Device for a vehicle seat, vehicle seat and vehicle with such a device, and method for playing back media content

Abstract

Device (100) for a vehicle seat (10) of a motor vehicle, comprising: a docking unit (110) configured for connection with a mobile device (30) to enable data transfer from the mobile device (30) to at least one media unit (20); wherein the at least one media unit (20) comprises a loudspeaker; and a control unit (120) that is configured to: to capture at least one context parameter that indicates a current environmental situation of the device (100); wherein the context parameter indicates whether a user is sitting upright or reclined in the vehicle seat (10); and to control at least one functional unit (40) based on the at least one context parameter in order to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit (40) to the current environmental situation in such a way that the user can use the at least one media unit (20) such that, if the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the vehicle seat (10), the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that an audio output of the loudspeaker is adapted to the position of the user.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a device for a seat, a seat with such a device, a vehicle with such a seat, and a method for playing back media content. The present disclosure relates in particular to the use of mobile devices in a position convenient for the user. State of the art

[0002] Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are ubiquitous companions today and are used for a wide variety of tasks and applications. While mobile devices can also serve as platforms for mobile working, their compact size prevents them from replacing traditional laptops. In particular, operating mobile devices can be cumbersome or even impossible, especially when performing complex tasks or using applications. This can be inconvenient for users, as they may have to switch to their laptops to complete certain tasks or use specific applications.

[0003] DE 10 2010 002 928 A1 describes a motor vehicle configuration system comprising a motor vehicle in whose interior at least one transponder suitable for wireless near-field communication is installed and which has a receiver unit for wirelessly receiving vehicle configuration data via a wireless communication link independent of wireless near-field communication, and comprising a portable device suitable for wireless near-field communication and capable of detecting the approach of the portable device to the transponder by means of near-field communication, which has at least one data storage device for storing data and which has a transmitter unit for wirelessly transmitting data based on the data stored in the data storage device via a wireless communication link independent of wireless near-field communication, and which is programmedBased on the detection of the portable device's approach to the transponder via wireless near-field communication, data is transmitted from the portable device to the vehicle via a wireless communication link between the transmitting unit and the receiving unit, independent of wireless near-field communication, in order to provide the vehicle with vehicle configuration data.

[0004] EP 1 804 233 A1 describes a display device designed to show different images at different viewing angles. CN 2 03 914 082 U describes an adjustable chair for use with a computer. US 2015 / 0 363 656 A1 describes a method for providing information regarding the orientation of a windowless vehicle. Disclosure of the invention

[0005] One objective of the present disclosure is to specify a device for a seat, a seat with such a device, a vehicle with such a seat, and a method for playing back media content, enabling flexible and comprehensive use of mobile devices. Furthermore, one objective of the present disclosure is to improve user comfort.

[0006] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to an independent aspect of the present disclosure, a device for a vehicle seat is specified. The device comprises a docking unit configured for connection with a mobile device to enable data transfer from the mobile device to at least one media unit, wherein the at least one media unit comprises a loudspeaker; and a control unit configured to: detect at least one context parameter indicating a current environmental situation of the device, wherein the context parameter indicates whether a user is sitting upright or reclined in the seat;and to control at least one functional unit based on the at least one context parameter in order to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit to the current environmental situation in such a way that the user can use the at least one media unit, such that if the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the seat, the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that an audio output of the loudspeaker is adapted to the position of the user.

[0008] According to the invention, at least one functional unit is adjusted based on at least one context parameter or situation-dependently, so that the user can optimally utilize the at least one media unit. For example, the position of a display (media unit) can be changed according to the context, such as the user's seating position, by means of an actuator (functional unit) so that the user has an optimal view of the display while media content from the mobile device is displayed on the screen. This enables the user to make optimal use of the at least one media unit. Preferably, at least one context parameter relates to an automated driving mode, and in particular an autonomous driving mode.

[0009] In this document, the term "context parameter" refers to a property of a current situation, such as an environment and / or a user. The context parameter can also be called a "situation parameter." For example, the context parameter might indicate whether the user is sitting upright or reclined in their seat. In another example, the context parameter might indicate whether a vehicle is driving autonomously or not. However, this disclosure is not limited to these examples, and the context parameter can be selected appropriately depending on the application to enable optimal configuration of the at least one functional unit and / or the at least one media unit.

[0010] The term mobile device includes in particular smartphones, but also other mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet PCs, notebooks, smartwatches and all current and future electronic devices which are equipped, for example, with a technology for loading and running apps.

[0011] In some embodiments, a mobile terminal device can be, in particular, a device capable of wireless communication within a mobile network via local area networks (LANs), such as wireless LAN (WiFi / WLAN), or via wide area networks (WANs), such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), General Package Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution (EDGE), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), High Speed ​​Downlink / Uplink Packet Access (HSDPA, HSUPA), Long-Term Evolution (LTE), or World Wide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX). Communication via other current or future communication technologies, such as 5G mobile communication systems, is possible according to the present disclosure.

[0012] Preferably, the docking unit is configured for a wireless and / or wired connection to the mobile device. The docking unit can be a wireless interface, for example, for communication with the mobile device via NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or similar technologies. Additionally or alternatively, the docking unit can be a wired interface, for example, for connecting to the mobile device via USB.

[0013] In some embodiments, the docking unit is designed to fix the mobile device in a specific position. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a mechanical holder. Additionally or alternatively, the docking unit can include a platform for the mobile device. This platform can, for example, be made of a non-slip material such as rubber to keep the mobile device in place. Additionally or alternatively, the docking unit can be movable, and in particular rotatable, to allow adjustment of the orientation and / or position of the docking unit or the mobile device.

[0014] Preferably, the at least one media unit comprises a display, wherein the at least one functional unit comprises a unit for a seat adjustment; and wherein the control unit is configured to adjust the seat by means of the seat adjustment such that the user can see the display optimally when the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the seat.

[0015] The display can be an LCD, plasma, or OLED display. For example, the display could be a television. The communication unit can be configured for voice telephony and / or messaging services (e.g., SMS) and / or data services.

[0016] Preferably, at least one functional unit is selected from the group comprising or consisting of the following: a unit for seat adjustment; a unit for setting the at least one media unit, in particular a spatial orientation of the at least one media unit; a media module for providing media content for at least one media unit, such as a motion sickness prevention module; a keyboard, in particular a unit for setting a spatial orientation of the keyboard; and a unit for setting the spatial orientation of a table.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one functional unit is identical to the at least one media unit. Alternatively, the at least one functional unit can be connected to the at least one media unit, e.g., mechanically and / or electrically. Alternatively, the at least one functional unit can be independent of the at least one media unit.

[0018] An example of an identity between at least one functional unit and at least one media unit could be a loudspeaker. If the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright (e.g., instead of reclining), the loudspeaker can be controlled in such a way that the audio output from the loudspeaker is adapted to this context, i.e., the user's position.

[0019] An example of a mechanical connection between the at least one functional unit and the at least one media unit could be a display whose position can be adjusted via an actuator. If the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright (e.g., instead of reclining), the actuator can be controlled in such a way that the position of the display is appropriately adjusted to this context, i.e., the user's position.

[0020] An example of an electrical connection between the at least one functional unit and the at least one media unit could be a display connected to a motion sickness prevention module. If the context parameter indicates that a vehicle is operating autonomously, the motion sickness prevention module can be controlled such that a display element executes a mode that minimizes or even prevents motion sickness in the user. This can be achieved, for example, by dynamically shifting pixels / images, displaying anchors, etc.

[0021] An example of the independence of at least one functional unit from at least one media unit could be a display and a seat adjustment. If the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the seat (e.g., instead of reclining), the seat can be adjusted so that the user can see the display optimally.

[0022] However, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples mentioned above, and other means may be used to ensure that a user can make optimal use of at least one media unit. For example, a keyboard and / or a tray table may be moved into a position optimal for the user.

[0023] Preferably, the device is configured to control at least one media unit as an extension of the mobile device. For example, the display of the mobile device can be extended to another display. In other words, the display is not mirrored, but rather extended.

[0024] According to another independent aspect of the present disclosure, a seat is specified. The seat comprises the device according to the embodiments described in this document.

[0025] The term "seat" can refer to a vehicle seat; other examples include a piece of furniture (e.g., an armchair or a sofa), an airplane seat, etc. In particular, a seat can be a vehicle seat installed in a vehicle, especially a motor vehicle.

[0026] According to another independent aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, is specified, comprising the device and / or the vehicle seat according to the embodiments described in this document.

[0027] The term "vehicle" includes cars, trucks, buses, motorhomes, motorcycles, etc., used for the transport of people, goods, etc. In particular, the term includes motor vehicles for passenger transport.

[0028] In some embodiments, the vehicle includes a driver assistance system for automated driving. An automated vehicle steers, brakes, and / or accelerates independently based on a driving strategy. This driving strategy can be determined based on environmental data from sensors, road conditions, traffic, weather, etc. The specific driving strategy is implemented through the drive system, steering, and / or brakes.

[0029] According to another independent aspect of the present disclosure, a method for reproducing media content is specified.The method comprises connecting a docking unit on a vehicle seat of a motor vehicle to a mobile device in order to enable data transfer from the mobile device to at least one media unit; wherein the at least one media unit comprises a loudspeaker; acquiring at least one context parameter indicating a current environmental situation; wherein the context parameter indicates whether a user is sitting upright or reclined in the seat; and controlling at least one functional unit based on the at least one context parameter in order to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit to the current environmental situation such that the user can use the at least one media unit, such that if the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the seat, the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that an audio output of the loudspeaker is adapted to the position of the user.

[0030] The method can implement the aspects of the device described in this document. Brief description of the drawings

[0031] Examples of the manifestation of the revelation are shown in the figures and are described in more detail below. They show: Fig. 1 schematically a device for a seat according to embodiments of the present disclosure, and Fig. 2 a flowchart of a method for reproducing media content according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Implementations of the revelation

[0032] Unless otherwise noted, the same reference symbols are used for identical and equivalent elements in the following.

[0033] Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows a device 100 for a seat 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the device 100 can be integrated into the seat 10.

[0034] Seat 10 can be, for example, a vehicle seat, a piece of furniture (e.g., an armchair or a sofa), an aircraft seat, etc. In particular, seat 10 can be a vehicle seat installed in a vehicle, especially a motor vehicle.

[0035] The device 100 comprises a docking unit 110, which is configured for connection with a mobile device 30 to enable data transfer from the mobile device 30 to at least one media unit 20. The mobile device 30 can be, for example, a smartphone, personal digital assistant (PDA), tablet PC, notebook, smartwatch, or other electronic device.

[0036] The docking unit 110 can be configured for a wireless and / or wired connection with the mobile device 30. The docking unit 110 can be a wireless interface, for example, for communication with the mobile device 30 via NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth, WiFi, or similar technologies. Additionally or alternatively, the docking unit 110 can be a wired interface, for example, for connecting to the mobile device 30 via USB.

[0037] The connection between the docking unit 110 and the mobile device 30 can be established automatically, for example when the mobile device 30 is inserted into the docking unit 110 or placed on the docking unit 110.

[0038] In some embodiments, the docking unit 110 is configured to fix the mobile device 30 in a position. This can be achieved, for example, by means of a mechanical holder. Additionally or alternatively, the docking unit 110 can include a storage surface for the mobile device 30. The storage surface can, for example, be a substantially horizontal surface and / or can comprise a non-slip material such as rubber to hold the mobile device 30 in position.

[0039] The mobile device 30 performs a data transfer from the mobile device 30 to at least one media unit 20. The at least one media unit 20 can be, for example, a display, a speaker, and / or a communication unit. The at least one media unit 20 can be independent of the mobile device 30 or seat 10, as in the example of the Fig. 1 is shown. Alternatively, at least one media unit can be integrated into seat 10.

[0040] In some embodiments, two or more media units may be provided. All of the two or more media units may be independent of the mobile device 30 or seat 10. Alternatively, all of the two or more media units may be integrated into the seat 10. In a further alternative embodiment, at least one media unit of the two or more media units may be independent of the mobile device 30 or seat 10, and at least one media unit of the two or more media units may be integrated into the seat 10.

[0041] At least one media unit 20 can serve as, or be configured as, an extension of the media output of the mobile device 30. For example, the display of the mobile device 30 can be extended to another display. In other words, the display of the mobile device 30 is not mirrored, but rather extended.

[0042] The device 100 further comprises a control unit 120. The control unit 120 is configured to acquire at least one context parameter that indicates the current environmental situation of the device. The context parameter specifies a property of a current situation, which, for example, relates to an environment and / or a user. The context parameter indicates whether the user is sitting upright or reclined in the seat. In another example, the context parameter can indicate whether a vehicle is driving autonomously or not. The context parameter can be acquired by suitable means, such as a camera that detects the user's position, a position sensor of a seat adjustment device that detects the position of the seat's backrest 10, etc.

[0043] The control unit 120 is further configured to control at least one functional unit 40 based on at least one context parameter, in order to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit 40 to the current environmental situation such that a user can optimally utilize the at least one media unit 20. In some embodiments, the at least one functional unit 40 can be integrated into the seat 10. In other embodiments, the at least one functional unit 40 can be provided independently of the seat 10. In the latter case, the at least one functional unit can be referred to as an external functional unit.

[0044] The at least one functional unit 40 can be, for example, a unit for a seat adjustment, a unit for adjusting the at least one media unit 20, in particular a spatial orientation of the at least one media unit 20, a media module for providing media content for the at least one media unit 20, such as a motion sickness prevention module, a keyboard, in particular a unit for adjusting a spatial orientation of the keyboard, or a unit for adjusting a spatial orientation of a table.

[0045] In some embodiments, the at least one functional unit is identical to the at least one media unit. Alternatively, the at least one functional unit can be connected to the at least one media unit, e.g., mechanically and / or electrically. In a further alternative embodiment, the at least one functional unit can be independent of the at least one media unit.

[0046] An example of an identity between at least one functional unit and at least one media unit could be a loudspeaker. If the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright (e.g., instead of reclining), the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that the audio output from the loudspeaker is adapted to this context, i.e., the user's position.

[0047] An example of a mechanical connection between the at least one functional unit and the at least one media unit could be a display or table whose position can be adjusted via an actuator. If the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright (e.g., instead of reclining), the actuator can be controlled in such a way that the position of the display or table is adjusted to this context, i.e., the user's position.

[0048] An example of an electrical connection between the at least one functional unit and the at least one media unit could be a display (media unit) connected to a motion sickness prevention module (functional unit). If the context parameter indicates that a vehicle is in autonomous driving mode, the motion sickness prevention module can be controlled such that a display element executes a mode that can minimize or even prevent motion sickness in the user. This can be achieved, for example, by dynamically shifting pixels / images, displaying anchors, etc.

[0049] An example of the independence of at least one functional unit from at least one media unit is a display and a seat adjustment. If the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the seat (e.g., instead of reclining), the seat can be adjusted so that the user can see the display optimally.

[0050] The present disclosure is not limited to the examples mentioned above, and other means may be used to ensure that a user can make optimal use of at least one media unit 20. For example, a keyboard and / or a storage table may be moved into a position optimal for the user.

[0051] Fig. Figure 2 shows a flowchart of a method 200 for reproducing media content according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] Method 200 comprises in block 210 connecting a docking unit on a vehicle seat 10 of a motor vehicle with a mobile terminal to enable data transfer from the mobile terminal to at least one media unit; wherein the at least one media unit 20 comprises a loudspeaker; in block 220 capturing at least one context parameter indicating a current environmental situation, wherein the context parameter indicates whether a user is sitting upright or reclined in the vehicle seat 10;and in block 230, controlling at least one functional unit based on the at least one context parameter to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit to the current environmental situation in such a way that a user can use the at least one media unit, such that if the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the vehicle seat 10, the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that an audio output of the loudspeaker is adapted to the position of the user.

[0053] The mobile device can, for example, be placed on a rotating, non-slip tray and automatically paired. The tray can be positioned next to the seat and rotated and moved as needed to achieve a convenient operating position. The tray itself can be used to control the seat and table positions, as well as to pair and disconnect devices (smart devices). A larger display can be integrated into the tray, allowing users to view and / or control the content of the mobile device.

[0054] Depending on external events (e.g., a server brings coffee or the seat moves across a toll plaza), payment can be made directly via NFC. An additional app on the mobile device can interact directly with the seat or vehicle and automatically adjust it in certain situations (seat heating, reclining position, table position, etc.). The app can also use external data to display events on the mobile device (e.g., announcing the end of an automated journey, smart home events, orders, doorbell, etc.). Without pairing, the integrated display can also show local content, such as menus.

[0055] According to the invention, at least one functional unit is adjusted based on at least one context parameter or situation-dependently, so that the user can optimally utilize the at least one media unit. For example, the position of a display (media unit) can be changed according to the context, such as the user's seating position, by means of an actuator (functional unit) so that the user has an optimal view of the display while media content from the mobile device is displayed on the screen. This enables the user to make optimal use of the at least one media unit.

Claims

[1] Device (100) for a vehicle seat (10) of a motor vehicle, comprising: a docking unit (110) configured for connection with a mobile device (30) to enable data transfer from the mobile device (30) to at least one media unit (20); wherein the at least one media unit (20) comprises a loudspeaker; and a control unit (120) that is configured to: to capture at least one context parameter that indicates a current environmental situation of the device (100); wherein the context parameter indicates whether a user is sitting upright or reclined in the vehicle seat (10); and to control at least one functional unit (40) based on the at least one context parameter in order to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit (40) to the current environmental situation in such a way that the user can use the at least one media unit (20) such that, if the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the vehicle seat (10), the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that an audio output of the loudspeaker is adapted to the position of the user. [2] The device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the docking unit (110) is configured for a wireless and / or wired connection with the mobile terminal (30). [3] The device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one media unit (20) comprises a display, wherein the at least one functional unit (40) comprises a seat adjustment unit; and wherein the control unit (120) is configured to adjust the vehicle seat (10) by means of the seat adjustment such that the user can see the display optimally when the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the vehicle seat (10). [4] The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one functional unit (40) is selected from the group consisting of the following: a unit for seat adjustment; a unit for setting up the at least one media unit (20), in particular a spatial orientation of the at least one media unit (20); a media unit for providing media content to at least one media unit (20); a keyboard, in particular a unit for setting a spatial orientation of the keyboard; and a unit for setting the spatial orientation of a table. [5] The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one functional unit (40) comprises the at least one media unit (20), or wherein the at least one functional unit (40) is the at least one media unit (20). [6] The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one context parameter relates to an automated driving mode, and in particular also to an autonomous driving mode. [7] The device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the device (100) is configured to control the at least one media unit (20) as an extension of the mobile terminal (30). [8] Vehicle seat (10) comprising the device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [9] Motor vehicle comprising the device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and / or the vehicle seat (10) according to claim 8. [10] Methods (200) for the reproduction of media content, comprising: Connecting (210) a docking unit on a vehicle seat (10) of a motor vehicle to a mobile terminal (30) to enable data transfer from the mobile terminal to at least one media unit (20); wherein the at least one media unit (20) comprises a loudspeaker; Capture (220) at least one context parameter indicating a current environmental situation; wherein the context parameter indicates whether a user is sitting upright or reclined in the vehicle seat (10); and Controlling (230) at least one functional unit based on the at least one context parameter to adapt a setting of the at least one functional unit to the current environmental situation in such a way that the user can use the at least one media unit, such that if the context parameter indicates that the user is sitting upright in the vehicle seat (10), the loudspeaker is controlled in such a way that an audio output of the loudspeaker is adapted to the position of the user.

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