A vehicle-mounted audio system, a control method thereof, and a vehicle

Abstract

This invention discloses an in-vehicle audio system, its control method, and a vehicle. The in-vehicle audio system includes a main control module and at least two playback areas. Each playback area includes an area control module and at least one first audio device. The area control module includes a control unit, a first audio slave, and a second audio master. The first audio slave is connected to the second audio master, the control unit is connected to both the first audio slave and the second audio master, and the second audio master is connected to the first audio device. The main control module transmits audio signals to each first audio slave via a first communication line and sends playback control signals to each control unit via a second communication line. The control unit controls whether the corresponding first audio slave sends an audio signal or whether the corresponding second audio master sends an audio signal according to the playback control signal. The technical solution of this invention improves the implementation of zoned playback in the in-vehicle audio system, enhancing the user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle audio technology, and more particularly to a vehicle audio system and its control method, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With the widespread use and rapid development of automobiles, more and more users are beginning to pursue better audio effects.

[0003] Traditional in-vehicle audio systems typically use a single Automotive Audio Bus (A2B), with one master controller connected in series with multiple slave units (microphones or amplifiers / speakers). This simple design prevents the audio from being played in separate zones. Furthermore, the number of slave nodes connected in series on a single A2B bus is limited, which cannot support the needs of more speakers to achieve better tone and sound effects, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0004] Therefore, existing in-vehicle audio systems suffer from the inability to play content in different zones, resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides an in-vehicle audio system and its control method, as well as a vehicle, which solves the problem that in-vehicle audio systems cannot play in different zones and have a poor user experience.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, an in-vehicle audio system is provided, the in-vehicle audio system comprising: a main control module and at least two playback areas, each playback area comprising an area control module and at least one first audio device; The area control module includes a control unit, a first audio slave unit, and a second audio master unit. The first audio slave unit is connected to the second audio master unit. The control unit is connected to both the first audio slave unit and the second audio master unit. The second audio master unit is connected to the first audio device. The main control module is connected in series with each of the first audio slave units via a first communication line, and is connected to each of the control units via a second communication line. The main control module is used to transmit audio signals to each of the first audio slave units via the first communication line, and to send playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line. The control unit is used to control whether the corresponding first audio slave unit sends an audio signal to the corresponding second audio host, or to control whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, according to the playback control signal. Alternatively, the main control module is used to send audio signals to each control unit via the second communication line, and the control unit is used to send the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host. The main control module is also used to send playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line, and the control unit is used to control whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, according to the playback control signal.

[0007] Optionally, the first communication line is an automotive audio bus, and the second communication line is an Ethernet communication line.

[0008] Optionally, the main control module includes a human-machine interface, on which parameter setting touch buttons for each playback area are provided; the main control module is further configured to obtain the target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-machine interface to determine the target parameters for each playback area; the main control module is further configured to send configuration instructions to the control unit in the corresponding area control module according to the target parameters of each playback area, so that the control unit adjusts the audio signal sent by the first audio slave or the second audio master according to the configuration instructions, or adjusts the first audio device.

[0009] Optionally, the playback area includes at least two sub-playback areas, and each sub-playback area includes a sub-area control module; The second audio host is connected to the sub-region control module. The second audio host is used to send audio signals to the sub-region control module. The sub-region control module is also connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to control whether the sub-region control module plays audio signals according to the playback control signal.

[0010] Optionally, the sub-region control module includes an edge controller, a second audio slave, and a second audio device; The second audio slave unit is connected to both the second audio host unit and the edge controller, and the edge controller is connected to the control unit; the second audio slave unit is also connected to the second audio device. The control unit is configured to send a stop signal to the edge controller outside the target sub-playback area according to the playback control signal, and send a playback signal to the edge controller within the target sub-playback area. The edge controller is configured to, upon receiving the stop signal, control the second audio slave to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding second audio device, so that the second audio device outside the target sub-playback area stops playing; and upon receiving the playback signal, control the second audio slave to send audio signals to the corresponding second audio device, so that the second audio device within the target sub-playback area plays audio signals.

[0011] Optionally, the main control module includes a system-on-a-chip, a control chip, and a first audio host; The system-on-a-chip (SoC) is connected to the control chip and each of the control units respectively; the SoC is used to send audio signals to the control chip according to the playback information of the human-computer interaction interface; the SoC is also used to send the playback control signal to the corresponding control unit according to the playback information; The control chip is connected to the first audio host; the control chip is used to send audio signals to the first audio host; The first audio host is connected to the first audio slave in the area control module connected to the main control module, and the first audio host is used to send the audio signal to the corresponding first audio slave.

[0012] Optionally, the first audio device includes a third audio slave, a first power amplifier, and at least one audio player; The third audio slave unit is connected to the second audio master unit, and the first power amplifier is connected between the third audio slave unit and the audio player.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, a control method for an in-vehicle audio system is provided, wherein the control method for the in-vehicle audio system is executed by the in-vehicle audio system described in any embodiment of the present invention; The control method for the vehicle audio system includes: The main control module determines the audio signal and playback control signal based on the playback information from the human-computer interaction interface; The master control module transmits audio signals to each of the first audio slaves via the first communication line, and sends playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line. The control unit controls whether the corresponding first audio slave sends an audio signal to the corresponding second audio host, or controls whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, based on the playback control signal. Alternatively, the master control module sends audio signals to each control unit via the second communication line, the control unit sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host, the master control module sends playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line, and the control unit controls whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, based on the playback control signal.

[0014] Optionally, the main control module includes a human-computer interaction interface, on which parameter setting touch buttons for each playback area are provided; The method further includes: The main control module obtains the target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-computer interaction interface in order to determine the target parameters of each playback area. The main control module sends configuration instructions to the control unit in the corresponding area control module through the second communication line according to the target parameters of each playback area, so that the control unit can adjust the audio signal sent by the first audio slave or the second audio master according to the configuration instructions, or adjust the first audio device.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, a vehicle is provided that includes the in-vehicle audio system described in any embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] The technical solution of this invention involves setting at least two playback areas, each including a region control module and a first audio device. A master control module transmits audio signals to each first audio slave device via a first communication line and sends playback control signals to each control unit via a second communication line. For a target playback area, the playback control signal is a playback signal. The control unit controls the corresponding first audio slave device to send an audio signal to the corresponding second audio master device based on the playback signal, and then controls the second audio master device to send an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device. For playback areas outside the target playback area, the playback control signal is a stop playback signal. The control unit controls the corresponding first audio slave device to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding second audio master device, or controls the corresponding second audio master device to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding first audio device, thus preventing playback in areas outside the target playback area. Alternatively, the master control module sends audio signals to each control unit via the second communication line. The control unit sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio master device. For the target playback area, the control unit controls the second audio master device to send an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device based on the playback control signal. For playback areas outside the target playback area, the control unit controls the second audio master device to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding first audio device based on the playback control signal. This enables zoned playback of audio signals, improving the user experience. Furthermore, the main control module and the first audio slave form the first-level link. The second audio host and the first audio device form the second-level link. This allows a single main control module to transmit audio signals to more nodes, connect more audio devices, and thus support more speakers to meet better timbre and sound effect requirements, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0017] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an in-vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a region control module provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a main control module and a regional control module connected to the main control module, provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a control method for an in-vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0020] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0022] This invention provides an in-vehicle audio system. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an in-vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, with reference to... Figure 1 The vehicle audio system includes: a main control module 110 and at least two playback areas A1, each playback area A1 including an area control module 120 and at least one first audio device 130; The area control module 120 includes a control unit 121, a first audio slave 122, and a second audio master 123. The first audio slave 122 is connected to the second audio master 123. The control unit 121 is connected to both the first audio slave 122 and the second audio master 123. The second audio master 123 is connected to the first audio device 130. The main control module 110 is connected in series with each of the first audio slave units 122 via the first communication line B1, and is also connected to each of the control units 121 via the second communication line E1. The main control module 110 transmits audio signals to each of the first audio slave units 122 via the first communication line B1, and sends playback control signals to each of the control units 121 via the second communication line E1. The control units 121 control whether, based on the playback control signals, the corresponding first audio slave unit 122 (i.e., the first audio slave unit 122 connected to the control unit 121) sends audio signals to the corresponding second audio host unit 123 (i.e., the second audio host unit 123 connected to the first audio slave unit 122), or controls the corresponding second audio host unit 123. Whether the host 123 (i.e., the second audio host 123 in the same playback area as the control unit 121) sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device 130; or, the main control module 110 is used to send an audio signal to each control unit 121 through the second communication line E1, and the control unit 121 is used to send the audio signal to the corresponding second audio host 123 (i.e., the second audio host 123 in the same playback area as the control unit 121). The main control module 110 is also used to send a playback control signal to each control unit 121 through the second communication line E1, and the control unit 121 is used to control whether the corresponding second audio host 123 sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device 130 according to the playback control signal.

[0023] For example, the first communication line B1 is a communication bus. For example, at least two playback areas A1 include a first playback area A1a, a second playback area A1b, a third playback area A1c, and a fourth playback area A1d. The first playback area A1a can be the playback area corresponding to the driver's side of the vehicle where the in-vehicle audio system is located; the second playback area A1b can be the playback area corresponding to the passenger's side of the vehicle where the in-vehicle audio system is located; the third playback area A1c is the playback area between the passenger's side and the rear of the vehicle where the in-vehicle audio system is located; and the fourth playback area A1d is the playback area between the driver's side and the rear of the vehicle where the in-vehicle audio system is located. The main control module 110 is connected to the first audio slave 122 in the first playback area A1a through the first communication line B1. The first audio slave 122 in the first playback area A1a, the first audio slave 122 in the second playback area A1b, the first audio slave 122 in the third playback area A1c, and the first audio slave 122 in the fourth playback area A1d are connected in series through the first communication line B1, so that the main control module 110 is connected in series with each of the first audio slaves 122 through the first communication line B1. In this way, the main control module 110 can send audio signals to the first audio slave 122 in the first playback area A1a through the first communication line B1. The first audio slave 122 in the first playback area A1a sends audio signals to the first audio slave 122 in the second playback area A1b. The first audio slave 122 in the second playback area A1b sends audio signals to the first audio slave 122 in the third playback area A1c. The first audio slave 122 in the third playback area A1c sends audio signals to the first audio slave 122 in the fourth playback area A1d, thereby enabling the main control module 110 to transmit audio signals to each of the first audio slaves 122 through the first communication line B1.

[0024] The second communication line E1 can transmit control signals and / or audio signals to each control unit 121.

[0025] The control unit 121 may include a microcontroller unit (MCU) or a digital signal processor (DSP), etc., and is not limited thereto.

[0026] The first communication line B1 is, for example, an Automotive Audio Bus (A2B). The first audio slave 122 is an A2B transceiver, and the master control module 110 and the first audio slave 122 form a first-level A2B link. The second audio master 123 is also an A2B transceiver, and the second audio master 123 and the first audio device 130 form a second-level A2B link. This allows one master control module 110 to transmit audio signals to more nodes (audio masters and / or audio slaves), connect more audio devices, and thus support more speakers to meet better timbre and sound effect requirements, thereby improving the user experience. Furthermore, each second audio master 123 can also connect to a second audio slave, and the second audio slave can further connect to a third audio master, forming a third-level A2B link, where the second audio slave connects to the audio device. This enables the connection of even more audio devices.

[0027] Specifically, users can select the audio signal to be played and the playback area to be played according to their needs. The main control module 110 may include a human-computer interaction interface, through which users can select the playback area and determine the content (audio signal) to be played.

[0028] In one implementation, the master control module 110 transmits audio signals to each of the first audio slaves 122 via the first communication line B1. The first audio slaves 122 then send the audio signals to the second audio master 123. The master control module 110 determines the target playback area where audio needs to be played. For the playback area where audio needs to be played (i.e., the target playback area), the master control module 110 sends a playback control signal via the second communication line E1, which is a playback signal. That is, it sends a playback signal to the control unit 121 of the target playback area. The control unit 121 of the target playback area then controls the corresponding first audio slave 122 to send audio signals to the second audio master 123, and controls the second audio master 123 to send audio signals to the first audio device 130 connected to it, so that the target playback area plays audio. For playback areas where audio playback is not required (i.e., playback areas outside the target playback area), the main control module 110 sends a stop playback signal via the second communication line E1. This stop playback signal is sent to the control unit 121 in the playback area outside the target playback area. The control unit 121 in the playback area outside the target playback area then controls the corresponding second audio host 123 to stop sending audio signals to the first audio device 130 connected to it, thus preventing audio playback in the playback area outside the target playback area. Alternatively, the main control module 110 transmits audio signals to each first audio slave 122 via the first communication line B1. The control unit 121 can control whether the first audio slave 122 sends audio signals to the second audio host 123. The control unit 121 in the playback area outside the target playback area can control the corresponding first audio slave 122 to stop sending audio signals to the second audio host 123, thus preventing audio playback in the playback area outside the target playback area.

[0029] In another implementation, the main control module 110 sends audio signals and playback control signals to each control unit 121 via the second communication line E1. The control unit 121 then sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host 123. For the target playback area, the playback control signal sent by the main control module 110 is a play signal. The control unit 121 of the target playback area then controls the second audio host 123 to send audio signals to the corresponding first audio device 130, causing the first audio device 130 of the target playback area to play audio. For playback areas outside the target playback area, the playback control signal sent by the main control module 110 is a stop playback signal. The control unit 121 of the target playback area then controls the second audio host 123 not to send audio signals to the corresponding first audio device 130, preventing audio playback in playback areas outside the target playback area.

[0030] This enables the playback of audio signals in different zones, which can improve the user experience.

[0031] For example, at least two playback areas A1 include a first playback area A1a, a second playback area A1b, a third playback area A1c, and a fourth playback area A1d. During driving, a full-area playback mode is initially used, meaning audio is played in each playback area A1. If the driver notices that a rear passenger has fallen asleep, the driver can select to turn off the sound playback in the rear areas (third playback area A1c and fourth playback area A1d) via the human-machine interface. The main control module 110 transmits audio signals to each first audio slave unit 122 via the first communication line B1, and the first audio slave unit 122 sends the audio signals to the second audio host unit 123. Based on the driver's input command, the main control module 110 sends a playback signal (playback control signal) via the second communication line E1 to the control unit 121 in the first playback area A1a and the second playback area A1b, and sends a stop playback signal to the control unit 121 in the third playback area A1c and the fourth playback area A1d. The control units 121 in the third playback area A1c and the fourth playback area A1d then control their corresponding second audio hosts 123 to stop sending audio signals to the first audio device 130 connected to them, thus preventing audio playback in the third playback area A1c and the fourth playback area A1d. The control units 121 in the first playback area A1a and the second playback area A1b then control their corresponding first audio slaves 122 to send audio signals to the second audio host 123, which in turn sends audio signals to the first audio device 130 connected to it, causing audio playback in the first playback area A1a and the second playback area A1b.

[0032] Alternatively, the main control module 110 sends audio signals via the second communication line E1 to the control units 121 in the first playback area A1a, the second playback area A1b, the third playback area A1c, and the fourth playback area A1d. The control units 121 then send the audio signals to the corresponding second audio hosts 123. For the target playback areas (first playback area A1a and second playback area A1b), the control unit 121 controls the second audio hosts 123 to send audio signals to the corresponding first audio devices 130 according to the playback control signal (playback signal), causing the first audio devices 130 in the first playback areas A1a and A1b to play audio. For areas outside the target playback areas (third playback area A1c and fourth playback area A1d), the control unit 121 controls the second audio hosts 123 to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding first audio devices 130 according to the playback control signal (stop playback signal), and the third playback areas A1c and A1d no longer play audio.

[0033] The technical solution of this embodiment involves setting at least two playback areas, each including an area control module and a first audio device. The main control module transmits audio signals to each first audio slave device via a first communication line and sends playback control signals to each control unit via a second communication line. For the target playback area, the playback control signal is a playback signal. The control unit controls the corresponding first audio slave device to send an audio signal to the corresponding second audio master device based on the playback signal, and controls the second audio master device to send an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device. For playback areas outside the target playback area, the playback control signal is a stop playback signal. The control unit controls the corresponding first audio slave device to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding second audio master device based on the stop playback signal, or controls the corresponding second audio master device to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding first audio device, so that playback areas outside the target playback area no longer play. Alternatively, the main control module sends audio signals to each control unit via the second communication line. The control unit sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio master device. For the target playback area, the control unit controls the second audio master device to send an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device based on the playback control signal. For playback areas outside the target playback area, the control unit controls the second audio master device to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding first audio device based on the playback control signal. This enables zoned playback of audio signals, improving the user experience. Furthermore, the main control module and the first audio slave form the first-level link. The second audio host and the first audio device form the second-level link. This allows a single main control module to transmit audio signals to more nodes, connect more audio devices, and thus support more speakers to meet better timbre and sound effect requirements, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0034] Based on the above technical solution, optionally, the first communication line B1 is an automotive audio bus, and the second communication line E1 is an Ethernet communication line.

[0035] The automotive audio bus is a high-bandwidth, bidirectional digital audio bus that can efficiently transmit audio signals. The second communication line, E1, is an Ethernet communication line that can use SOME / IP (Scalable service-oriented middleware over IP) or DDS (Data Distribution Service) protocols to transmit playback control signals to the corresponding control unit 121, and use AVB (Audio Video Bridging) or TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking) protocols to transmit audio signals.

[0036] Based on the above technical solutions, for example,Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a region control module provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, refer to... Figure 2 The control unit 121 is connected to the first audio slave 122 via the first I2S line I2S1, the first I2C line I2C1, the first GPIO line GPIO1, and the first SPI line SPI1. The control unit 121 is connected to the second audio master 123 via the second I2S line I2S2, the second I2C line I2C2, the second GPIO line GPIO2, and the second SPI line SPI2. The first audio slave 122 is connected to the second audio master 123 via the third I2S line I2S3, the third I2C line I2C3, and the third SPI line SPI3.

[0037] Among them, the I2S line (including the first I2S line I2S1, the second I2S line I2S2 and the third I2S line I2S3) is an integrated circuit built-in audio (Inter-IC Sound) bus, which can realize I2S communication and transmit audio information, so that the control unit 121 can send audio signals to the first audio slave 122 and the second audio master 123, and the first audio slave 122 can transmit audio signals to the second audio master 123. The I2C line (including the first I2C line I2C1, the second I2C line I2C2, and the third I2C line I2C3) is a bidirectional two-wire synchronous serial bus that enables I2C communication. Control unit 121 can configure the attributes of the first audio slave 122 via the first I2C line I2C1, such as configuring the amplitude (volume) of the audio signal emitted by the first audio slave 122. Control unit 121 can configure the attributes of the second audio master 123 via the second I2C line I2C2, such as configuring (adjusting) the amplitude (volume) of the audio signal emitted by the second audio master 123. The first audio slave 122 can configure the attributes of the second audio master 123 via the third I2C line I2C3, such as configuring the amplitude (volume) of the audio signal emitted by the second audio master 123. Either control unit 121 or the first audio slave 122 can be selected to configure the attributes of the second audio master 123. GPIO lines (including the first GPIO line GPIO1 and the second GPIO line GPIO2) are general purpose input / output (GPIO) lines. Control unit 121 can send a control signal to the first audio slave 122 via the first GPIO line GPIO1 to control whether the first audio slave 122 sends an audio signal to the second audio master 123. Control unit 121 can send a control signal to the second audio master 123 via the second GPIO line GPIO2 to control whether the second audio master 123 sends an audio signal to the first audio device 130. When control unit 121 receives a stop playback signal from the master control module 110, it can control either the first audio slave 122 or the second audio master 123 to stop sending audio signals. The SPI lines (including the first SPI line SPI1, the second SPI line SPI2, and the third SPI line SPI3) are Serial Peripheral Interface lines, which can transmit upgrade information or configuration information. The control unit 121 can transmit upgrade information or configuration information to the first audio slave 122 through the first SPI line SPI1 to upgrade the first audio slave 122 or configure its attributes. The control unit 121 can transmit upgrade information or configuration information to the second audio master 123 through the second SPI line SPI2 to upgrade the second audio master 123 or configure its attributes.The first audio slave device 122 can transmit upgrade or configuration information to the second audio master device 123 via the third SPI line SPI3 to upgrade or configure the attributes of the second audio master device 123. Either the control unit 121 or the first audio slave device 122 can be selected to upgrade or configure the second audio master device 123.

[0038] The third I2S3 line can also be replaced with a TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) communication line, which is not limited here.

[0039] Based on the above technical solutions, optionally, the main control module 110 includes a human-machine interface, on which parameter setting touch buttons for each playback area are provided; the main control module 110 is also used to obtain the target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-machine interface to determine the target parameters for each playback area; the main control module 110 is also used to send configuration instructions to the control unit 121 in the corresponding area control module 120 according to the target parameters of each playback area, so that the control unit 121 adjusts the audio signal sent by the first audio slave 122 or the second audio master 123, or adjusts the first audio device 130 according to the configuration instructions.

[0040] The main control module 110 may include a system-on-a-chip (SoC) and a touchscreen, with a human-machine interface (HMI) on the touchscreen. The SoC is connected to the touchscreen and can obtain the target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the HMI to determine the target parameters for each playback area.

[0041] Specifically, each playback area corresponds to a parameter setting touch button. Users can set the audio playback parameters for the corresponding playback area through the parameter setting touch button on the human-machine interface. The audio playback parameters may include volume. The main control module 110 (e.g., the system-on-a-chip in the main control module 110) obtains the target parameters (e.g., the target volume) corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-machine interface, so that the main control module 110 (e.g., the system-on-a-chip in the main control module 110) can determine the target parameters for each target playback area.

[0042] For each playback area, the main control module 110 (e.g., the system-on-a-chip in the main control module 110) determines whether to increase or decrease the amplitude of the audio signal (volume) based on the target parameters and current parameters of the playback area. This generates a configuration command to increase or decrease the audio signal amplitude (volume) and sends it to the control unit 121 in the area control module 120 of that playback area. The control unit 121 then adjusts the audio signal (e.g., the amplitude) sent by the first audio slave 122 or the second audio master 123 according to the configuration command. Alternatively, the control unit 121 can be connected to the first power amplifier in the first audio device 130. The control unit 121 can adjust the amplification factor of the first power amplifier in the first audio device 130 according to the configuration command, thereby adjusting the volume of the sound emitted by the first audio device 130.

[0043] This allows for independent volume adjustment in different playback areas, thereby improving the user experience.

[0044] Based on the above technical solutions, Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of another vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, refer to... Figure 3 Playback area A1 includes at least two sub-playback areas F1, and sub-playback area F1 includes sub-area control module 140; The second audio host 123 is connected to the sub-area control module 140. The second audio host 123 is used to send audio signals to the sub-area control module 140. The sub-area control module 140 is also connected to the control unit 121. The control unit 121 is also used to send control signals to the sub-area control module 140 to control whether to play audio signals according to the playback control signals.

[0045] Wherein, sub-playback area F1 is a partial sub-area within playback area A1. For example, at least two playback areas A1 include a first playback area A1a and a second playback area A1b. The first playback area A1a can be the playback area corresponding to the driver's side of the vehicle where the in-vehicle audio system is located, and the second playback area A1b can be the playback area corresponding to the passenger's side of the vehicle where the in-vehicle audio system is located. The first playback area A1a can include a first sub-playback area F1a and a second sub-playback area F1b, and the second playback area A1b can include a third sub-playback area F1c and a fourth sub-playback area F1d. The first sub-playback area F1a can be the playback area on the driver's side door, and the second sub-playback area F1b can be the playback area on the driver's side steering wheel. The first audio device 130 of the first playback area A1a is the audio device in front of the driver's seat (e.g., on the frame between the driver's seat and the front of the vehicle, i.e., on the dashboard frame).

[0046] For example, when audio is playing in the first playback area A1a, the first audio device, the first sub-playback area F1a, and the second sub-playback area F1b of the first playback area A1a all play audio. When the driver inputs to turn off the sound on the driver's steering wheel through the human-machine interface, the main control module 110 sends a playback control signal to the control unit 121 of the first playback area A1a, which tells the second sub-playback area F1b of the first playback area A1a to stop playing, the first sub-playback area F1a of the first playback area A1a to continue playing, and the first audio device 130 of the first playback area A1a to continue playing. The control unit 121 does not control the first audio slave 122 and the second audio master 123 to stop sending audio. The first audio device 130 continues to play. The control unit 121 sends a stop signal to the sub-area control module 140 of the second sub-playback area F1b of the first playback area A1a. The sub-area control module 140 of the second sub-playback area F1b stops playing, and the sub-area control module 140 of the first sub-playback area F1a of the first playback area A1a continues to play. In this way, sub-region playback control is achieved, that is, local audio playback control is achieved. If the driver turns off the audio playback in the driver's area (first playback area A1a), the main control module 110 outputs a stop playback signal to the control unit 121 in the first playback area A1a. The control unit 121 controls the first audio slave 122 or the second audio master 123 to stop sending audio signals. As a result, the first audio device 130 in the first playback area A1a, the first sub-playback area F1a, and the second sub-playback area F1b will not play, thus achieving zoned playback control.

[0047] Each playback area's corresponding playback control signal can be a multi-bit data set. One bit indicates whether the first audio device is playing (e.g., 1 for play, 0 for stop). Another bit indicates whether the first sub-playback area is playing, and a third bit indicates whether the second sub-playback area is playing. This allows the control unit 121 to determine whether to control the first audio device to play, whether to control the first sub-playback area to play, and whether to control the second sub-playback area to play, based on the playback control signals.

[0048] Based on the above technical solutions, Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of another vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, refer to... Figure 4 The sub-area control module 140 includes an edge controller 141, a second audio slave 142, and a second audio device 143; The second audio slave unit 142 is connected to the second audio host unit 123 and the edge controller 141 respectively. The edge controller 141 is connected to the control unit 121. The second audio slave unit 142 is connected to the second audio device 143. The control unit 121 is used to send a stop signal to the edge controller 141 outside the target sub-playback area according to the playback control signal, and send a playback signal to the edge controller 141 within the target sub-playback area. When the edge controller 141 receives the stop signal, it controls the second audio slave 142 to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding second audio device 143, so that the second audio device 143 outside the target sub-playback area stops playing. When the edge controller 141 receives the playback signal, it controls the second audio slave 142 to send audio signals to the corresponding second audio device 143, so that the second audio device 143 within the target sub-playback area plays audio signals.

[0049] The edge controller 141 can be a controller for controlling the doors or seats, such as a controller for automatically locking the doors or a controller for locking the seat belts. The edge controller 141 includes an Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The edge controller 141 is connected to the control unit 121 located in the same playback area. The second audio device 143 includes at least one microphone and at least one speaker. The second audio device 143 may also include a second power amplifier connected between the second audio slave 142 and the speaker, which amplifies the audio signal. The second audio slave 142 includes an A2B transceiver.

[0050] Specifically, when it is necessary to shut down the audio in a sub-playback area of ​​a target playback region, the main control module 110 transmits audio signals to each of the first audio slaves 122 via the first communication line B1. For the target playback region, the first audio slave 122 sends audio signals to the second audio host 123, and the second audio host 123 sends audio signals to the first audio device 130. The main control module 110 sends playback control signals to each of the control units 121 via the second communication line E1. The control unit 121 sends a stop signal to the edge controller 141 outside the target sub-playback area according to the playback control signal. When the edge controller 141 receives the stop signal, it controls the second audio slave 142 to stop sending audio signals to the second audio device 143, so that the second audio device 143 stops playing, thus stopping the playback of the sub-playback areas outside the target sub-playback area in the target playback region. The control unit 121 sends a playback signal to the edge controller 141 of the target sub-playback area according to the playback control signal. When the edge controller 141 receives the playback signal, it controls the second audio slave 142 to send an audio signal to the second audio device 143, so that the second audio device 143 plays the audio signal, and the target sub-playback area plays audio.

[0051] Based on the above technical solutions, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a main control module and a regional control module connected to the main control module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, refer to... Figure 5 The main control module 110 includes a system-on-a-chip 111, a control chip 112, and a first audio host 113; The system-on-chip 111 is connected to the control chip 112 and each control unit 121 respectively; the system-on-chip 111 is used to send audio signals to the control chip 112 according to the playback information of the human-machine interface; the system-on-chip 111 is also used to send playback control signals to the corresponding control unit 121 according to the playback information; The control chip 112 is connected to the first audio host 113; the control chip 112 is used to send audio signals to the first audio host 113. The first audio host 113 is connected to the first audio slave 122 in the area control module 120 connected to the main control module 110. The first audio host 113 is used to send audio signals to the corresponding (connected to the first audio host 113) first audio slave 122.

[0052] The main control module 110 can be an in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system.

[0053] The System-on-Chip (SOC) can obtain user input (i.e., playback information) from the human-machine interface (e.g., a touchscreen interface) in the main control module 110. Playback information can be input via touch, voice input, or other methods. The playback information may include the area to be played (i.e., the target playback area) and the audio signal to be played. The SOC 111 then sends the audio signal to be played to the control chip.

[0054] The control chip 112 may include a digital signal processor (DSP) chip. The first audio host 113 includes an A2B transceiver. The control chip 112 can send the audio signal to be played to the first audio host 113. The first audio host 113 sends the audio signal to be played to the first audio slave 122 connected to it via the first communication line B1, and then sends it to other first audio slaves 122 via the first communication line B1.

[0055] When the system-on-chip (SoC) 111 determines that the area to be played is all the playback areas in the vehicle based on the playback information, the SoC 111 will not send a stop playback signal to the control unit 121. When the SoC 111 determines that the area to be played is not all the playback areas in the vehicle based on the playback information, the SoC 111 determines the target playback area based on the playback information, and then sends a stop playback signal to the control unit 121 of the playback area outside the target playback area. This causes the control unit 121 of the playback area outside the target playback area to control the first audio slave 122 or the second audio master 123 to stop sending audio signals, so that the playback area outside the target playback area no longer plays audio.

[0056] Optionally, refer to Figure 5 The control chip 112 is connected to the first audio host 113 via the fourth I2S line (I2S4), the third GPIO line (GPIO3), the fourth I2C line (I2C4), and the fourth SPI line (SPI4). The control chip 112 transmits audio signals to the first audio host 113 via the fourth I2S line (I2S4). The control chip 112 controls whether the first audio host 113 sends audio signals via the third GPIO line (GPIO3), for example, stopping the first audio host 113 from sending audio signals when audio playback is not needed. The control chip 112 configures the attributes of the first audio host 113 via the fourth I2C line (I2C4) (e.g., configuring the amplitude of the audio signals sent by the first audio host 113). The control chip 112 upgrades or configures the attributes of the first audio host 113 via the fourth SPI line (SPI4).

[0057] Based on the above technical solutions, Figure 6This is a structural schematic diagram of another vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, refer to... Figure 6 The first audio device 130 includes a third audio slave 131, a first power amplifier 132, and at least one audio player 133; The third audio slave unit 131 is connected to the second audio host unit 123, and the first power amplifier 132 is connected between the third audio slave unit 131 and the audio player 133.

[0058] The third audio slave unit 131 includes an A2B transceiver. The first power amplifier 132 includes a power amplifier chip. The audio player 133 can be a speaker.

[0059] Specifically, the third audio slave unit 131 can receive audio signals sent by the second audio host 123, and then the third audio slave unit 131 sends the audio signals to the first power amplifier 132. The first power amplifier 132 then sends the amplified audio signals to the audio player 133, enabling the audio player 133 to play the audio. By configuring the third audio slave unit 131, it can also connect to a third audio host, which in turn connects to the third audio slave unit, and the third audio slave unit connects to other audio devices, thus forming a third-level link, facilitating the connection of more audio devices.

[0060] This invention also provides a control method for an in-vehicle audio system, which is executed by an in-vehicle audio system provided in any embodiment of this invention. Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a control method for an in-vehicle audio system provided in an embodiment of the present invention, referred to as... Figure 7 The control methods for in-vehicle audio systems include: S101, the main control module determines the audio signal and playback control signal based on the playback information from the human-computer interaction interface.

[0061] Specifically, the main control module 110 may include a human-machine interface, from which the user can select the area to be played and determine the content (audio signal) to be played. This allows the main control module 110 to determine the audio signal and the playback control signal for each playback area based on the playback information from the human-machine interface.

[0062] S102, the main control module transmits audio signals to each first audio slave unit through the first communication line, and sends playback control signals to each control unit through the second communication line. The control unit controls whether the corresponding first audio slave unit sends an audio signal to the corresponding second audio host, or controls whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, according to the playback control signal; or, the main control module sends audio signals to each control unit through the second communication line, the control unit sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host, the main control module sends playback control signals to each control unit through the second communication line, and the control unit controls whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, according to the playback control signal.

[0063] Specifically, in one embodiment, the master control module 110 transmits audio signals to each of the first audio slaves 122 via the first communication line B1, and the first audio slaves 122 send the audio signals to the second audio master 123. The master control module 110 determines the target playback area where audio needs to be played. For the playback area where audio needs to be played (i.e., the target playback area), the master control module 110 sends a playback control signal via the second communication line E1, which is a playback signal, i.e., a playback signal is sent to the control unit 121 of the target playback area. The control unit 121 of the target playback area then controls the corresponding first audio slave 122 to send audio signals to the second audio master 123, and controls the second audio master 123 to send audio signals to the first audio device 130 connected to it, so that the target playback area plays audio. For playback areas where audio playback is not required (i.e., playback areas outside the target playback area), the main control module 110 sends a stop playback signal via the second communication line E1. This stop playback signal is sent to the control unit 121 in the playback area outside the target playback area. The control unit 121 in the playback area outside the target playback area then controls the corresponding second audio host 123 to stop sending audio signals to the first audio device 130 connected to it, thus preventing audio playback in the playback area outside the target playback area. Alternatively, the main control module 110 transmits audio signals to each first audio slave 122 via the first communication line B1. The control unit 121 can control whether the first audio slave 122 sends audio signals to the second audio host 123. The control unit 121 in the playback area outside the target playback area can control the corresponding first audio slave 122 to stop sending audio signals to the second audio host 123, thus preventing audio playback in the playback area outside the target playback area.

[0064] In another implementation, the main control module 110 sends audio signals and playback control signals to each control unit 121 via the second communication line E1. The control unit 121 then sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host 123. For the target playback area, the playback control signal sent by the main control module 110 is a play signal. The control unit 121 of the target playback area then controls the second audio host 123 to send audio signals to the corresponding first audio device 130, causing the first audio device 130 of the target playback area to play audio. For playback areas outside the target playback area, the playback control signal sent by the main control module 110 is a stop playback signal. The control unit 121 of the target playback area then controls the second audio host 123 not to send audio signals to the corresponding first audio device 130, preventing audio playback in playback areas outside the target playback area.

[0065] This enables the playback of audio signals in different zones, which can improve the user experience.

[0066] For example, the human-computer interaction interface may have play and stop touch buttons for each playback area. When a user touches the play touch button for each playback area, the transmitted playback information is "play all areas," meaning each playback area is the target playback area. Therefore, the main control module 110 can determine that the playback control signal for each playback area is a playback signal. After the user touches the stop touch button for a specific playback area, the target playback area can be determined. The settings for play and stop touch buttons are merely examples; different touch buttons can be set according to requirements. Additionally, play and stop touch buttons can also be set for each sub-playback area on the human-computer interaction interface.

[0067] In addition, users can also input the desired playback area into the human-computer interaction interface via voice input, allowing the main control module 110 to determine the audio signal and target playback area based on the playback information from the human-computer interaction interface. Users can also input a sub-playback area into the human-computer interaction interface via voice input, allowing the main control module 110 to determine the target sub-playback area based on the playback information from the human-computer interaction interface.

[0068] Based on the above technical solutions, optionally, the human-machine interface is equipped with touch buttons for setting parameters for each playback area. Optionally, the control method for the in-vehicle audio system also includes: Step a1: The main control module obtains the target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-computer interaction interface to determine the target parameters of each playback area.

[0069] Specifically, each playback area corresponds to a parameter setting touch button. Users can set the audio playback parameters for the corresponding playback area through the parameter setting touch button on the human-computer interaction interface. The audio playback parameters may include volume. The main control module 110 (e.g., the system-on-chip 111 in the main control module 110) obtains the target parameters (e.g., the target volume) corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-computer interaction interface, so that the main control module 110 (e.g., the system-on-chip 111 in the main control module 110) can determine the target parameters for each target playback area.

[0070] Step a2: The main control module sends configuration instructions to the control unit in the corresponding area control module according to the target parameters of each playback area, so that the control unit can adjust the audio signal sent by the first audio slave or the second audio master, or adjust the first audio device according to the configuration instructions.

[0071] Specifically, for each playback area, the main control module 110 (e.g., the system-on-a-chip 111 in the main control module 110) determines whether to increase or decrease the amplitude of the audio signal (volume) based on the target parameters and current parameters of the playback area. This generates a configuration command to increase or decrease the audio signal amplitude (volume) and sends it to the control unit 121 in the area control module 120 of that playback area. The control unit 121 then adjusts the audio signal (e.g., the amplitude of the audio signal sent by the first audio slave 122 or the second audio master 123) according to the configuration command. Alternatively, the control unit 121 can be connected to the first power amplifier 132 in the first audio device 130. The control unit 121 can adjust the amplification factor of the first power amplifier 132 in the first audio device 130 according to the configuration command, thereby adjusting the volume of the sound emitted by the first audio device 130.

[0072] This allows for independent volume adjustment in different playback areas, thereby improving the user experience.

[0073] This invention also provides a vehicle that includes the in-vehicle audio system provided in any embodiment of this invention. Therefore, the vehicle in this embodiment has the same beneficial effects as the in-vehicle audio system provided in any embodiment of this invention, and will not be described again here.

[0074] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0075] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A vehicle-mounted audio system, characterized in that, include: The main control module and at least two playback areas, each playback area including a region control module and at least one first audio device; The area control module includes a control unit, a first audio slave unit, and a second audio master unit. The first audio slave unit is connected to the second audio master unit. The control unit is connected to both the first audio slave unit and the second audio master unit. The second audio master unit is connected to the first audio device. The main control module is connected in series with each of the first audio slave units via a first communication line, and is connected to each of the control units via a second communication line. The main control module is used to transmit audio signals to each of the first audio slave units via the first communication line, and to send playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line. The control unit is used to control whether the corresponding first audio slave unit sends an audio signal to the corresponding second audio host, or to control whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, according to the playback control signal. Alternatively, the main control module is used to send audio signals to each control unit via the second communication line, and the control unit is used to send the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host. The main control module is also used to send playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line, and the control unit is used to control whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, according to the playback control signal.

2. The vehicle audio system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first communication line is an automotive audio bus, and the second communication line is an Ethernet communication line.

3. The vehicle audio system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main control module includes a human-machine interface with parameter setting touch buttons for each playback area. The main control module is also used to obtain target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-machine interface to determine the target parameters for each playback area. Furthermore, the main control module is used to send configuration commands to the control unit in the corresponding area control module according to the target parameters of each playback area, so that the control unit adjusts the audio signal sent by the first audio slave or the second audio master, or adjusts the first audio device, according to the configuration commands.

4. The vehicle audio system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The playback area includes at least two sub-playback areas, and each sub-playback area includes a sub-area control module. The second audio host is connected to the sub-region control module. The second audio host is used to send audio signals to the sub-region control module. The sub-region control module is also connected to the control unit. The control unit is also used to control whether the sub-region control module plays audio signals according to the playback control signal.

5. The vehicle audio system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The sub-region control module includes an edge controller, a second audio slave, and a second audio device; The second audio slave unit is connected to both the second audio host unit and the edge controller, and the edge controller is connected to the control unit; the second audio slave unit is also connected to the second audio device. The control unit is configured to send a stop signal to the edge controller outside the target sub-playback area according to the playback control signal, and send a playback signal to the edge controller within the target sub-playback area. The edge controller is configured to, upon receiving the stop signal, control the second audio slave to stop sending audio signals to the corresponding second audio device, so that the second audio device outside the target sub-playback area stops playing; and upon receiving the playback signal, control the second audio slave to send audio signals to the corresponding second audio device, so that the second audio device within the target sub-playback area plays audio signals.

6. The vehicle audio system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main control module includes a system-on-a-chip, a control chip, and a first audio host; The system-on-a-chip (SoC) is connected to the control chip and each of the control units respectively; the SoC is used to send audio signals to the control chip according to the playback information of the human-computer interaction interface; the SoC is also used to send the playback control signal to the corresponding control unit according to the playback information; The control chip is connected to the first audio host; the control chip is used to send audio signals to the first audio host; The first audio host is connected to the first audio slave in the area control module connected to the main control module, and the first audio host is used to send the audio signal to the corresponding first audio slave.

7. The vehicle audio system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first audio device includes a third audio slave, a first power amplifier, and at least one audio player; The third audio slave unit is connected to the second audio master unit, and the first power amplifier is connected between the third audio slave unit and the audio player.

8. A control method for an in-vehicle audio system, characterized in that, The control method of the vehicle audio system is executed by the vehicle audio system according to any one of claims 1-7; The control method for the vehicle audio system includes: The main control module determines the audio signal and playback control signal based on the playback information from the human-computer interaction interface; The master control module transmits audio signals to each of the first audio slaves via the first communication line, and sends playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line. The control unit controls whether the corresponding first audio slave sends an audio signal to the corresponding second audio host, or controls whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, based on the playback control signal. Alternatively, the master control module sends audio signals to each control unit via the second communication line, the control unit sends the audio signals to the corresponding second audio host, the master control module sends playback control signals to each control unit via the second communication line, and the control unit controls whether the corresponding second audio host sends an audio signal to the corresponding first audio device, based on the playback control signal.

9. The control method for an in-vehicle audio system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The main control module includes a human-computer interaction interface, on which touch buttons for setting parameters for each playback area are provided. The method further includes: The main control module obtains the target parameters corresponding to each parameter setting touch button from the human-computer interaction interface in order to determine the target parameters of each playback area. The main control module sends configuration instructions to the control unit in the corresponding area control module according to the target parameters of each playback area, so that the control unit adjusts the audio signal sent by the first audio slave or the second audio master, or adjusts the first audio device according to the configuration instructions.

10. A vehicle, characterized in that, The vehicle audio system included in any one of claims 1-7.

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