System and method for audio position adjustment

Abstract

A method includes identifying a marker point associated with an operator of a vehicle, determining a location associated with the operator based on the identification of the marker point, and automatically adjusting a location of one or more speakers disposed within a headrest of the vehicle in response to the determination of the location.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 583,087, filed September 15, 2023. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the adjustment of audio position, and more specifically to systems and methods for automatically adjusting the position of one or more speakers relative to the body characteristics of a person. Background Technology

[0004] The statements in this section are provided only as background information in connection with this disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0005] While automotive design has begun integrating speakers into headrests in hopes of improving the user experience, the inherent characteristics of speakers can still hinder this improvement. For example, speakers typically produce sound in a directional manner and therefore cannot accommodate users of different heights and / or head widths. As another example, speakers can emit sound in ways that degrade the user experience or sound quality. Limitations in installation space can further reduce the user experience or sound quality.

[0006] This disclosure addresses these and other problems related to viewing the external environment (particularly from inside a vehicle). Summary of the Invention

[0007] This section provides a general overview of this disclosure, rather than a full disclosure of its entire scope or all its features.

[0008] This disclosure provides a method comprising: identifying a landmark associated with an operator of a vehicle; determining a position associated with the operator based on the identification of the landmark; and automatically adjusting the position of one or more speakers disposed within a headrest of the vehicle in response to the determination of the position; wherein the position is based on a body feature of the operator, and wherein the body feature includes at least one ear of the operator, the nose of the operator, the mouth of the operator, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof; wherein determining the position comprises: analyzing one or more image-related signals based on the landmark via a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein the landmark is an eyebox associated with the operator of the vehicle; wherein the automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the angular position of the one or more speakers; wherein the automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the height of the one or more speakers; further comprising: adjusting content output by the one or more speakers based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof; further comprising: adjusting content output by another speaker based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof.

[0009] This disclosure provides a system comprising: one or more cameras associated with a vehicle, wherein the one or more cameras are configured to identify landmarks associated with an operator of the vehicle; and a controller associated with the vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to: determine a position associated with the operator based on the identification of the landmarks, and in response to the determination of the position, cause adjustment of the position of one or more speakers disposed within a headrest of the vehicle, wherein the headrest is configured to automatically adjust the position of the one or more speakers; wherein the position is based on a body characteristic of the operator, and wherein the body characteristic includes at least one ear of the operator, the nose of the operator, the mouth of the operator, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof; wherein the controller configured to determine the position is further configured to: The system analyzes one or more image-related signals based on marker points using a vehicle-side algorithm. These marker points are viewframes associated with the vehicle's operator. Automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers alters the angular position of the speakers. Automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers alters the height of the speakers. The controller is further configured to adjust the content output by one or more speakers based on the position, wherein the adjustment alters the content's equalization, delay compensation, gain compensation, sound level, or a combination thereof. The controller is also configured to adjust the content output by another speaker based on the position, wherein the adjustment alters the content's equalization, delay compensation, gain compensation, sound level, or a combination thereof.

[0010] This disclosure provides one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: identify landmarks associated with an operator of a vehicle; determine a position associated with the operator based on the identification of the landmarks; and automatically adjust the position of one or more speakers disposed within a headrest of the vehicle in response to the determination of the position; wherein the position is based on a body characteristic of the operator, and wherein the body characteristic includes at least one ear of the operator, the nose of the operator, the mouth of the operator, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof; wherein the at least one processor is further caused to: determine the position of a vehicle-side vehicle based on the landmarks via a vehicle-side algorithm. Analyzing one or more image-related signals, wherein the marker point is a view frame associated with the vehicle operator; wherein automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers changes the angular position of one or more speakers; wherein automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers changes the height of one or more speakers; wherein the at least one processor is also caused to: adjust the content output by one or more speakers based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof; or adjust the content output by another speaker based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof.

[0011] Other applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the descriptions and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0012] To better understand this disclosure, various forms of the disclosure, given by way of example, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 An example representation of a driving environment according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure is shown;

[0014] Figure 2A and Figure 2B An example of an adjustable headrest according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0015] Figure 3 A driving environment illustrating the movement of a vehicle driver is shown according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure;

[0016] Figures 4 to 7 An example method for adjusting the audio position relative to a vehicle headrest according to one or more embodiments of this disclosure is shown; and

[0017] Figure 8 A block diagram of an example computer system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0018] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The following description is exemplary in nature only and is not intended to limit this disclosure, its application, or its uses. It should be understood that throughout the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts and features.

[0020] One or more embodiments of this disclosure provide systems and methods for automatically adjusting the position of one or more speakers (e.g., located within a vehicle headrest) relative to the body characteristics of a person (e.g., a vehicle operator). For example, standard camera technology (or other imaging techniques) is used to infer the person's head position to automatically adjust the position of the headrest (and associated speakers) to compensate for variations in the size and position of the person's head. As another example, this compensation can result in reduced operator workload (e.g., eliminating the need for manual headrest adjustment) and an overall improved audio experience.

[0021] Figure 1 A driving environment 100 is generally shown, in which a driver 102 is operating a vehicle 104. In one or more embodiments, the vehicle 104 includes an adjustable headrest 106 attached to the backrest 108 of a driver's seat 110. The vehicle 104 also includes a head-up display (HUD) device 112. It should be understood that the vehicle 104 may include... Figure 1 Any number of parts related to vehicle 104 not depicted in the description. It should also be understood that... Figure 1 The components depicted (e.g., adjustable headrest 106, backrest 108, driver's seat 110, and HUD device 112) are not essential for the operation of vehicle 104.

[0022] HUD control unit 112 typically includes a video display controller 114, a display 116, a first mirror 118, a second mirror 120, and a motor 122. In some examples, HUD control unit 112 is implemented within vehicle 104 to adjust the display level of HUD information projected onto windshield 124. However, it should be understood that HUD control unit 112 can be implemented within any general structure in which HUD information can be displayed, such as a helmet or glasses, and is not limited to the examples described herein.

[0023] In one or more examples, the first mirror 118 is a folding mirror, which may be planar or aspherical and reflects received light toward the second mirror 120. As another example, the second mirror 120 is a tiltable mirror, which may be aspherical and directs light toward the windshield 124. In various examples, the direction of light directed from the second mirror 120 is controlled within an optical path 126, which originates from the user's viewing frame 128 and represents at least a portion of the driver 102's field of vision. It should be understood that the optical path 126 may vary based on the height of the user's viewing frame 128. It should also be understood that the height of the viewing frame 128 may be based on the height of the driver 102.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the video display controller 114 includes a memory 130, an algorithm 132, and a processor 134, wherein the processor 134 is configured to execute instructions stored in the memory 130 to control the output of the motor 122 and / or the display 116. It should be understood that the display 116 outputs images or other data and / or light to reflect them onto the first mirror 118. The video display controller 114 can control the display 116 to project specific images and / or light based on instructions stored in the memory 130 and / or based on other input from the driver 102. For example, instructions can be provided to the video display controller 114 using a user input interface 136 and a vehicle input interface 138 to control the display 116 based on user input (e.g., input from the driver 102) and vehicle data / status, respectively. For example, user input that changes the type of information displayed (e.g., choosing between instrument data such as speed / RPM / and navigation data such as turning direction), user input that selects options when displaying a graphical user interface, and / or user input that otherwise indicates the driver 102's preferences is provided to the video display controller 114 and processed to change the content, height, and / or format of the displayed data. As an example, the content could be data (e.g., music files, video files, recorded sound waves, etc.). It should be understood that in some examples, the user input interface 136 receives user input from any suitable user input device, including but not limited to touchscreens, vehicle-mounted actuators (e.g., buttons, switches, knobs, dials, etc.), microphones (e.g., for voice commands), external devices (e.g., mobility devices for vehicle occupants), and / or other user input devices.

[0025] Vehicle input interface 138 receives data indicating vehicle status and / or other vehicle data from vehicle sensors (not shown) and / or systems, and can send said data to video display controller 114 to adjust the content and / or the format of the displayed data. For example, current speed can be supplied to vehicle input interface 138 (e.g., via Controller Area Network (CAN), the bus of vehicle 104), and said current speed can be sent to video display controller 114 to update the display of current speed of vehicle 104. Vehicle input interface 138 can also receive input from navigation module (not shown) of vehicle 104 and / or other information sources within vehicle 104.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the video display controller 114 is also configured to activate the second mirror 120 via the motor 122. For example, the video display controller 114 sends a command to the motor 122 to drive the second mirror 120 to tilt to a specific angle or degree. For example, it should be understood that the second mirror 120 tilts to + / - 1 degree. However, it should be understood that the second mirror 120 can tilt to any angle. It should be understood that the tilt of the second mirror 120 is based on input from the driver 102 via the user input interface 136. In some examples, the motor 122 is a brushless DC motor. The motor 122 drives the second mirror 120 to tilt to multiple positions, such that the direction of light can be changed, allowing the display area 140 to be displayed to the driver 102 at different levels or heights. As another example, the motor 122 drives the tilt of the second mirror 120 based on the height of the driver 102's view frame 128. As yet another example, the motor 122 drives the tilt of the second mirror 120 based on preferences provided by the driver 102 via the user input interface 136.

[0027] Vehicle 104 also includes one or more sensors 142 (e.g., one or more cameras) disposed within HUD device 112. In one or more embodiments, the one or more sensors 142 are configured to detect the position of the driver 102's view frame 128, thereby identifying the position of the driver 102's eyes 144. It should be understood that the one or more sensors 142 are also configured to identify any other features of the driver 102 (e.g., eyes 144, ears 146, nose 148, mouth 150). As an example, processor 134 is also configured to process one or more image-related signals (e.g., raw data or any other type of data) received at controller 114 from the one or more sensors 142. In another example, algorithm 132 is configured to analyze one or more image-related signals to determine the position of the driver 102's ears 146. As yet another example, algorithm 132 uses the position of the eyes 144 as a landmark to determine the position of the ears 146. For example, algorithm 132 can determine the position of the ears 146 by implementing machine learning or artificial intelligence-related processes or methods. As an additional example, algorithm 132 may also use a neural network to segment the pixels of an image of the driver 102's identified features and determine the location of the identified features in the image by using bounding boxes or any other image analysis method. It should be understood that other suitable methods may be used.

[0028] The driver's seat 110 is configured to communicatively connect to the controller 114 (e.g., via wired or wireless means). The adjustable headrest 106 is configured to connect via a plug (e.g., Figure 2A and Figure 2B The plug 232 shown is communicatively connected to the backrest 108 of the driver's seat 110. The adjustable headrest 106 includes one or more transducers 152 (e.g., one or more speakers) and is intended for use in a vehicle 104, a movie theater, and / or any other environment. In response to determination of the position of the ear 146, the controller 114 can activate the first actuator of a plurality of actuators (e.g., Figure 2A and Figure 2B The first actuator 240a) of the plurality of actuators 240a-240c shown automatically adjusts the adjustable headrest 106. For example, the adjustable headrest 106 is automatically adjusted to position one or more transducers 152 relative to the ears 146 in an optimal position. However, it should be understood that the adjustable headrest 106 may be automatically adjusted to position one or more transducers 152 relative to any of the identified features. For example, the identified features may include the width of the driver 102’s head 154, and this position may be the outer periphery of the driver 102’s face, which serves as the basis for the adjustment of one or more transducers 152.

[0029] As another example, the optimal position could be a predefined offset threshold used to position the ear 146 relative to one or more transducers 152 to provide the best experience for the driver 102. As yet another example, the adjustable headrest 106 is adjustable along a vertical plane (e.g., up or down). As yet another example, one or more transducers 152 are adjusted along a horizontal plane (e.g., towards or away from the driver 102's head 154). As an additional example, a better user experience can be achieved when the driver 102's head 154 is narrower if the angle of one or more transducers 152 is adjusted so that one or more transducers 152 are oriented inward from the adjustable headrest 106 and towards the driver 102's ear 146. As another example, if one or more transducers 152 are oriented outward from the adjustable headrest 106 and away from the driver's ears 146, such that an equal distance is established between the one or more transducers 152 and the driver's ears 146, a wider head 154 of the driver 102 provides a better user experience regardless of the size of the head 154. However, it should be understood that adjustment of the adjustable headrest 106 and / or one or more transducers 152 may not occur if a predefined offset threshold is met.

[0030] Although Figure 1 The driver 102 is depicted operating vehicle 104, but it should be understood that any relevant disclosure herein is applicable to passengers in any seat of vehicle 104, such as front passenger seats or rear passenger seats.

[0031] Turn now Figure 2AThe adjustable headrest 106 may have a generally trapezoidal profile, having a top 202, a set of sides 204 (collectively referred to as "sides 204"), and a bottom 206. However, it should be understood that the adjustable headrest 106 can be manufactured in any shape, not limited to a trapezoidal shape. A set of reference axes 208 is provided for the relative positioning of the aspects associated with the adjustable headrest 106, indicating the vertical "y" direction 210, the horizontal "x" direction 212, and the lateral "z" direction 214. The sides 204 are skewed relative to the vertical direction 210, so that the distance between the tops of the sides 204 is shorter than the distance between the bottoms of the sides 204. The areas where the top 202 mates with the tops of the sides 204 and the areas where the bottom 206 mates with the bottoms of the sides 204 may be curved. The top 202 and the sides 204 may be slightly curved in their respective horizontal and vertical directions, and the bottom 206 may be substantially straight in its respective horizontal direction. The adjustable headrest 106 may have a thickness measured along the lateral direction 214, which may be the greatest at the bottom end 206 and decrease non-linearly in thickness along the vertical direction 210 toward the top end 202.

[0032] The central region 216 of the adjustable headrest 106 acts as a head support and is made of a compressible material, such as foam, to cushion the head of an occupant (e.g., the head 154 of the driver 102 or the head of any other person in vehicle 104). The central region 216 has a thickness measured in the lateral direction 214 that is greater than a set of side portions 218 of the adjustable headrest 106 that extend horizontally 212 outside the central region 216. A set of grilles 220 (collectively referred to as “grilles 220”) is integrated into the front surface 222 of the adjustable headrest 106. Each of the grilles 220 includes an acoustically permeable structure that physically protects the associated speaker system (e.g., one or more transducers 152) while allowing sound waves to pass through the grille 220. It should be understood that, as Figure 2B As shown, the grille 220 is removably attached to the front surface 222 of the adjustable headrest 106. More specifically, Figure 2B An adjustable headrest 106 is shown, in which one or more transducers 152 are provided and exposed.

[0033] Return to Figure 2AThe front surface 222 can be positioned at different depths (e.g., in the lateral direction 214) in different regions of the adjustable headrest 106. For example, the front surface 222 in a region of the side portion 218 may be recessed relative to the front surface 222 in the central region 216. The set of grilles 220 can be disposed in each of the side portions 218. For example, each grille 220 may be integrated into the front surface 222 of the adjustable headrest 106 (e.g., in a region of the side portion 218). In this way, a portion of the front surface 222 of the adjustable headrest 106 (e.g., in a region of the side portion 218) may be formed by grilles 220. Each grille 220 may have a length indicated by arrow 224, which may be shorter than the side portion 204 of the adjustable headrest 106. The aspect ratio of the grilles 220 can affect the performance of one or more transducers 152 and the grilles 220 (e.g., sound directivity, propagation, etc.). In one or more examples, the aspect ratio (e.g., length to width ratio) of the grille 220 may be 4:1. Each grille 220 may be mirror-symmetrical about a central axis 226 extending approximately vertically along the height of the front surface 222. Each grille 220 may have a maximum width (indicated by arrow 228) that is shorter than the width of the side portion 218 (indicated by arrow 230). The front surface of the grille 220 ( Figure 1 The visible surface can follow the curvature of the associated region of the front surface 222.

[0034] The adjustable headrest 106 also includes a plug 232 that mates with a set of cables 234 for communication with a speaker system and / or a device operated by the driver 102 (e.g., any other person in the vehicle 104) capable of (e.g., receiving one or more inputs and generating one or more outputs) controlling sound frequencies, sound levels, etc. The adjustable headrest 106 further includes a pair of levers 236 (collectively referred to as "lever 236") coupled to the internal frame of the adjustable headrest 106 and extending generally vertically 210 from the bottom end 206 of the adjustable headrest 106. Lever 236 can be configured to slide into a set of ports 238 (collectively referred to as "ports 238") in the backrest 108 of the driver's seat 110 to attach the adjustable headrest 106 thereto. The plug 232 is also configured to communicatively attach (e.g., via a wired connection) to the backrest 108. Furthermore, for example, as Figure 1 As shown, the driver's seat 110 is communicatively attached (e.g., via a wired connection) to the controller 114.

[0035] The adjustable headrest 106 also includes a plurality of electric actuators 240a-240c controlled by a controller 114 and at least one sensor 242. It should be understood that the plurality of actuators 240a-240c can be electrically controlled (e.g., via voltage). It should be understood that the controller 114 can adjust the output of one or more transducers 152.

[0036] For example, the first actuator 240a of the plurality of actuators 240a-240c is configured to adjust the adjustable headrest 106 in the vertical direction. Each of the second actuator 240b and the third actuator 240c of the plurality of actuators 240a-240c is configured to cause angular adjustment of the set of side panels 204 and / or one or more transducers 152 disposed therein. For example, the second actuator 240b and the third actuator 240c can cause the set of side panels 204 to fold toward or away from the central axis 226, thereby adjusting the angular position of one or more transducers 152 relative to the driver's ear 146 of the driver 102. As another example, the second actuator 240b and the third actuator 240c can rotatably adjust one or more transducers 152 themselves toward or away from the central axis 226 without folding the set of sides 204, thereby adjusting the angular position of one or more transducers 152 relative to the driver 102's ear 146. It should be understood that any combination of angular adjustment of the set of sides 204 and / or one or more transducers 152, and vertical adjustment of the adjustable headrest 106 itself, can be performed. It should also be understood that actuators 240a-240c can be configured to adjust to different positions and cause any type of different movement (e.g., sliding, rotation, pivoting, etc.).

[0037] It should also be understood that Figure 2A and Figure 2B The adjustable headrest 106 shown is one or more example configurations of a headrest equipped with a speaker system. A second example of the adjustable headrest 106 may include different numbers of grilles disposed on the surface of the headrest. In another example, the grilles may have alternative shapes or sizes. Therefore, it should be understood that the scope of this disclosure should not be limited to the number, shape, or size of the grilles described herein.

[0038] Figure 3 Another driving environment 300 is generally illustrated, in which the driver 102 changes from a first position X to a second position Y, causing the driver 102 to move rearward within the vehicle 104. For example, in the case where the driver 102 repositions the driver's seat 110, the driver 102 can change from the first position X to the second position Y. It should be noted that while this example shows the driver's seat 110 moving rearward, other movements, such as downward movement, upward movement, and tilting movement, are also considered. Figure 3As depicted, the first position X positions the driver 102 closer to the speaker 244 (closer to the speaker 244 than one or more transducers 152), while the second position Y positions the driver 102 closer to one or more transducers 152 (closer to one or more transducers 152 than the speaker 244). In other words, the first position X is located near the front of the vehicle 104, while the second position Y is located near the rear of the vehicle 104.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, when the driver 102 changes from a first position X to a second position Y, one or more transducers 152 may adjust the content (e.g., audio) output by the one or more transducers 152, such as increasing the content-associated latency, decreasing the content-associated gain, or a combination thereof. When the driver 102 changes from the first position X to the second position Y, the speaker 244 may additionally adjust the content output by the speaker 244, such as decreasing the content-associated latency, increasing the content-associated gain, or a combination thereof. It should be understood that the one or more transducers 152 include a right transducer 152A and a left transducer 152b. It should also be understood that the speaker 244 includes a right speaker 244A and a left speaker 244b. It should also be understood that, for example, since the distance between the driver 102 and the right speaker 244a increases to a greater value than the measured distance between the driver 102 and the left speaker 244b when the driver 102 changes from the first position X to the second position Y, the content-related gain increases more from the right speaker 244a than from the left speaker 244b.

[0040] In one or more other embodiments, and where the driver 102 changes from a second position Y to a first position X, one or more transducers 152 may adjust the content output by the one or more transducers 152, such as reducing content-related latency, increasing content-related gain, or a combination thereof. When the driver 102 changes from the second position Y to the first position X, the speaker 244 may further adjust the content output by the speaker 244, such as increasing content-related latency, decreasing content-related gain, or a combination thereof. It should be understood that, for example, the content-related gain may vary based on the position of the driver 102 relative to the right speaker 244A and the left speaker 244b. As an example, where the driver 102 is positioned further from the right speaker 244a than from the left speaker 244b, the content-related gain from the right speaker 244a increases more than that from the left speaker 244b. However, in another example, where the driver 102 is positioned further from the left speaker 244b than from the right speaker 244a, the gain associated with the content increases more from the left speaker 244a than from the right speaker 244b.

[0041] It should be understood that, in any exemplary embodiment, the amount of gain associated with the content or the amount of delay variation associated with the content can be adjusted and / or modified by any audio conditioning mechanism (e.g., an audio conditioning engineer or driver 102). As an example, the amount of gain associated with the content or the amount of delay variation associated with the content can be adjusted based on mathematical calculations (e.g., one or more equations) or lookup tables that can interpolate one or more values. For example, a lookup table may indicate that, at a -50mm Y-position, the left transducer 152b has a gain of -3dB and a delay of 3ms. As another example, a lookup table may indicate that, at a 0mm Y-position, the left transducer 152b has a gain of 0dB and a delay of 1ms. As yet another example, a lookup table may indicate that, at a 50mm Y-position, the left transducer 152b has a gain of 6dB and a delay of 0ms. It should be understood that the gain and delay of the right transducer 152a may also vary with the Y-position. It should also be understood that the values ​​in the lookup table described above are merely examples and can be adjusted (using different values) based on factors such as the type of speaker 244, the type of one or more transducers 152, the type of vehicle 104, etc. That is, the output characteristics of speaker 244 and / or one or more transducers 152, as well as the internal configuration or other characteristics of vehicle 104, may differ, causing the values ​​in the lookup table to be adjusted accordingly.

[0042] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method 400 for adjusting audio position relative to a headrest (e.g., adjustable headrest 106) associated with a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 104). At operation 402, a marker point associated with the operator of the vehicle (e.g., driver 102) is identified. For example, the marker point is a view frame (e.g., view frame 128) associated with the operator of the vehicle.

[0043] At operation 404, a position associated with the operator is determined. This position is determined, for example, based on the identification of landmarks. As another example, the position is based on the operator's physical characteristics. As yet another example, physical characteristics include at least one of the operator's eyes (e.g., eye 144), at least one of the operator's ears (e.g., ear 146), the operator's nose (e.g., nose 148), the operator's mouth (e.g., mouth 150), the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, one or more image-related signals are analyzed via a vehicle-side algorithm (e.g., algorithm 132). For example, the analysis of one or more image-related signals is based on landmarks.

[0044] At operation 406, the position of one or more speakers (e.g., one or more transducers 152) is automatically adjusted. For example, one or more speakers are disposed within the headrests of a vehicle. As another example, the position of one or more speakers is automatically adjusted in response to the determination of their position. As yet another example, the automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers changes the angular position of one or more speakers. As yet another example, the automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers changes the height of one or more speakers.

[0045] In one or more embodiments, the content output by one or more speakers is adjusted. For example, the adjustment of the content output by one or more speakers is based on location. As another example, the adjustment of the content by one or more speakers alters the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof. As another example, the content's equalization can be varied via an equalizer, which can be adjusted to change the sound characteristics associated with the content (e.g., bass, treble, etc.). As yet another example, the content can be adjusted by delaying the generation of the content at one or more speakers or other speakers (e.g., speaker 244) to change the delay compensation associated with the content, thereby reducing echo and / or other sound-related problems. In one or more embodiments, the content output by another speaker is adjusted. For example, the adjustment of the content output by another speaker is based on location. As another example, the adjustment of the content by another speaker alters the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof. As yet another example, the other speaker may be one or more speakers integrated throughout the vehicle and located outside the headrest.

[0046] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method 500 for adjusting audio position relative to a headrest (e.g., adjustable headrest 106) associated with a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 104). At operation 502, a marker point associated with the operator of the vehicle (e.g., driver 102) is identified. For example, the marker point is a view frame (e.g., view frame 128) associated with the operator of the vehicle.

[0047] At operation 504, a position associated with the operator is determined. This position may be determined based on the identification of a landmark. As another example, the position may be based on the operator's physical characteristics. As yet another example, physical characteristics may include at least one of the operator's eyes (e.g., eye 144), at least one of the operator's ears (e.g., ear 146), the operator's nose (e.g., nose 148), the operator's mouth (e.g., mouth 150), the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof.

[0048] At operation 506, it is determined whether an offset threshold is met. For example, an offset threshold corresponding to an optimal position can be predefined, where at least one of the operator's ears should be positioned relative to one or more speakers (e.g., one or more transducers 152) to provide the best experience for the driver. If it is determined that the offset of one or more speakers does not meet the offset threshold, operation 504 is repeated and the position associated with the operator is determined again. It should be understood that operation 504 can be repeated until the offset of one or more speakers meets (e.g., reaches or exceeds) the offset threshold. However, it should also be understood that operation 504 can only be repeated a predefined number of times, after which method 500 ends.

[0049] However, if it is determined that the offset of one or more speakers meets an offset threshold, method 500 proceeds to operation 508, where the position of one or more speakers is automatically adjusted. For example, one or more speakers are housed within the headrests of a vehicle. As another example, the position of one or more speakers is automatically adjusted in response to the determination of the position and the satisfaction of the offset threshold. As yet another example, the automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers changes the angular position of one or more speakers. As yet another example, the automatic adjustment of the position of one or more speakers changes the height of one or more speakers.

[0050] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method 600 for adjusting audio position relative to a headrest (e.g., adjustable headrest 106) associated with a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 104). At operation 602, a marker point associated with the operator of the vehicle (e.g., driver 102) is identified. For example, the marker point is a view frame (e.g., view frame 128) associated with the operator of the vehicle.

[0051] At operation 604, a position associated with the operator is determined. This position may be determined based on the identification of a landmark. As another example, the position may be based on the operator's physical characteristics. As yet another example, physical characteristics may include at least one of the operator's eyes (e.g., eye 144), at least one of the operator's ears (e.g., ear 146), the operator's nose (e.g., nose 148), the operator's mouth (e.g., mouth 150), the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof.

[0052] At operation 606, the content output by one or more speakers (e.g., one or more transducers 152) is adjusted. For example, the adjustment of the content output by one or more speakers is based on position. As another example, the adjustment of the content by one or more speakers alters the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an example method 700 for adjusting audio position relative to a headrest (e.g., adjustable headrest 106) associated with a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 104). At operation 702, a marker point associated with the operator of the vehicle (e.g., driver 102) is identified. For example, the marker point is a view frame (e.g., view frame 128) associated with the operator of the vehicle.

[0054] At operation 704, a position associated with the operator is determined. For example, this position is determined based on the identification of a landmark. As another example, the position is based on the operator's physical characteristics. As yet another example, physical characteristics include at least one of the operator's eyes (e.g., eye 144), at least one of the operator's ears (e.g., ear 146), the operator's nose (e.g., nose 148), the operator's mouth (e.g., mouth 150), the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof.

[0055] At operation 706, it is determined whether an offset threshold is met. For example, an offset threshold corresponding to an optimal position can be predefined, where at least one of the operator's ears should be positioned relative to the speaker location to provide the best experience for the driver. If it is determined that the offset of one or more speakers does not meet the offset threshold, operation 704 is repeated and the position associated with the operator is determined again. It should be understood that operation 704 can be repeated until the offset of one or more speakers meets (e.g., reaches or exceeds) the offset threshold. However, it should also be understood that operation 704 can only be repeated a predefined number of times, after which method 700 terminates.

[0056] However, if it is determined that the offset of one or more speakers meets an offset threshold, method 700 proceeds to operation 708, whereby the content output by one or more speakers (e.g., one or more transducers 152) is adjusted. For example, the adjustment of the content output by one or more speakers is based on position. As another example, the adjustment of the content of one or more speakers alters the content's equalization, content's delay compensation, content's gain compensation, content's sound level, or a combination thereof.

[0057] Figure 8An operating environment conducive to performing one or more systems and methods described herein is illustrated. More specifically, the systems and methods described herein can be implemented using computing device 802. For example, computing device 802 can be a personal computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, handheld computer, server, workstation, mainframe, wearable computer, supercomputer, or a combination thereof. However, it should be understood that the above examples of computing device 802 are not exhaustive, and computing device 802 can be any type of processing or computing device. Computing device 802 typically includes a processor 804, a display adapter 806, one or more input / output ports 808, one or more input / output components 810, a network adapter 812, a power supply 814, and memory 816. However, it should be understood that computing device 802 may include any additional components and may not include any of the listed components (e.g., processor 804, display adapter 806, one or more input / output ports 808, one or more input / output components 810, network adapter 812, power supply 814, and memory 816).

[0058] Processor 804 is configured to provide instructions to computing device 802, enabling computing device 802 to process one or more tasks, including implementing software programs to perform one or more operations as described in more detail herein. It should also be understood that computing device 802 may include any number of processors 804. Display adapter 806 may be a graphics card or video board that enables computing device 802 to display content on display device 818. For example, display device 818 may be any screen, monitor, and / or light-emitting component associated with a personal computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, handheld computer, server, workstation, mainframe, wearable computer, supercomputer, or a combination thereof. However, it should be understood that the above examples of display device 818 are not exhaustive, and display device 818 may be any type of device capable of providing visual display.

[0059] Input / output port 808 provides multiple interfaces (e.g., receptacles) for connecting one or more cables to computing device 802. It should be understood that any number of input / output ports 808 may be present on computing device 802. For example, input / output port 808 provides a means for computing device 802 to receive signals and / or data from an external device connected to computing device 802 via one or more cables. As another example, input / output port 808 provides a means for computing device 802 to transmit signals and / or data to an external device connected to computing device 802 via one or more cables. Input / output component 810 may include one or more components supporting input / output port 808, such as, but not limited to, switches, buttons, pressure pads, float switches, keyboards, radio receivers, or combinations thereof.

[0060] Network adapter 812 can be any type of network interface controller configured to provide means for communicating with another computing device (such as remote computing device 822) via network 820. For example, remote computing device 822 can be a user device such as a cellular phone, smartphone, tablet, laptop, or a combination thereof. Power supply 814 is configured to convert high-voltage current (e.g., AC) to direct current (e.g., DC) to provide stable power to other components of computing device 802 (e.g., processor 804, display adapter 806, one or more input / output ports 808, one or more input / output components 810, network adapter 812, and memory 816).

[0061] Additionally, memory 816 may be a mass storage device and / or system memory, such as a hard disk drive, memory card, solid-state memory, random access memory (RAM), or a combination thereof. Memory 816 is configured to provide storage for instructions and data associated with the operation of computing device 802. Memory 816 may typically include operating system 824, detection software 826, and detection data 828. For example, operating system 824 is configured to manage and / or process any data and / or instructions associated with detection software 826 and / or detection data 828 related to the detection (e.g., identification) of landmarks associated with the operator of the vehicle, as described in more detail herein.

[0062] Furthermore, a system bus 830 is also included within the computing device 802, configured to connect each of the various components of the computing device 802 (e.g., processor 804, display adapter 806, one or more input / output ports 808, one or more input / output components 810, network adapter 812, power supply 814, and memory 816). It should also be understood that the functions associated with each component of the computing device 802 and with each component of the computing device 802 can be implemented in a remote computing device 822. Although Figure 8 The operating environment shown depicts a specific configuration associated with at least the computing device 802, the network 820, and the remote computing device 822, but it should be understood that the operating environment can be configured in any way.

[0063] Therefore, one or more examples of this disclosure provide means for audio position adjustment by automatically adjusting the headrest and / or one or more transducers associated with the vehicle. Specifically, automatic adjustment of the headrest and / or one or more transducers can provide an improved and / or optimal experience for the vehicle operator when one or more transducers are positioned within an acceptable offset threshold from at least one ear of the operator.

[0064] Based on the foregoing, the following provides a general overview of this disclosure, rather than a comprehensive summary. In one or more first embodiments A1, a method is disclosed that includes identifying landmarks associated with an operator of the vehicle. Determining the location associated with the operator based on the identification of the landmarks is also disclosed. Additionally, automatically adjusting the position of one or more speakers disposed within the headrests of the vehicle in response to the determination of the location is also disclosed.

[0065] In a second or more embodiments A2, which may include one or more of the first embodiments A1, the position is based on the operator's body characteristics. The body characteristics include at least one ear of the operator, the operator's nose, the operator's mouth, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof. In a third or more embodiments A3, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the second or more embodiments A2, determining the position includes: analyzing one or more image-related signals based on the marker point via a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein the marker point is a view frame associated with the operator of the vehicle. In a fourth or more embodiments A4, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the third or more embodiments A3, automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the angular position of the one or more speakers.

[0066] In a fifth or more embodiments A5, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the fourth or more embodiments A4, automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the height of the one or more speakers. In a sixth or more embodiments A6, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the fifth or more embodiments A5, the method further includes adjusting the content output by the one or more speakers based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof. In a seventh or more embodiments A7, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the sixth or more embodiments A6, the method further includes adjusting the content output by another speaker based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

[0067] In an eighth or more embodiments A8, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the seventh or more embodiments A7, a system is disclosed including one or more cameras associated with a vehicle, wherein the one or more cameras are configured to identify landmarks associated with an operator of the vehicle. The system also includes a controller associated with the vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to determine a position associated with the operator based on the identification of the landmarks, and in response to the determination of the position, cause adjustment of the position of one or more speakers disposed within a headrest of the vehicle, wherein the headrest is configured to automatically adjust the position of the one or more speakers.

[0068] In a ninth or more embodiments A9, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the eighth or more embodiments A8, the position is based on the operator's body characteristics, and said body characteristics include at least one ear of the operator, the operator's nose, the operator's mouth, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof. In an eleventh or more embodiments A10, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the ninth or more embodiments A9, the controller configured to determine the position is further configured to: analyze one or more image-related signals based on the marker point via a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein said marker point is a view frame associated with the operator of the vehicle. In an eleventh or more embodiments A11, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the eleventh or more embodiments A10, automatic adjustment of the position of said one or more speakers changes the angular position of said one or more speakers. In a twelfth or more embodiments A12, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the eleventh or more embodiments A11, automatic adjustment of the position of said one or more speakers changes the height of said one or more speakers.

[0069] In a thirteenth or more embodiments A13, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the twelfth or more embodiments A12, the controller is further configured to adjust the content output by the one or more speakers based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the volume level of the content, or a combination thereof. In a fourteenth or more embodiments A14, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the thirteenth or more embodiments A13, the controller is further configured to adjust the content output by another speaker based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the volume level of the content, or a combination thereof.

[0070] In a fifteenth or oneth embodiment A15, which may include any combination of the first or one embodiment A1 to the fourteenth or one embodiment A14, a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: identify a landmark associated with an operator of the vehicle; determine a position associated with the operator based on the identification of the landmark; and automatically adjust the position of one or more speakers disposed in the headrests of the vehicle in response to the determination of the position.

[0071] In a sixteenth or more embodiments A16, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the fifteenth or more embodiments A15, the position is based on the operator's body characteristics, and said body characteristics include at least one ear of the operator, the operator's nose, the operator's mouth, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof. In a seventeenth or more embodiments A17, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A1 to the sixteenth or more embodiments A16, the at least one processor is further configured to: analyze one or more image-related signals based on marker points via a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein said marker points are view frames associated with the operator of the vehicle.

[0072] In one eighteenth or more embodiments A18, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A11 to the seventeenth or more embodiments A17, automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the angular position of the one or more speakers. In one nineteenth or more embodiments A19, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A11 to the eighteenth or more embodiments A18, automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the height of the one or more speakers. In one twenty-first or more embodiments A20, which may include any combination of the first or more embodiments A11 to the nineteenth or more embodiments A19, the at least one processor is further caused to: adjust the content output by the one or more speakers based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof; or adjust the content output by another speaker based on the position, wherein the adjustment of the content changes the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

[0073] Unless otherwise expressly stated herein, all numerical values ​​representing mechanical / thermal properties, percentages of composition, dimensions and / or tolerances or other characteristics in describing the scope of this disclosure should be understood to be modified by the words “about” or “approximately”. This modification is necessary for various reasons, including industrial practice, materials, manufacturing and assembly tolerances, and testing capabilities.

[0074] As used in this article, the phrases A, B, and C should be interpreted as meaning the logic of using the non-exclusive logical "or" (A or B or C), and should not be interpreted as meaning "at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C".

[0075] In this application, the terms "controller" and / or "module" may refer to, be part of, or include the following in a system-on-a-chip: application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); digital, analog, or mixed-signal analog / digital discrete circuit; digital, analog, or mixed-signal analog / digital integrated circuit; combinational logic circuit; field-programmable gate array (FPGA); processor circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that executes code; memory circuitry (shared, dedicated, or grouped) that stores code executed by the processor circuitry; other suitable hardware components that provide said functionality (e.g., an operational amplifier circuit integrator as part of a thermal flux data module); or a combination of some or all of the foregoing.

[0076] The term "memory" is a subset of the term "computer-readable medium." As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" does not cover transient electrical or electromagnetic signals propagated through a medium (such as on a carrier wave); the term "computer-readable medium" can therefore be considered tangible and non-transient. Non-limiting examples of non-transient tangible computer-readable media are non-volatile memory circuits (such as flash memory circuits, erasable programmable read-only memory circuits, or mask read-only circuits), volatile memory circuits (such as static random access memory circuits or dynamic random access memory circuits), magnetic storage media (such as analog or digital magnetic tape or hard disk drives), and optical storage media (such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs).

[0077] The apparatus and methods described in this application can be implemented, partially or entirely, by a special-purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions embodied in a computer program. The aforementioned function blocks, flowchart components, and other elements serve as software specifications that can be routinely converted into computer programs by skilled technicians or programmers.

[0078] The description in this disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and therefore, variations that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure are intended to fall within its scope. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method comprising: Identify landmarks associated with the vehicle's operator; The location associated with the operator is determined based on the identification of the marker points; as well as The position of one or more speakers disposed within the headrest of the vehicle is automatically adjusted in response to the determination of the position.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the position is based on the operator's body characteristics, and wherein the body characteristics include at least one ear of the operator, the operator's nose, the operator's mouth, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the position comprises: One or more image-related signals are analyzed based on the markers using a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein the markers are view frames associated with the operator of the vehicle.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the angular position of the one or more speakers.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the height of the one or more speakers.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The content output by the one or more speakers is adjusted based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The content output by another speaker is adjusted based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

8. A system comprising: One or more cameras associated with the vehicle, wherein the one or more cameras are configured to identify landmarks associated with the operator of the vehicle; as well as A controller associated with the vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to: The location associated with the operator is determined based on the identification of the marker points, and In response to the determination of the position, the position of one or more speakers disposed within the headrest of the vehicle is adjusted, wherein the headrest is configured to automatically adjust the position of the one or more speakers.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the position is based on the operator's body characteristics, and wherein the body characteristics include at least one ear of the operator, the operator's nose, the operator's mouth, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the controller configured to determine the location is further configured to: One or more image-related signals are analyzed based on the markers using a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein the markers are view frames associated with the operator of the vehicle.

11. The system of claim 8, wherein automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the angular position of the one or more speakers.

12. The system of claim 8, wherein automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers alters the height of the one or more speakers.

13. The system of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to: The content output by the one or more speakers is adjusted based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to: The content output by another speaker is adjusted based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing one or more processor-executable instructions, which, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: Identify landmarks associated with the vehicle's operator; The location associated with the operator is determined based on the identification of the marker points; and The position of one or more speakers disposed within the headrest of the vehicle is automatically adjusted in response to the determination of the position.

16. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claimed in claim 15, wherein the location is based on the operator's physical characteristics, and wherein the physical characteristics include at least one ear of the operator, the operator's nose, the operator's mouth, the width of the operator's head relative to the operator's face, or a combination thereof.

17. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claimed in claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further caused to: One or more image-related signals are analyzed based on the markers using a vehicle-side algorithm, wherein the markers are view frames associated with the operator of the vehicle.

18. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claimed in claim 15, wherein automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers changes the angular position of the one or more speakers.

19. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claimed in claim 15, wherein automatic adjustment of the position of the one or more speakers alters the height of the one or more speakers.

20. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media as claimed in claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further caused to: The content output by the one or more speakers is adjusted based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the content's equalization, the content's delay compensation, the content's gain compensation, the content's sound level, or a combination thereof; and The content output by another speaker is adjusted based on the location, wherein the adjustment of the content alters the equalization of the content, the delay compensation of the content, the gain compensation of the content, the sound level of the content, or a combination thereof.

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