive multiple speakers directed toward an occupant sitting in a specific seat in the vehicle, the amplifier assigns a high-priority sound source group signal to the speakers close to the occupant's ears and a low-priority sound source group signal to the speakers far from the occupant's ears.

4. The sound system according to claim 3, wherein The plurality of speakers directed toward an occupant seated in a specific seat in the vehicle cabin include a headrest speaker mounted on a headrest of the specific seat, and a specific seat speaker mounted on a door closest to the specific seat, an instrument panel on the specific seat side, or a pillar on the specific seat side. The amplifier distributes a sound source group signal output from a sound source belonging to a telephone group to the headrest speaker, and distributes a sound source group signal output from a sound source belonging to a navigation group to the specific seat speaker.

5. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The amplifier includes a correspondence table of combinations of types of sound source group signals, speakers to be driven, and sound source group signals for driving each speaker, and determines the speakers to be driven and the sound source group signals for driving each speaker by referring to the correspondence table.

6. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The sound source control device transmits a signal indicating the type of each sound source group signal and a signal indicating the setting of the sound field to the amplifier. The amplifier determines the speakers to be driven and the sound source group signals for driving the speakers based on the signal indicating the type of each sound source group signal and the signal indicating the sound field setting received from the sound source control device.

7. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The sound source control device transmits a signal for identifying the sound source outputting each sound source group signal and a signal indicating the setting of the sound field to the amplifier. The amplifier determines the speakers to be driven and a sound source group signal for driving each speaker based on a signal for identifying the sound source and a signal indicating the sound field setting received from the sound source control device.

8. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The plurality of sound sources are classified into any one of a group of music, a group of navigation, and a group of telephone calls.

9. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The amplifier drives the speakers facing an area where the sound field is not formed in the vehicle cabin using active noise cancellation signals having a phase opposite to that of the sound source group signals used to drive the other speakers.

10. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: In a case where the sound field of the sound played from the sound source belonging to the first group is limited to only a part of the seats in the vehicle cabin, the amplifier assigns a first sound source group signal output from the sound source belonging to the first group to a first speaker directed toward the occupants of the part of the seats, and assigns a second sound source group signal output from the sound source belonging to the second group to a second speaker directed toward the occupants of the other seats, and uses the first sound source group signal and the second sound source group signal to simultaneously drive the first speaker and the second speaker.

11. The sound system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: When the sound field of the first sound source group signal and the sound field of the second sound source group signal are to be respectively formed in an area within the vehicle cabin including a passenger seated in a specific seat, the amplifier assigns the first sound source group signal with a high priority to the speaker close to the passenger's ear, and assigns the first sound source group signal with a low priority to the speaker far from the passenger's ear.

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