Instrument for audio testing of loudspeaker of motor vehicle and process for testing loudspeaker using such instrument

Abstract

An instrument for audio testing of motor vehicle speakers, said motor vehicle having: walls defining an interior passenger compartment provided with two seating areas placed side by side for use by a motor vehicle user; and a pair of visors having respective articulation means for articulating to the wall on first and second articulation connections, respectively, at the seating area; the apparatus includes: a support device having a connecting device configured to couple with the first and second hinge connections such that the support device is carried by the wall and located between the seating areas within the passenger compartment; one or more microphones carried by the support device at respective fixed positions and configured to pick up the sound emitted by the speaker and generate a related signal; and a signal processing unit carried by the support device and configured to at least transmit data related to the signal generated by the microphone to the outside of the instrument.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to Italian Patent Application No. 102024000023745, filed on October 24, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to an instrument for audio testing of motor vehicle speakers, particularly at the end of assembly, i.e., final inspection testing, and a method for testing speakers using the instrument. Background Technology

[0004] Typically, at the end of vehicle assembly, operators will perform an audio test on the vehicle's speakers to check if they are working properly.

[0005] The test typically involves emitting multiple predefined sounds with their own constant frequencies through each speaker and measuring the intensity of the emitted predefined sounds through a microphone, such as a microphone installed by the operator inside the vehicle, or a microphone already present in the vehicle for other purposes, such as a microphone for detecting driver and / or passenger voices to provide instructions on vehicle settings or for telephone communication with persons outside the vehicle.

[0006] If the intensity measured for each constant frequency is within the predetermined range, then the test result is qualified.

[0007] However, this testing method, also known as pitch analysis, has significant drawbacks.

[0008] For example, if the constant frequency is outside a certain frequency range, it may be impossible to detect some abnormalities in the sound intensity emitted by the speaker within those frequency ranges.

[0009] Similarly, effects related to the nonlinear behavior of the loudspeaker could not be detected.

[0010] Therefore, it is necessary to perform more precise tests than tone analysis to ensure that customers who purchase motor vehicles receive superior speaker sound quality.

[0011] On the other hand, meeting the above requirements faces some challenges that are not easy to overcome.

[0012] In particular, the test execution time must be matched with the needs of the vehicle production plan.

[0013] Furthermore, the reliability of such more precise tests remains limited because they rely heavily on the precise positioning of the microphone within the vehicle, which is difficult for operators to achieve in a repeatable manner in an assembly line environment. Moreover, the types of microphones currently available in vehicles are not specifically suited for measuring speaker response, particularly regarding the repeatability of the measurement results.

[0014] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to meet the above-mentioned needs, and in particular to overcome the aforementioned challenges in a simple and repeatable manner. Summary of the Invention

[0015] This objective is achieved through an instrument for audio testing of speakers in motor vehicles and a method for testing speakers in motor vehicles.

[0016] In one aspect, an instrument is provided for performing audio testing on speakers in a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having:

[0017] - A wall defining an internal passenger compartment having two side-by-side seating areas for use by users of the motor vehicle (1); and

[0018] - A pair of sun visors, each having a respective hinged device, to be hinged to the wall at least on a first hinged connector and a second hinged connector at the seating area;

[0019] The instrument includes:

[0020] - A support device having a connecting device configured to be coupled to a first hinged connector and a second hinged connector, such that the support device is supported by the wall and located between the seating areas within the passenger compartment;

[0021] - One or more microphones, each held in a fixed position by the support device, and configured to pick up sound emitted by the speaker and generate a related signal; and

[0022] - A signal processing unit, carried by the support device, configured to transmit data related to the signal generated by the microphone to the outside of the instrument.

[0023] In one embodiment, the signal processing unit includes a microphone preamplifier configured to amplify the signal—which consists of a microphone level signal—to generate a corresponding line level signal, wherein the data transmitted by the signal processing unit is a function of the line level signal.

[0024] In one embodiment, the signal processing unit includes a memory and is configured to record the data before transmitting it.

[0025] In one embodiment, a calibration unit is further included, which is carried by the support device and configured to execute a series of calibration instructions to calibrate the one or more microphones in response to a calibration command on the support device.

[0026] In one embodiment, the connecting device includes a first connecting device and a second connecting device, which are respectively configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector and the second hinged connector; the supporting device includes portions that can move relative to each other to adjust the relative distance between the first connecting device and the second connecting device.

[0027] In one embodiment, the portion includes at least: a first portion that carries one of the first connecting device and the second connecting device; and a second portion that is coupled to the first portion in a manner that allows relative movement of the first portion along a linear axis.

[0028] In one embodiment, the portion further includes a third portion that carries another of the first connecting device and the second connecting device and is coupled to the second portion in a manner that allows it to move relative to the second portion along the linear axis; the second portion is arranged between the first portion and the third portion along the linear axis.

[0029] In one embodiment, a mechanism is further included, which can be operated to apply equal and opposite translations to the first portion and the third portion along the linear axis relative to the second portion.

[0030] In one embodiment, the connecting device includes a first connecting device and a second connecting device, or a first connecting device and a second connecting device, wherein the first connecting device and the second connecting device are respectively configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector and the second hinged connector, such that the support device is supported by the wall and located between the seating areas within the passenger compartment.

[0031] In one embodiment, the sun visor has respective hinges for hinged at the seating area to the wall or one of the walls located above the windshield; the first hinge and the second hinge are respectively part of the wall or one of the walls at the seating area.

[0032] In one embodiment, the motor vehicle has:

[0033] - Windshield;

[0034] - A pair of seats arranged immediately behind the windshield along the longitudinal axis of the motor vehicle, and each defining the seating area located between the windshield and the seats along the longitudinal axis.

[0035] In one embodiment, one of the walls is the front wall.

[0036] In one embodiment, one of the walls is located in front of the seat.

[0037] In one embodiment, the sun visor includes a first sun visor and a second sun visor, wherein the hinge device includes a first hinge device of the first sun visor and a second hinge device of the second sun visor; the first hinge device of the first sun visor is hinged to the wall or one of the walls at a first hinge connector and optionally a third hinge connector at a first seating area in the seating area; the second hinge device of the second sun visor is hinged to the wall or one of the walls at a second seating area in the seating area at a second hinge connector and optionally a fourth hinge connector at a second seating area in the seating area; wherein the connecting device includes a first connecting device and a second connecting device, which are respectively configured to be coupled to the first hinge connector and the second hinge connector, such that the support device is supported by the wall or one of the walls and is located between the first seating area and the second seating area in the passenger compartment.

[0038] On the other hand, a method is provided for testing loudspeakers in a motor vehicle, the motor vehicle having: a wall defining an interior passenger compartment having two side-by-side seating areas for use by users of the motor vehicle; and a pair of sun visors having respective hinged devices to be hinged to the wall at least at a first hinged connection and a second hinged connection at the seating areas; the method includes using one embodiment and includes the following steps:

[0039] - The connecting device of the support device of the instrument is coupled to the first hinge connector and the second hinge connector so that the support device is positioned between the seating areas in the passenger compartment;

[0040] - Sound is emitted through a speaker;

[0041] - The emitted sound is picked up by one or more microphones of the instrument and a corresponding signal is generated;

[0042] - Transmit the data associated with the signal generated by the microphone to an external part of the instrument.

[0043] In one embodiment, the emitted sound covers the entire operating spectrum of the loudspeaker, or the range of frequencies audible to humans, particularly the range between 16 Hz and 20,000 Hz. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below to provide a better understanding of the invention; this description is given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the following figures:

[0045] - Figure 1 This is a rear view of the interior of a motor vehicle.

[0046] - Figure 2 Show Figure 1 Inside a motor vehicle, an instrument according to the invention is installed for audio testing of the vehicle's loudspeakers;

[0047] - Figure 3 A diagram illustrating one embodiment of the instrument;

[0048] - Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are schematic diagrams of other embodiments of the instrument. Detailed Implementation

[0049] exist Figure 1 In the attached figure, reference numeral 1 represents a motor vehicle.

[0050] The motor vehicle 1 has multiple walls 2 ( Figure 2 The diagram shows at least one of the walls, such as the front wall 2), which are arranged to define an internal passenger compartment 3.

[0051] For example, in any part of the text, “front wall 2” can be replaced with “one of wall 2”.

[0052] The passenger compartment 3 is provided with at least two seating areas (or seats) P ​​for use by users of the motor vehicle 1 (specifically, the driver and passengers). In other words, these seating areas P are, for example, a driver seating area and a passenger seating area.

[0053] The seating area P is arranged side by side along the lateral axis of the motor vehicle 1 (i.e., the pitch axis, which is a horizontal axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis or roll axis of the motor vehicle 1).

[0054] For a four-door motor vehicle, the seating area P is the front row area along the longitudinal axis.

[0055] In other words, the motor vehicle 1 has a windshield 4 and a pair of seats 5 disposed adjacent to the rear of the windshield 4 along a longitudinal axis, defining the seating area P between the windshield 4 and the seats 5 along the longitudinal axis.

[0056] For example, in other words, seat 5 is a front seat.

[0057] Therefore, for example, the seating area P is defined by the seat 5; for example, the seating area P can be replaced by the seat 5 (in any part of this document).

[0058] For example, the seats 5 are arranged side by side along the lateral axis (i.e., pitch axis) of the motor vehicle 1.

[0059] The wall 2 includes, for example, one of the walls 2 (which may be referred to herein as front wall 2, such as front wall 2 of passenger compartment 3), which is located, for example (extending or located) above or immediately above the windshield 4 and / or along the longitudinal axis in front of the seat 5 and / or along the longitudinal axis between the windshield 4 and the seat 5.

[0060] Alternatively or additionally, the front wall 2 defines the passenger compartment 3 along the longitudinal axis in front and / or the front wall 2 extends along the longitudinal axis or is located behind the windshield 4 (e.g., from the windshield 4).

[0061] The motor vehicle 1 also includes one or more speakers 11 (shown schematically), arranged, for example, in a known configuration, and therefore not described in detail.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, the motor vehicle 1 includes a pair of sun visors 6 corresponding to two seating areas P respectively.

[0063] The sun visor 6 is hinged or can be hinged to the wall 2, more precisely the front wall 2, especially above the windshield 4, located at the two aforementioned seating areas P respectively.

[0064] Alternatively or otherwise, the sun visor 6 is located along the longitudinal axis between the windshield 4 and the seat 5, for example, since the seating area P is defined by the seat 5, it is located along the longitudinal axis between the windshield and the seat 5.

[0065] Alternatively or additionally, the sun visor 6 is hinged or hingeable to the front wall 2 (which, for example, is located above or immediately above the windshield 4 and / or in front of the seat 5 along the longitudinal axis), for example, since the sun visor 6 is hinged or hingeable to the windshield 4 respectively at the two aforementioned seating areas P, i.e., at the location of the front wall 2.

[0066] Therefore, the sunshade 6 is supported by the wall 2, or more precisely, by the front wall 2 (or at or on the wall 2, or more precisely, at or on the front wall 2) in a manner rotatable about their respective hinge axes H, which are preferably horizontal and more preferably parallel to the pitch axis.

[0067] Each sun visor 6 has a hinge device or hinge component 7, 8, which includes, for example, a respective pin configured to hinge to a respective hinge connector 9, 10, which includes, for example, a bushing designed to receive the pin in a relatively rotatable manner.

[0068] The hinge connectors 9 and 10, which are used to hinge the corresponding sun visor 6, are located in the corresponding seating area P or in front of the corresponding seating area P.

[0069] In other words, the sunshade 6 has its own hinge device or hinge component 7, 8 (in Figure 2 In a specific, non-limiting example, a first pair of hinged components 7, 8 and a second pair of hinged components 7, 8 are (e.g., above the windshield 4) hinged (e.g., above the windshield 4) to at least a first hinged connector 9 and a second hinged connector 10 (or a first pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 and a second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10) of the wall 2 or front wall 2, respectively, located in the seating area P. The first and second hinged connectors 9, 10 (or the first pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 and the second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10) are located in the seating area P or in front of the seating area P.

[0070] In other words, one of the hinge devices or hinge components 7 and 8 (in Figure 2 In the middle, the hinge device or hinge component 7 of one of the sun visors 6 is configured to hinge the sun visor 6 to a first hinge connector 9 located at a relevant seating area P (the first hinge connector 9 is located at the relevant seating area P); the other of the hinge device or hinge component 7, 8 (in Figure 2 In the middle, the hinge device or hinge component 8 of the other sun visor 6 is configured to hinge the other sun visor 6 to a second hinge connector 10 located in another seating area P (the second hinge connector 10 is located in the other seating area P).

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, the relevant first pair of hinged components 7, 8 are configured to hinge the relevant sun visor 6 to the relevant first pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 located in the relevant seating area P respectively; the relevant second pair of hinged components 7, 8 are configured to hinge another relevant sun visor 6 to the relevant second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 located in another relevant seating area P respectively.

[0072] For example, the hinged connectors 9 and 10 are wall 2 or constitute part of wall 2, or more precisely, front wall 2 or constitute part of front wall 2, and / or located on wall 2, or more precisely, located on front wall 2.

[0073] Alternatively or otherwise, in Figure 2 In the specific example shown, the wall 2 has, or the front wall 2 has, two hinged connectors 9, 10, namely a first pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 located (and / or associated with) one of the seating areas P, and two other hinged connectors 9, 10, namely a second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 located (and / or associated with) another seating area P. Thus, for example, one sun visor 6 has a first pair of hinged members 7, 8 configured to be hinged to the respective first pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 located in the associated seating area P; the other sun visor 6 has a second pair of hinged members 7, 8 configured to be hinged to the respective second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 located in the associated seating area P.

[0074] Alternatively or additionally, the first pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 are located in front of one of the seats 5, just as the second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10 are located in front of the other seat 5.

[0075] Alternatively or otherwise, the hinged connectors 9 and 10 are located in front of the seat 5.

[0076] Alternatively or additionally, the hinged connectors 9, 10 more generally form part of the motor vehicle 1 (e.g., rather than part of the wall 2 or the front wall 2) and are carried by the wall 2 or the front wall 2.

[0077] Alternatively or otherwise, for example, since the sun visor 6 is hinged or can be hinged to the wall 2, or more precisely the front wall 2 above the windshield 4, and is located at the two seating areas P respectively, the hinged connectors 9, 10 (or the two pairs of hinged connectors 9, 10) are located above or immediately above the windshield 4, and / or along the longitudinal axis in front of the seat 5, and / or along the longitudinal axis between the windshield 4 and the seat 5.

[0078] According to other examples, the hinge components 7 and 8 may be or may include bushings, just as the hinge connectors 9 and 10 may be or may include pins.

[0079] Furthermore, according to certain embodiments, even just one of the hinge components 7 and 8 is sufficient to hinge the corresponding sun visor 6 to the wall 2, more specifically the front wall 2, by coupling it with one of the associated hinge connectors 9 and 10, thus allowing the other of the hinge components 7 and 8 and the associated one of the hinge connectors 9 and 10 to be absent. For example, in this case (not shown), the sun visor 6 has a corresponding hinge component (e.g., each sun visor 6 has one hinge component) which is respectively hinged to the hinge connectors of the wall 2 or the front wall 2 located in the respective seating area P (each located in an associated seating area P). In other words, the wall 2 has or the front wall 2 has a hinge connector located in (and / or associated with) one of the seating areas P, and another hinge connector located in (and / or associated with) the other seating area P. Here, for example, each hinge component of the sun visor 6 is configured to be hinged to a hinge connector, which is located (and / or associated with) the seating area P, thereby hinged the sun visor 6 to the wall 2 or the front wall 2, which is located in the seating area P.

[0080] The sunshade 6 can be detached from the wall 2, in particular by releasing the hinged parts 7, 8 from the associated hinged connectors 9, 10.

[0081] exist Figure 2 In this process, the sun visor 6 is disassembled, specifically partially disassembled, because the hinge component 7 of one of the sun visors 6 is released from an associated hinge connector 9 (the innermost one according to the pitch axis), just as the hinge component 8 of the other sun visor 6 is released from an associated hinge connector 10 (the innermost one according to the pitch axis).

[0082] Therefore, one of the hinged connectors 9 and one of the hinged connectors 10 (particularly the most central or innermost one according to the pitch axis) can be used to couple other components.

[0083] exist Figure 2 In the middle, an instrument 12 for performing audio tests on one or more speakers 11 is coupled to one of the hinged connectors 9 and 10 located in two seating areas P.

[0084] For example, one of the hinged connectors 9 is located (or associated with) one of the seating areas P, while one of the hinged connectors 10 is located (or associated with) another seating area P.

[0085] More specifically, the instrument 12 includes a support device or support member 13 having connecting devices 14, 15 configured (particularly configured to) couple to the hinged connectors 9, 10 located at the two seating areas P respectively (e.g., associated with or located at the seating area P respectively). Thus, the instrument 12 is supported by the wall 2 or the front wall 2 within the passenger compartment 3 between the two seating areas P, for example, along the pitch axis.

[0086] For example, the connecting devices 14, 15 can be replaced by attachment means (or vice versa, the attachment means can be replaced by the connecting devices 14, 15), which are configured to be coupled to the hinged connectors 9, 10, so that the support 13 is carried by the wall 2 or the front wall 2 between the two seating areas P in the passenger compartment 3, for example, along the pitch axis.

[0087] For example, the connecting device 14 is configured to couple with one of the hinged connectors 9, 10 (e.g., the first pair), particularly (but not necessarily) with the hinged connector 9 (e.g., the innermost one according to the pitch axis) to couple one of the hinged components 7, 8 of one of the sun visors 6 (particularly hinged component 7) in a seating area P. Figure 2 The connecting device 15 is hinged at the left-side seating area. The connecting device 15 is configured to couple with one of the hinged connectors 9, 10 (e.g., the second pair), particularly (but not necessarily) with the hinged connector 10 (e.g., the innermost one according to the pitch axis), to couple one of the hinged components 7, 8 of the other sun visor 6 (particularly hinged component 8) to the other seating area P (… Figure 2 The right-side seating area is hinged.

[0088] In particular, the connecting devices 14 and 15 are configured to hinge the support member 13 to the hinged connectors 9 and 10 (in Figure 2 In the example, the hinged connectors are located at the innermost sides of the two seating areas P or associated with the two seating areas P, respectively, so that the support 13 can rotate relative to the wall 2 or the front wall 2, or more precisely, about a hinge axis parallel to the axis H.

[0089] For example, the connecting devices 14 and 15 are configured to hinge the support member 13 to the hinged connectors 9 and 10, respectively, with the hinged connectors 9 and 10 forming part of the relevant first pair and the relevant second pair, respectively.

[0090] For example, if the hinged connectors 9 and 10 include pins designed to couple with the bushings, then the connecting devices 14 and 15 may include bushings; if the hinged connectors include bushings designed to receive the pins, then the connecting devices may include pins (as shown herein).

[0091] According to other examples, the connecting devices 14, 15 may be configured to be coupled to the hinged connectors 9, 10 by interference, thereby keeping the support 13 fixed relative to the wall 2 or more precisely relative to the front wall 2.

[0092] like Figure 2As shown, the sun visor 6 includes a first sun visor 6 and a second sun visor 6. The first sun visor 6 has a first hinge device or hinge component 7, 8 (particularly two first hinge components 7, 8) which is hinged to the wall 2 or the front wall 2 at a first seating area P in the seating area P at a first hinge connector 9 and an optional third hinge connector 10 (i.e., optionally, a first pair of hinge connectors 9, 10) on the wall 2 or the front wall 2. For example, the first and third hinge connectors 9, 10 are located in the first seating area P (i.e., they are close to or associated with or completely located within the first seating area P), for example along a longitudinal axis, on the front wall 2 and / or above the windshield 4 and / or in front of the first seat in the seat 5 and / or between the first seat in the seat 5 and the windshield 4. For example, the first hinge components 7, 8 are configured to hinge to the first and third hinge connectors 9, 10 respectively to hinge the first sun visor 6 to the wall 2 or the front wall 2 in the first seating area P. As described above, for example, the first or third hinged connector may be eliminated or absent, and one of the first hinged components 7, 8 may be eliminated or absent. The second sun visor 6 has second hinge devices or components 7, 8 (particularly two second hinged components 7, 8) that are hinged to the wall 2 or the front wall 2 at the second seating area P in the seating area P on the fourth (optional) hinged connector 9 and the second hinged connector 10 (i.e., optionally, a second pair of hinged connectors 9, 10) of the wall 2 or the front wall 2. For example, the fourth and second hinged connectors 9, 10 are located in the second seating area P, for example along the longitudinal axis on the front wall 2 and / or above the windshield 4 and / or in front of the second seat in the seat 5 and / or between the second seat in the seat 5 and the windshield 4. For example, the second hinged components 7, 8 are configured to be hinged to the fourth and second hinged connectors 9, 10 respectively to hinge the second sun visor 6 to the wall 2 or the front wall 2 in the second seating area P. As described above, for example, the fourth or second hinged connector may be eliminated or absent, and one of the second hinged components 7 and 8 may be eliminated or absent. The support member 13 has first and second connecting devices 14 and 15. Connecting device 14 is configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector 9 or the third hinged connector 10, while connecting device 15 is configured to be coupled to the second hinged connector 10 or the fourth hinged connector 9, thereby allowing the support member 13 to be carried by the wall 2 or the front wall 2 between the first and second seating areas P within the passenger compartment 3, i.e., between the seating areas P. In other words, connecting devices 14 and 15 are respectively configured to be coupled to the first or third hinged connector and the second or fourth hinged connector, thereby allowing the support member 13 to be carried by the wall 2 or the front wall 2 between the first and second seating areas P within the passenger compartment 3, i.e., between the seating areas P.

[0093] In addition to the support member 13, the instrument 12 also includes one or more microphones 16, which are carried by the support member 13 in their respective fixed positions. More precisely, the microphones 16 are fixed or coupled to the support member 13, particularly via electrical connectors 17, more specifically BNC type, fixed to the support member 13. However, this is not a strict limitation, as the electrical connectors 17 can be other types, such as XLR, LEMO, etc.; furthermore, the microphones 16 can be indirectly fixed or coupled to the support member 13, as they are fixed or coupled to an associated acquisition board (not specifically shown herein), which is in turn fixed to the support member 13. For example, the microphones 16 may include MEMS microphones directly attached or coupled to the acquisition board.

[0094] Preferably, the microphones 16 are also fixed to the support 13 independently of coupling with the electrical connector 17, for example, they are inserted into holes in the support 13 or tightened to the support 13 by means of threads.

[0095] exist Figure 4 , 5 In this embodiment, the microphones 16 are preferably aligned with each other along axis K, which is parallel to the pitch axis when the support 13 is coupled to the wall 2.

[0096] More specifically, the microphones 16 are arranged sequentially along the axis K, and the distance between each microphone 16 and the next microphone along the axis K is a constant value.

[0097] Preferably, such as Figure 3-5 As shown, the support member 13 extends along the axis W, particularly parallel to or coincident with the axis K, and is symmetrical with respect to an axis or plane L orthogonal to the axis W.

[0098] exist Figure 4 , 5 In this embodiment, the microphones 16 are also arranged symmetrically with respect to the plane L.

[0099] exist Figure 3 In one embodiment, the instrument 12 has a single microphone 16, specifically located in the plane L, or in other words, at the center of the support 13 along the axis W.

[0100] Obviously, in each disclosed embodiment, the number of microphones 16 can vary without loss of generality. In particular, Figure 4 , 5 The implementation can also have a single microphone 16, as... Figure 3The implementation may have multiple microphones 16, and can... Figure 4 , 5 All or part of the arrangement features described in the embodiments are applied to these microphones.

[0101] The microphone 16 is configured to pick up the sound emitted by the speaker 11 and generate a related signal, particularly (but not necessarily) a microphone-level signal. This microphone-level signal represents the sound emitted by the speaker 11, and therefore, in particular, carries information that allows tracing the emitted sound or characteristic information of the emitted sound. In other words, the term "represents" expresses the possibility of tracing the indicated content in a direct and explicit manner.

[0102] For example, the microphone level signal is a time-domain signal (specifically, but not necessarily, a voltage signal), especially an analog signal, used to represent the intensity or sound pressure of the emitted sound; in particular, when the signal corresponds to the intensity or sound pressure of the emitted sound, this correspondence is achieved, for example, through gain.

[0103] More specifically, the microphone 16 is configured to generate a signal, particularly a microphone level signal, and more particularly, the signal representing the intensity or sound pressure of the emitted sound, having a frequency range between 16 Hz and 20,000 Hz, i.e., the frequency range that is audible to humans.

[0104] The instrument 12 also includes a signal processing unit 18 carried by (particularly fixed to) the support 13, the signal processing unit being configured to transmit at least the data related to the signal generated by the microphone to the outside of the instrument.

[0105] The data (which may also be a signal) represents the emitted sound, that is, it carries information that can trace the emitted sound or the characteristics of the emitted sound.

[0106] Therefore, the data directly depends on the microphone level signal, or is a function of the microphone level signal.

[0107] For example, the data may be derived from sampling the conditioned signal obtained after conditioning the microphone level signal, or from the spectral representation or frequency domain representation of the conditioned signal, which may be obtained after sampling the conditioned signal.

[0108] Preferably, the signal processing unit 18 includes a microphone preamplifier 19, which is configured to amplify the microphone level signal to generate or output a corresponding line-level signal.

[0109] Specifically, the line-level signal maintains substantially the same frequency as the microphone-level signal, but the amplitude or intensity associated with these frequencies is greater than that of the microphone-level signal. More specifically, for example, the voltage value of the microphone-level signal is boosted by a gain increase in the line-level signal.

[0110] The line level signal can be output in digital form by the microphone preamplifier 19, or, without loss of generality, in analog form.

[0111] Preferably, the data transmitted by the signal processing unit 18 directly depends on the line level signal, or is a function of the line level signal, which in turn is a function of the microphone level signal, as previously described.

[0112] Therefore, the transmitted data may be defined, for example, by a signal obtained by sampling the line level signal, or may even be consistent with the line level signal.

[0113] For example, in Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the signal processing unit 18 includes a transmitter 20a configured to transmit the line-level signal or, more generally, related data to an external part of the instrument, such as to a processing unit EOL (e.g., an external processing unit), which is specifically configured to perform audio testing on the speaker 11 based on the transmitted data, i.e., particularly to analyze the frequency response of the speaker 11.

[0114] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, in addition to the transmitter 20b, the signal processing unit 18 also includes a memory 21 configured to record data before data transmission.

[0115] In other words, the signal processing unit 18 is configured to generate data to be transmitted starting from the signal generated by the microphone 16, and store the generated data in the memory 21 before actual transmission (specifically by the transmitter 20b).

[0116] In fact, the transmitter 20b is configured to transmit data stored or recorded in the memory 21 to the outside of the instrument 12, in particular to the external processing unit EOL.

[0117] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the processing unit EOL is part of the signal processing unit 18, and therefore it is supported by the support 13 of the instrument 12, or more specifically, it is fixed to the support 13.

[0118] exist Figure 5In the illustrated embodiment, the processing unit EOL is configured to communicate or transmit data to an external unit ECU, for example, the data being related to or associated with the signal generated by the microphone 16.

[0119] The processing unit EOL can be configured to perform various processing on the microphone level signal, the line level signal, or the data transmitted by the signal processing unit 18 (if applicable).

[0120] For example, if the line level signal or the microphone level signal is an analog signal, the processing unit EOL can sample it; or, it can determine the spectral representation of the line level signal or the microphone level signal.

[0121] More generally, the processing unit EOL is configured to extract information representing the sound or its characteristics emitted by the speaker 11 from data transmitted from the signal processing unit 18, from the line level signal, or from the microphone level signal.

[0122] Furthermore, the processing unit EOL is configured to perform an audio test by comparing the extracted information with a corresponding reference specification and verifying whether the extracted information meets a predetermined relationship with the reference specification, the reference specification representing the acceptable quality conditions of the sound emitted by the speaker 11.

[0123] If the predetermined relationship is met, the test passes; otherwise, the test fails, and intervention is required for the speaker 11, such as replacement, or intervention is required for the structure of the motor vehicle 1 that carries or houses the speaker 11.

[0124] For example, the extracted information includes characteristic parameters of the emitted sound or those defined by such characteristic parameters. Specifically, the characteristic parameters may be the intensity or amplitude associated with a relative frequency of the spectral representation of the line-level signal or the microphone-level signal.

[0125] In this case, for example, the predetermined relationship that must be satisfied to pass the test is that the value of the characteristic parameter (intensity or amplitude) is within a predefined range, specifically for each frequency.

[0126] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the test can be performed directly on the instrument 12 board by the processing unit EOL by extracting information from the line level signal or the microphone level signal. In this case, the data transmitted to the outside of the instrument can be defined, for example, by the result of the test or the information extracted by the processing unit EOL, so that the test can be performed alternatively or additionally by the external unit 21.

[0127] Preferably, the microphone 16 and the signal processing unit 18 (in particular one or more of its components) are powered by one or more power storage devices 22 (e.g., batteries or capacitors) of the instrument 12, which are carried by the instrument 12, or more specifically, fixed to the instrument 12.

[0128] Conveniently, the instrument 12 includes a calibration unit 23 supported by the support 13, and more specifically, fixed to the support 13.

[0129] The calibration unit 23 is configured to execute a series of calibration instructions in response to the operation of the calibration command 24 on the support 13 to calibrate one or more microphones 16.

[0130] The calibration command 24 is part of the instrument 12 and can be specifically operated by an operator. Specifically, the calibration command 24 is movable relative to the support 13, at least between a neutral position (where the calibration command 24 is inert) and an active position, in which the calibration unit 23 executes the series of calibration instructions. For example, the calibration command 24 could be a button. Thus, when the calibration command 24 is brought to the active position, it is operated.

[0131] The instrument 12 may also include a selection command 25 configured to allow selection of one or more microphones 16 to be calibrated by the calibration unit 23 in response to an operation of the calibration command 24. Essentially, by operating the calibration command 24, the calibration unit 23 executes calibration instructions on the selected microphones 16 (one or more) via the selection command 25.

[0132] Executing the series of calibration instructions includes: the microphone 16 picking up a predefined calibration sound (e.g., emitted by one of the speakers 11), and the calibration unit 23 comparing the picked-up sound (i.e., the characteristic parameters of the sound extracted by the calibration unit 23 from the microphone level signal associated with the picked-up sound) with a stored reference value, and adjusting the microphone 16 until the difference between the picked-up sound and the reference value falls within a predetermined tolerance range.

[0133] Preferably, the instrument 12 includes an indicator 26 located on the support 13 for indicating to the operator the microphone 16 (one or more) selected by the selection command 25.

[0134] Alternatively or additionally, the instrument 12 may include one or more other indicators located on the support 13, such as an indicator 27 for indicating to the operator the charge level of the storage device 22, or an indicator 28 for indicating the operating status (e.g., malfunction, normal operation, abnormal status, etc.) of one or more microphones 16.

[0135] Preferably, the instrument 12 may include one or more connectors, particularly USB connectors, for connecting peripheral devices, such as... Figure 5 In the embodiment, connector 29 is used to transmit data generated by the processing unit EOL, or connector 29b is used to connect to the storage device 22 to charge the storage device 22.

[0136] In a more detailed description of the support member 13, it includes at least two parts 30, 31 that are movable relative to each other for adjusting the relative distance between the connecting devices 14, 15 (particularly along the axis W).

[0137] The portion 30 carries (in particular, in a fixed manner relative to it) the connecting device 14 and is coupled to the portion 31 in a relatively movable manner (in particular, in a translational manner) along a straight axis (in particular, coinciding with axis W).

[0138] More specifically, the support member 13 includes another portion 32 that carries (in particular, fixed relative to it) the connecting device 15 and is coupled to the portion 31 in a relatively movable manner (in particular, translational manner) along the linear axis (in particular axis W).

[0139] Therefore, portion 31 defines the middle portion of the support member 13 between portions 30 and 32 according to the straight axis (specifically axis W). In other words, along the straight axis, portion 31 is located between portions 30 and 32.

[0140] In detail, the portions 30 and 32 each include a respective arm, the ends 30b and 32b of which are coupled to the portion 31 in a translational manner along the linear axis (in particular axis W) relative to the portion 31, and their respective opposite ends are defined by the connecting devices 14 and 15.

[0141] The arms each have a first segment, the first segment respectively including the end portions 30b and 32b, and extending along the same straight axis (here, axis W), i.e., aligned along the straight axis (e.g. Figure 3-5(As shown). In addition, each arm also has a second segment, which includes the connecting devices 14 and 15 respectively, and extends along their respective axes R, which are orthogonal to the linear axis (in this case, axis W). More specifically, the connecting devices 14 and 15 are spaced equidistant from the linear axis along the relevant axis R.

[0142] Preferably, the portion 31 is centered relative to the portions 30 and 32 according to the linear axis (here, axis W).

[0143] Specifically, the instrument 12 includes a mechanism 35 that can be operated to apply equal and opposite translational movements to the portions 30 and 32 along the linear axis relative to the portion 31.

[0144] Specifically, the mechanism 35 includes a sprocket 36 and two racks 37 and 38, which are fixed relative to the portions 30 and 32, respectively. Both racks engage with the sprocket 36 at two opposite points on its diameter and are guided in a translational manner on the support 13 along their respective axes, which are parallel to the linear axis (here, axis W). More specifically, the sprocket 36 is rotatably supported by the support 13 and rotates about an axis orthogonal to the linear axis.

[0145] The mechanism 35 can be operated to cause the sprocket 36 to rotate, for example by manual operation via a fixed knob (not shown) coaxial with the sprocket 36, the knob being rotatably supported by the support 13; or by operation via an actuator (not shown), such as an electric actuator.

[0146] Preferably, the support member 13 has a core, which is made of, for example, plastic; and has one or more coatings 39, 40 covering various portions of the core. For example, coating 39 covers the microphone 16 and preferably includes a sound-permeable foam. In particular, coating 40 includes foam for absorbing energy or preventing impact and specifically covers the remaining portions of the support member 13 not covered by coating 39, while leaving the connecting devices 14, 15 free for connection with the hinged connectors 9, 10.

[0147] The following is a description of a method for testing the one or more loudspeakers 11 using the instrument 12.

[0148] The method includes the following steps: coupling or attaching the connecting devices 14, 15 to their respective hinged connectors 9, 10 to place the support 13 between the two seating areas P within the passenger compartment 3, particularly the seating areas of the driver and passenger, i.e., specifically, hinged the support 13 to the wall 2, more precisely, to the front wall 2; emitting sound through the speaker 11; picking up the emitted sound through the microphone 16 and generating a related signal, specifically a microphone level signal; and transmitting the data associated with the signal generated by the microphone 16 to the outside of the instrument 12, particularly through the signal processing unit 18.

[0149] The testing of the speaker 11 can be completed through the processing unit EOL, for example, based on the data transmitted by the signal processing unit 18. If the unit EOL is an external unit, the testing is completed in the manner described above. Alternatively, when the processing unit EOL is supported by the support member 13, the transmitted data may also be generated by the processing unit EOL, for example, as a test result or output, also in the manner described above.

[0150] Preferably, the sound emitted by the speaker 11 covers the entire operating spectrum of the speaker 11 or the frequency range defined within the human audible frequency range, particularly between 16 Hz and 20000 Hz. This provides a richer spectral representation of the line-level signal or the microphone-level signal, enabling the identification of all possible anomalies, such as high-frequency noise or sound distortion.

[0151] In other words, the loudspeaker 11 emits sound with all frequencies within a continuous or substantially continuous frequency range (particularly between 16 Hz and 20000 Hz or the range of frequencies audible to humans), and more specifically, the sound is emitted in response to or in accordance with a command signal of the type of “chirp” or “exponential sine sweep” of the loudspeaker 11.

[0152] For the reasons stated above, the advantages of the instrument 12 and method of the present invention are obvious.

[0153] The instrument 12 allows the microphone 16 to be correctly positioned in a repeatable manner within the passenger cabin 3, thereby enabling accurate audio testing in a precise and reliable manner.

[0154] The presence of multiple microphones 16 is advantageous because the microphone level signals they generate and / or the line level signals and / or related data output by the microphone preamplifier 19 can be averaged or aggregated with each other (e.g., by arithmetic averaging or other aggregation functions), for example, by the processing unit EOL. In this way, the execution of the test takes into account information related to multiple points in the space in an aggregated or averaged manner, thus minimizing, for example, the influence of any particular phenomenon located in a small space.

[0155] The mobility of the portions 30 and 32 relative to the portion 31 allows the instrument 12 to be adapted to different vehicles.

[0156] Furthermore, the memory 21 ensures the correct transmission of the collected data because it provides a buffer in the event of data transmission delays.

[0157] Finally, the instrument 12 and the method of the present invention can be modified and varied, but such modifications and variations do not exceed the scope of protection set forth in the appended claims.

[0158] In particular, the number and shape of each of the components described and illustrated herein may vary.

[0159] Furthermore, the various embodiments described can be combined with each other without any limitation, especially regarding the various features described in different paragraphs of the specification. Each of these features can be applied independently to each disclosed embodiment.

Claims

1. An instrument (12) for performing audio testing on a loudspeaker (11) of a motor vehicle (1), said motor vehicle having: - A wall (2) defining an internal passenger compartment (3) having two side-by-side seating areas (P) for use by users of the motor vehicle (1); and - A pair of sun visors (6) having their respective hinge devices (7, 8) to be hinged to the wall (2) at the seating area (P) at least on the first hinge connector (9) and the second hinge connector (10) of the wall (2); The instrument (12) includes: - A support device (13) having connecting devices (14, 15) configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector (9) and the second hinged connector (10) such that the support device (13) is supported by the wall (2) and located between the seating areas (P) within the passenger compartment (3); - One or more microphones (16), each held in a fixed position by the support device (13), and configured to pick up sound emitted by the speaker (11) and generate a related signal; and - A signal processing unit (18), which is carried by the support device (13) and configured to transmit at least the data related to the signal generated by the microphone (16) to the outside of the instrument (12).

2. The instrument according to claim 1, wherein, The signal processing unit (18) includes a microphone preamplifier (19) configured to amplify the signal, which consists of a microphone level signal, thereby generating a corresponding line level signal, and the data transmitted by the signal processing unit (18) is a function of the line level signal.

3. The instrument according to claim 1, wherein, The signal processing unit (18) includes a memory (21) and is configured to record the data before transmitting the data.

4. The instrument according to claim 1 further includes a calibration unit (23), the calibration unit being carried by the support device (13) and configured to: execute a series of calibration instructions to calibrate the one or more microphones (16) in response to the operation of a calibration command (24) on the support device (13).

5. The instrument according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting devices (14, 15) include a first connecting device (14) and a second connecting device (15), which are respectively configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector (9) and the second hinged connector (10); the support device (13) includes portions (30, 31, 32) that can move relative to each other to adjust the relative distance between the first connecting device (14) and the second connecting device (15).

6. The instrument according to claim 5, wherein, The portions (30, 31, 32) include at least: a first portion (30) that carries one of the first connecting device (14) and the second connecting device (15); and a second portion (31) that is coupled to the first portion (30) in a manner that allows relative movement of the first portion (30) along a linear axis (W).

7. The instrument according to claim 6, wherein, The portions (30, 31, 32) further include a third portion (32) which carries another of the first connecting device (14) and the second connecting device (15) and is coupled to the second portion (31) in a manner that allows it to move relative to the second portion (31) along the straight axis (W); the second portion (31) is arranged between the first portion (30) and the third portion (32) along the straight axis (W).

8. The instrument according to claim 7 further includes a mechanism (35) operable to apply equal and opposite translations to the first part (30) and the third part (32) along the linear axis (W) relative to the second part (31).

9. The instrument according to claim 1, wherein, The connecting devices (14, 15) include a first connecting device (14) and a second connecting device (15) or a first connecting device (14) and a second connecting device (15), the first connecting device (14) and the second connecting device (15) being respectively configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector (9) and the second hinged connector (10), such that the support device (13) is supported by the wall (2) and located between the seating areas (P) in the passenger compartment (3).

10. The instrument according to claim 9, wherein, The sun visor (6) has its own hinge devices (7, 8) for hinged at the seating area (P) to the wall (2) or one of the walls (2) above the windshield (4); the first hinge connector and the second hinge connector are respectively part of one of the walls (2) or the wall (2) at the seating area (P).

11. The instrument according to claim 1, wherein, The motor vehicle (1) has: - Windshield (4); - A pair of seats (5) are arranged immediately behind the windshield (4) along the longitudinal axis of the motor vehicle (1) and define the seating area (P) between the windshield (4) and the seats (5) along the longitudinal axis.

12. The instrument according to claim 11, wherein one of the walls (2) is the front wall.

13. The instrument according to claim 11, wherein one of the walls (2) is located in front of the seat (5).

14. The instrument according to claim 1, wherein, The sun visor (6) includes a first sun visor (6) and a second sun visor (6), wherein the hinge devices (7, 8) include a first hinge device (7, 8) of the first sun visor (6) and a second hinge device (7, 8) of the second sun visor (6); the first hinge device (7, 8) of the first sun visor (6) is hinged to the first hinge connector (9) and optionally a third hinge connector of one of the walls (2) in the first seating area (P) of the seating area (P); the second hinge device (7, 8) of the second sun visor (6) is hinged to the wall (2) of one of the walls (2) in the first seating area (P); The second seating area (P) of the seating area (P) is hinged to one of the walls (2) on the second hinged connector (10) and optionally the fourth hinged connector; wherein the connecting device includes a first connecting device (14) and a second connecting device (15), which are respectively configured to be coupled to the first hinged connector (9) and the second hinged connector (10), such that the support device (13) is carried by one of the walls (2) and is located in the passenger compartment (3) between the first seating area (P) and the second seating area (P).

15. A method for testing a loudspeaker (11) of a motor vehicle (1), the motor vehicle having: a wall (2) defining an interior passenger compartment (3) having two side-by-side seating areas (P) for use by a user of the motor vehicle (1); and a pair of sun visors (6) having respective hinged devices (7, 8) to be hinged to the wall (2) at least at a first hinged connector (9) and a second hinged connector (10) of the wall (2) at the seating areas (P); the method comprising using an instrument (12) according to claim 1, and comprising the following steps: - The connecting devices (14, 15) of the support device (13) of the instrument (12) are coupled to the first hinge connector (9) and the second hinge connector (10) so that the support device (13) is positioned between the seating areas (P) in the passenger compartment (3); - Sound is emitted through the speaker (11); - The emitted sound is picked up by one or more microphones (16) of the instrument (12) and a corresponding signal is generated; - Transmit the data associated with the signal generated by the microphone (16) to the outside of the instrument (12).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The emitted sound covers the entire operating spectrum of the loudspeaker (11), or the range of frequencies audible to humans, particularly the range between 16 Hz and 20,000 Hz.

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