AUDIOVISUAL VEHICLE SYSTEM

Abstract

A vehicle includes a display panel and a transparent sound-generating film. The display panel is mounted on the vehicle's dashboard. The display panel is switchable between a private mode and a public mode. In private mode, the display panel shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of the first seat but not visible to an occupant of the second seat. In public mode, the display panel shows visual content that is visible to both the first and second seat occupants. The transparent sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to the occupant of the first seat but not audible to the occupant of the second seat. The sound-generating film is laminated to either the display panel or the vehicle's windshield.

Description

AREA OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] This revelation describes a vehicle system that can provide private visual content and sound to a vehicle occupant, i.e., output that is visible and audible to that occupant and not to other occupants. GENERAL STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Modern vehicles often include audiovisual systems, which may include a display screen and speakers. Display screens can be of various types suitable for showing content readable by vehicle occupants, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs), plasma displays, digital light processing technology (DLPT), etc. Speakers can be mounted in different locations within the passenger compartment to deliver sound to the vehicle's occupants. SUMMARY

[0003] The system includes a display panel and a transparent sound-generating film. The display panel is mounted on the vehicle's dashboard. It can be switched between a private and a public mode. In private mode, the display panel shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of the first seat (e.g., the front passenger seat) but not visible to an occupant of the second seat (e.g., the driver's seat). In public mode, the display panel shows visual content that is visible to both the first and second seat occupants. The sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to the occupant of the first seat but inaudible to the occupant of the second seat. The sound-generating film is laminated to either the display panel or the vehicle's windshield.The tone-generating film can emit sound focused in a single direction, and by laminating the film to the display panel or windshield, the sound can be directed towards the first seat. The film's transparency and shape allow it to be placed on the display panel or windshield. In addition to focusing the sound, this placement also saves space for other components.

[0004] A vehicle includes a display panel and a transparent sound-generating film. The display panel is mounted on the vehicle's dashboard. The display panel is switchable between a private mode and a public mode. In private mode, the display panel shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of the first seat but not visible to an occupant of the second seat. In public mode, the display panel shows visual content that is visible to both the first and second seat occupants. The transparent sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to the occupant of the first seat but not audible to the occupant of the second seat. The sound-generating film is laminated to either the display panel or the vehicle's windshield.

[0005] In one example, the sound-generating film can be laminated onto the windshield.

[0006] In one example, the first seat could be a passenger seat in the vehicle, and the second seat could be the driver's seat. In another example, the vehicle might lack a sound-generating foil positioned to emit focused sound audible from the second seat.

[0007] In one example, the vehicle may also include a loudspeaker positioned to emit unfocused sound audible to the occupants of the first and second seats. In another example, the vehicle may also include a computer programmed to select one of the sound-generating foils and loudspeakers for sound output and to output sound corresponding to the visual content of the display panel to the selected sound-generating foil and loudspeaker. In yet another example, the computer may be programmed to select the sound-generating foil for sound output in response to the vehicle being in motion. In yet another example, the computer may be programmed to select the loudspeaker for sound output in response to the vehicle being stationary.

[0008] In yet another example, the computer can be programmed to select the sound generation slider for sound output in response to the display being switched to private mode. In yet another example, the computer can be programmed to select the speaker for sound output in response to the display being switched to public mode.

[0009] In another, even broader example, the computer can be programmed to select the sound generation slide for sound output in response to an input from a vehicle occupant.

[0010] A computer includes a processor and memory. The memory contains instructions that the processor can execute to select one of the selected sound-generating film and speaker for sound output and to output sound corresponding to the visual content of a vehicle display to the selected sound-generating film and speaker. The sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to an occupant of the first seat of the vehicle but not audible to an occupant of the second seat. The sound-generating film is laminated onto one of the vehicle's display panels or windshields. The speaker is positioned to emit unfocused sound that is audible to both the first and second seat occupants.

[0011] In one example, the instructions may also include instructions to select the sound generation foil for sound output in response to the vehicle being in motion. In another example, the instructions may also include instructions to select the speaker for sound output in response to the vehicle being stationary.

[0012] In one example, the instructions may further include instructions to switch the display between a private mode and a public mode, wherein the display in private mode shows visual content visible to an occupant of the first seat of the vehicle and not visible to an occupant of the second seat, whereas the display in public mode shows visual content visible to occupants of both the first and second seats. In another example, the instructions may further include instructions to select the sound generation slider for sound output in response to the display switching to private mode. In yet another example, the instructions may further include instructions to select the speaker for sound output in response to the display switching to public mode.

[0013] In one example, the instructions may also include instructions to select the sound generation slide for sound output in response to input from a vehicle occupant.

[0014] One method involves selecting a transparent sound-generating film and a loudspeaker for sound output and emitting sound corresponding to a visual content of a vehicle display panel to the selected area. The sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound audible to a first-seat occupant of the vehicle but inaudible to a second-seat occupant. The sound-generating film is laminated onto the vehicle display panel or windshield. The loudspeaker is positioned to emit unfocused sound audible to both the first- and second-seat occupants. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a top view of an exemplary vehicle with the passenger compartment exposed for illustration. Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective rear view of the front of a passenger compartment of the vehicle. Fig. Figure 3 is a block diagram of an example audiovisual system of the vehicle. Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary process for operating the audiovisual system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] In one example, the sound-generating film can be laminated onto the windshield.

[0016] Referring to the figures, in which identical reference symbols denote identical parts in the multiple views, a vehicle 100 includes a display panel 105 and a transparent sound-generating film 110. The display panel 105 is mounted on a dashboard 115 of the vehicle 100. The display panel 105 is switchable between a private mode and a public mode. In private mode, the display panel 105 shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of the first seat 120a of the vehicle 100 and not visible to an occupant of the second seat 120b of the vehicle 100. In public mode, the display panel 105 shows visual content that is visible to occupants of both the first seat 120a and the second seat 120b. The sound-generating foil 110 is positioned so that it emits focused sound that is audible to the occupant of the first seat 120a and not audible to the occupant of the second seat 120b.The sound generation film 110 is laminated onto one of the display panel 105 or a windshield 125 of the vehicle 100.

[0017] With reference to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Vehicle 100 can be any passenger or commercial vehicle, such as a car, a truck, an SUV, a crossover, a van, a minivan, a taxi, a bus, etc.

[0018] Vehicle 100 includes a passenger compartment 130 for accommodating any occupants of Vehicle 100. The passenger compartment 130 contains one or more seats 120 arranged in a front row of the passenger compartment 130, and one or more seats 120 arranged in a second row behind the front row. The passenger compartment 130 may also contain seats 120 in a third row (not shown) in a rear section of the passenger compartment 130. The seats 120 are shown as bucket seats in the front row and as bench seats in the second row, but the seats 120 may be of a different type. The position and orientation of the seats 120 and components thereof may be adjustable by an occupant.

[0019] The seats 120 include the first seat 120a and the second seat 120b. The term "first seat" is used in this document to refer to the seat 120 that is positioned to receive private visual content and sound from the display panel 105 and the sound-generating foil 110, and the term "second seat" is used in this document to refer to the seats 120 that are not positioned to receive private visual content and sound from the display panel 105 and the sound-generating foil 110. For example, the first seat 120a may be a passenger seat 120, and the second seat 120b may be the driver's seat 120. The first seat 120a may be the front passenger seat 120, and the second seats 120b may be the driver's seat 120 and the rear seats 120.If multiple display panels 105 and sound-generating foils 110 are used for multiple seats 120, a given seat 120 may be the first seat 120a for one display panel 105 and one sound-generating foil 110, and may be the second seat 120b for another display panel 105 and another sound-generating foil 110. The driver's seat 120 may not be the first seat 120a for any of the display panels 105 and sound-generating foils 110 on board the vehicle 100.

[0020] The instrument panel 115 can be located at the front end of the passenger compartment 130 and facing the front seats 120. The instrument panel 115 can include vehicle controls, such as a steering wheel 135; gauges, scales and information displays; heating and ventilation equipment; a radio and other electronics; etc. The steering wheel 135 can be positioned in front of the driver's seat 120 (e.g., the second seat 120b).

[0021] Vehicle 100 includes the windshield 125. The windshield 125 extends upwards and rearwards from the hood of Vehicle 100. The windshield 125 provides forward visibility for the occupants of Vehicle 100. The windshield 125 can be made of any suitable durable transparent material, including glass, such as laminated tempered glass, or plastic, such as Plexiglas® or polycarbonate.

[0022] The vehicle 100 includes a user interface 140. The user interface 140 presents information to and receives information from the operator and / or other occupants of the vehicle 100. The user interface 140 may include dials, digital displays, screens, speakers 145, and so on, for providing information to the operator, such as familiar elements of a human-machine interface (HMI). The user interface 140 may include buttons, knobs, keypads, a microphone, and so on, for receiving information from the operator. Components of the user interface 140 may be mounted on the instrument panel 115 or at other locations in the passenger compartment 130.

[0023] The vehicle 100 (e.g., the user interface 140) includes the display panel 105. The display panel 105 is mounted on the instrument panel 115. The display panel 105 can be positioned so that it is visible to an operator or occupant in the front row of seats 120 (e.g., the first seat 120a and / or the second seat 120b) while the operator's or occupant's head is facing forward in the direction of travel of the vehicle 100. This means that the operator or occupant may be able to view the display panel 105 by moving their eyes without moving their head. For example, the display panel 105 may be positioned above and in front of the steering wheel 135 (e.g., to serve as an instrument panel). The display panel 105 may extend laterally from one end of the instrument panel 115 to the other end of the instrument panel 115. Display field 105 can be a panoramic display, i.e.It can have an aspect ratio larger than a typical widescreen aspect ratio (i.e., larger than 16:9). The display field 105 can thus be capable of displaying content to the occupants of the entire front row of seats 120 (e.g., the first seat 120a and the second seat 120b). The display field 105 can be of any suitable type for displaying content that is legible to the respective occupants, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs), plasma displays, digital light processing technology (DLPT), etc.

[0024] The display 105 is switchable between a private mode and a public mode. In private mode, the display 105 shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of the first seat 120a but not visible to an occupant of the second seat 120b. In public mode, the display 105 shows visual content that is visible to occupants of both the first seat 120a and the second seat 120b. The display 105 can have an adjustable viewing angle, such as between a narrow angle α and a wide angle β, as shown in Fig. Figure 1 illustrates this. In the context of displays and screens, the term "viewing angle" refers to a range of angles relative to a display or screen within which the displayed image does not experience any visible degradation in image quality. The display panel 105 can, in private mode, use the narrow angle α, which can encompass the first seat 120a but not the second seat 120b, and the display panel 105 can, in public mode, use the wide angle β, which can encompass both the first seat 120a and the second seat 120b. The display panel 105 can use any suitable mechanism for adjusting the viewing angle, such as backlight units, liquid crystal apertures, etc. The private mode and the public mode can be limited to a section of the display panel 105, such as a lateral area in front of the first seat 120a (e.g.,a right third or a right half of display field 105, as in the . Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 (as can be seen) are applied.

[0025] The vehicle 100 (e.g., the user interface 140) includes the sound-generating film 110. The sound-generating film 110 is transparent, in other words, it transmits light without noticeable distortion (i.e., it is clear). The sound-generating film 110 is a film, that is, a thin skin or membrane. The sound-generating film 110 can be laminated to the windshield 125, in other words, it can be glued to the windshield 125 as an additional layer. The transparency of the sound-generating film 110 allows the occupants to see the environment outside the vehicle 100 through the sound-generating film 110. Alternatively, the sound-generating film 110 can be laminated to the display panel 105 (as in Fig. 2 (shown as dashed lines). The transparency of the sound generation film 110 allows the occupants to see what is displayed on the display panel 105.

[0026] The sound-generating foil 110 is an arrangement of transducers that convert an electrical signal into sound. The sound-generating foil 110 can, for example, emit ultrasonic waves from several transducers at specific locations arranged in a parametric configuration within the sound-generating foil 110, thereby producing an interference pattern of audible sound directed in a specific direction, resulting in focused sound in that specific direction. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "focused sound" is defined as sound directed along a beam that is inaudible outside the beam. For example, the beam may have an angular width γ of at most 45° (e.g., approximately 15°). The beam may extend perpendicular (i.e., perpendicular) to the sound-generating foil 110. The beam may be fixed (i.e., not adjustable), meaning that the position of the sound-generating foil 110 defines the beam.Such a tone generation foil 110 is manufactured by Audfly.

[0027] The sound-generating film 110 is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to the occupant of the first seat 120a and inaudible to the occupant of the second seat 120b. For example, the sound-generating film 110 is laminated to the windscreen 125 or the display panel 105 and oriented such that the sound beam is directed at a typical location on the head of the occupant of the first seat 120a. The beam may extend through the first seat 120a, and the second seat 120b may be positioned outside the beam. The vehicle 100 may lack a sound-generating film 110 positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to the second seat 120b (e.g., the driver's seat 120).

[0028] The vehicle 100 (e.g., the user interface 140) can include a variety of loudspeakers 145. The loudspeakers 145 are electroacoustic transducers that convert an electronic signal into sound. The loudspeakers 145 can be of any suitable type to produce a sound audible to the occupants (e.g., dynamic). The loudspeakers 145 are positioned to emit unfocused sound that is audible to the occupants of the first seat 120a and the second seat 120b (e.g., to all of the seats 120). For example, the loudspeakers 145 can be distributed throughout the passenger compartment 130, as shown in Fig. 1 shown.

[0029] With reference to Fig. 3 The vehicle 100 includes an audiovisual system 300. The audiovisual system 300 includes a computer 305, a communication network 310, the user interface 140, the display panel 105, the sound generation film 110, the loudspeakers 145 and sensors 315.

[0030] The Computer 305 is a microprocessor-based computing device, for example, a generic computing device that includes a processor and memory, electronic control or the like, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a combination of the foregoing, etc. Typically, a hardware description language, such as VHDL (Very High Speed ​​Integrated Circuit Hardware Description Language), is used to describe digital and mixed-signal systems, such as FPGAs and ASICs. For example, an ASIC is manufactured based on VHDL programming provided prior to manufacturing, whereas logical components within an FPGA may be configured based on VHDL programming (e.g.,...).(stored on a memory that is electrically connected to the FPGA circuit). The Computer 305 can thus include a processor, memory, etc. The memory of the Computer 305 can include media for storing instructions executable by the processor, as well as for electronically storing data and / or databases, and / or the Computer 305 can include structures such as those above through which programming is provided. The Computer 305 can consist of several interconnected computers.

[0031] The computer 305 can transmit and receive data via the communication network 310. The communication network 310 can be a Controller Area Network bus (CAN bus), Ethernet, WLAN, Local Interconnect Network (LIN), On-Board Diagnostics Port (OBD-II), and / or any other wired or wireless communication network. The computer 305 can communicate with the user interface 140, the display panel 105, the sound generation foil 110, the speakers 145, the sensors 315, and other components via the communication network 310.

[0032] The sensors 315 can generate data indicating the motion state of the vehicle 100. For example, the sensors 315 can provide data about the operation of the vehicle 100, such as wheel speed, wheel orientation, and engine and transmission data (e.g., temperature, fuel consumption, etc.). In another example, the sensors 315 can detect the location and / or orientation of the vehicle 100. The sensors 315 can include sensors of a global positioning system (GPS); accelerometers, such as piezoelectric or microelectromechanical systems (MEMS); gyroscopic instruments, such as reversing, ring laser, or fiber gyroscopes; inertial measurement units (IMEs); and magnetometers. In another example, the sensors 315 can include a speedometer.The speedometer can be any sensor suitable for measuring the speed of vehicle 100, for example, as is known, a mechanical or eddy current speedometer or a vehicle speed sensor. A vehicle speed sensor can use a magnetic field detector to count interruptions of a magnetic field by a toothed metal disc arranged on a drive shaft of vehicle 100.

[0033] With renewed reference to the Fig. 1-2 The computer 305 can be programmed to output content data via the user interface 140. Content data can include visual content and an audio stream. For the purposes of this disclosure, visual content is defined as the visual data included in content data (e.g., according to a video or image display format by which an image and / or a single frame or frames in a stream of images are provided as an arrangement of pixels). The visual content could be a static or dynamic display of information, a video stream, etc. For example, the visual content of a navigation program can include a map, which may contain a node indicating a relative position of the vehicle 100; the visual content of a weather program can include various graphical weather information such as temperature, cloud cover, etc.This includes, for example, the visual content of a video call can include a video stream of a caller, the visual content of a film can include a video stream of the film, and so on.

[0034] The computer 305 can output audio streams of content data from the sound-generating slide 110 or the loudspeakers 145 (selected as described below) in conjunction with the output of the corresponding visual content for the content data on the display panel 105. For the purposes of this disclosure, an audio stream is defined as audio data included in content data. The audio stream of content data can be synchronized with the visual content of that content data (e.g., the audio accompanying a streaming video, the audio navigation instructions triggered when the current location reaches predefined points along a route displayed in the visual content, etc.). For example, conventional formats for delivering streaming video with associated audio typically include mechanisms for synchronizing audio and video.

[0035] The computer 305 can be programmed to switch the display 105 between private and public modes; in other words, to change the mode of the display 105 from private to public mode or vice versa. For example, the computer 305 can instruct the display 105 to change the viewing angle from wide angle β to narrow angle α or from narrow angle α to wide angle β. The computer 305 can switch the display 105 between private and public modes in response to input from an occupant via the user interface 140. The input can be a mode selection. The computer 305 can also switch the display 105 between private and public modes in response to content displayed on the display 105.For example, some types of content data may be associated with private mode or public mode and will automatically be displayed in the associated mode (e.g., entertainment programs in private mode or map applications in public mode).

[0036] The computer 305 is programmed to select one of the sound-generating slide 110 and the speakers 145 for sound output. The computer 305 uses the selection to output sound, that is, to output the audio stream that accompanies the visual content displayed on the display screen. For example, the computer 305 may select the sound-generating slide 110 in response to one of a variety of trigger conditions being met (i.e., fulfilled), and the computer 305 may select the speakers 145 in response to none of the trigger conditions being met (i.e., defaulting). The trigger conditions may include, for example, input from an occupant, that the vehicle 100 is in motion, or that the display panel 105 is in private mode, as described below, and possibly others.

[0037] Computer 305 can be programmed to select sound generation slide 110 for sound output in response to input from a vehicle occupant 100. Computer 305 can further be programmed to select speaker 145 for sound output in response to a second input from the occupant or in response to the absence of input from the occupant. The occupant can provide the inputs via the user interface 140. For example, the user interface 140 can display a menu structure that allows a selection of settings related to sound output. The settings can include a setting for a sound output mode to the occupant of the first seat 120a with selectable options for private sound (e.g., sound generation slide 110) or public sound (e.g., speaker 145).The inputs can be the inmate's selection of public or private tone within the settings. The public tone selection can be overridden by the fulfillment of any of the other trigger conditions for selecting tone generation slide 110. This override can remain in effect as long as the other trigger condition is met, and the selection can then revert to public tone if the inmate selects it in response to the other trigger condition no longer being met.

[0038] The computer 305 can be programmed to select the sound generation foil 110 for sound output in response to the vehicle 100 being in motion. The computer 305 can also be programmed to select the speakers 145 for sound output in response to the vehicle 100 being stationary. For example, the computer 305 can receive a speed of the vehicle 100, in other words, a speed at which the vehicle 100 is traveling forward or backward, from the sensors 315 (e.g., from the speedometer). The computer 305 can compare the speed to a threshold value. The threshold value can be chosen to indicate that the vehicle 100 is moving (e.g., 1 mile per hour).In response to the speed exceeding the threshold, computer 305 selects sound generation slide 110 for sound output, and in response to the speed falling below the threshold, computer 305 selects loudspeakers 145 for sound output. The selection of loudspeakers 145 can be overridden by fulfilling one of the other trigger conditions for selecting sound generation slide 110. This override can remain in effect as long as the other trigger condition is fulfilled, and the selection can then revert to loudspeakers 145 when the vehicle 100 is stationary, once the other trigger condition is no longer fulfilled.

[0039] Computer 305 can be programmed to select tone generation slide 110 for sound output in response to display panel 105 switching to private mode. Computer 305 can further be programmed to select speakers 145 for sound output in response to display panel 105 switching to public mode. Computer 305 can set a flag in memory when display panel 105 switches between private and public modes. Computer 305 can select tone generation slide 110 for sound output in response to the flag indicating private mode for display panel 105, and Computer 305 can select speakers 145 for sound output in response to the flag indicating public mode for display panel 105.The selection of speakers 145 can be overridden by fulfilling one of the other trigger conditions for selecting the sound generation slide 110. This override can remain in effect as long as the other trigger condition is fulfilled, and the selection can then revert to speakers 145 in response to the other trigger condition no longer being fulfilled, provided the display field 105 is in public mode.

[0040] The computer 305 is programmed to output sound corresponding to the visual content of the display field 105 to the selected sound generation slide 110 and speakers 145, as described above, when either the sound generation slide 110 or the speakers 145 are selected. If the selection of the sound generation slide 110 and speakers 145 changes mid-audio stream, the computer 305 outputs sound from the audio stream from the point of the change, thus keeping the audio stream synchronized with the visual content.

[0041] Fig.Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example process 400 for operating the audiovisual system 300. The memory of the computer 305 stores executable instructions for carrying out the steps of process 400 and / or may contain programming implemented in structures such as those mentioned above. As a general overview of process 400, the computer 305 receives inputs for settings and sets the mode for the display panel 105. In response to either input from an occupant, the display panel 105 being in private mode, or the vehicle 100 being in motion, the computer 305 selects the sound-generating slide 110 for sound output and outputs sound corresponding to the visual content of the display panel 105 to the sound-generating slide 110.Otherwise, the computer 305 selects the speakers 145 and outputs sound corresponding to the visual content of the display 105 to the speakers 145. The process 400 continues as long as the vehicle 100 remains switched on.

[0042] The process 400 begins at a block 405 in which the computer 305 receives arbitrary inputs for settings of the audiovisual system 300, such as setting the mode for the display field 105 or selecting the sound generation slide 110 or the loudspeakers 145 for sound output, as described above.

[0043] Next, at block 410, computer 305 sets display field 105 to private mode or public mode, as described above.

[0044] Next, at decision block 415, computer 305 determines whether an inmate's input for audio output specifies private or public audio, as described above. In response to private audio, process 400 proceeds to block 430. In response to public audio or the absence of input, process 400 proceeds to decision block 420.

[0045] In decision block 420, computer 305 determines whether display field 105 is set to private or public mode in block 410, as described above. In response to display field 105 being in private mode, process 400 proceeds to block 430. In response to display field 105 being in public mode, process 400 proceeds to decision block 425.

[0046] In decision block 425, computer 305 determines the motion state of vehicle 100, as described above. In response to the fact that vehicle 100 is in motion, process 400 transitions to block 430. In response to the fact that vehicle 100 is stationary, process 400 transitions to block 435.

[0047] In block 430, computer 305 selects the sound generation slide 110 for sound output and outputs sound corresponding to the visual content of display field 105 to the sound generation slide 110, as described above. After block 430, process 400 proceeds to a decision block 440.

[0048] In block 435, computer 305 selects speakers 145 for sound output and outputs sound corresponding to the visual content of display 105 to speakers 145, as described above. After block 435, process 400 proceeds to decision block 440.

[0049] In decision block 440, computer 305 determines whether vehicle 100 is still switched on; in other words, whether vehicle 100 is in a switched-on state, a switched-off state, or an auxiliary power state. For the purposes of this disclosure, the "switched-on state" is defined as the state of vehicle 100 in which electrical components of vehicle 100 are supplied with full electrical power and vehicle 100 is ready to drive (e.g.,(the engine is running); the “off state” is defined as the state of the vehicle 100 in which a small amount of electrical power is supplied to selected electrical components of the vehicle 100, typically used when the vehicle 100 is in storage; and the “auxiliary power state” is defined as the state of the vehicle 100 in which more electrical components are supplied with full electrical power than in the off state, and the vehicle 100 is not ready to drive. Typically, an operator puts the vehicle 100 into the on state when the operator will operate the vehicle 100, puts the vehicle 100 into the off state when the operator will leave the vehicle 100, and puts the vehicle 100 into the auxiliary power state when the operator will be in the vehicle but will not be operating the vehicle 100.In response to the fact that vehicle 100 is in the powered-on state, process 400 returns to block 405 to update the tone output selection. In response to the fact that vehicle 100 is in the powered-off state or the auxiliary power state, process 400 terminates.

[0050] In general, the described computer systems and / or devices can use any of a range of computer operating systems, including, but not limited to, versions and / or variants of Ford's Sync® application, AppLink / Smart Device Link Middleware, Microsoft Automotive®, Microsoft Windows®, Unix (e.g., the Solaris® operating system, distributed by Oracle Corporation in Redwood Shores, California), AIX UNIX, distributed by International Business Machines in Armonk, New York, Linux, Mac OSX and iOS, distributed by Apple Inc. in Cupertino, California, BlackBerry OS, distributed by Blackberry, Ltd. in Waterloo, Canada, and Android, developed by Google, Inc. and the Open Handset Alliance, or the QNX® CAR infotainment platform, offered by QNX Software Systems.Examples of computing devices include, without limitation, an onboard vehicle computer, a computer workstation, a server, a desktop, notebook, laptop or handheld computer, or any other computing system and / or device.

[0051] Computing devices generally contain computer-executable instructions, which can be executed by one or more computing devices, such as those listed above. Computer-executable instructions can be compiled or interpreted by computer programs created using a variety of programming languages ​​and / or techniques, including, but not limited to, Java™, C, C++, Matlab, Simulink, Stateflow, Visual Basic, JavaScript, Perl, HTML, and others, either alone or in combination. Some of these applications can be compiled and executed on a virtual machine, such as the Java Virtual Machine, the Dalvik Virtual Machine, or similar. Generally, a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) receives instructions (e.g., from memory, a computer-readable medium, etc.).) and executes these instructions, thereby carrying out one or more processes, including one or more of the processes described in this document. Such instructions and other data can be stored and transmitted using a variety of computer-readable media. A file in a computing device is generally a collection of data stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a storage medium, random-access memory, etc.

[0052] A computer-readable medium (also called a processor-readable medium) is any non-volatile (e.g., physical) medium involved in providing data (e.g., instructions) that can be read by a computer (e.g., by a computer's processor). Such a medium can take many forms, including both non-volatile and volatile media. Instructions can be transmitted through one or more transmission media, including optical fibers, wires, and wireless communication, as well as internal components that comprise a system bus connected to a computer's processor. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, RAM, PROM, EPROM, FLASH EEPROM, any other memory chip, memory cartridge, or any other medium from which a computer can read.

[0053] Databases, data repositories, or other data storage devices described herein may include various types of mechanisms for storing, accessing, and retrieving different types of data, including a hierarchical database, a set of files in a file system, an application database in a proprietary format, a relational database management system (RDBMS), a non-relational database (NoSQL), a graph database (GDB), and so on. Each such data storage device is generally contained within a computing device that uses a computer operating system, such as one of those listed above, and is accessed in one or more of a variety of ways over a network. A file system can be accessed by a computer operating system and may contain files stored in various formats.An RDBMS generally uses the Structured Query Language (SQL) in addition to a language for creating, storing, editing and executing stored procedures, such as the PL / SQL language mentioned above.

[0054] In some examples, system elements may be implemented as computer-readable instructions (e.g., software) on one or more computing devices (e.g., servers, personal computers, etc.) stored on computer-readable media associated with them (e.g., disks, memory, etc.). A computer program product may include such instructions stored on computer-readable media for performing the functions described in this document.

[0055] In the drawings, identical reference symbols denote the same elements. Furthermore, some or all of these elements could be modified. Regarding the media, processes, systems, procedures, heuristics, etc., described herein, it is understood that although the steps of such processes, etc., have been described as following a specific, ordered sequence, such processes could be implemented in practice, with the described steps being carried out in an order that differs from the sequence described in this document. It is also understood that certain steps could be performed simultaneously, that other steps could be added, or that certain steps described herein could be omitted.The processes, systems and procedures described in this document should always be implemented and / or carried out in accordance with applicable owner / user instructions and / or safety guidelines.

[0056] The revelation has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is understood that the terminology used is intended to be descriptive and not restrictive. The use of "in response to," "at determining," "at selecting," etc., indicates a causal relationship, not merely a temporal one. Expressions such as "front," "forward," "alongside," "back," "behind," "left," "right," "across," "upward," "downward," "vertical," etc., are understood in relation to Vehicle 100. The adjectives "first" and "second" are used throughout the Scripture as identifiers and are not intended to indicate any meaning, order, or quantity. In light of the foregoing teachings, many modifications and variations of the present revelation are possible, and the revelation may be implemented differently than specifically described.

[0057] According to the present invention, a vehicle is provided comprising: a display panel mounted on a dashboard of the vehicle, wherein the display panel is switchable between a private mode and a public mode, the display panel in the private mode displaying visual content that is visible to an occupant of a first seat of the vehicle and not visible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, wherein the display panel in the public mode displays visual content that is visible to occupants of both the first and second seats; and a transparent sound-generating film positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to the occupant of the first seat and not audible to the occupant of the second seat, wherein the sound-generating film is laminated onto either the display panel or a windshield of the vehicle.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the sound-generating film is laminated onto the windshield.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the first seat is a passenger seat of the vehicle and the second seat is a driver's seat of the vehicle.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the vehicle lacks a sound-generating foil that is positioned to emit focused sound audible to the second seat.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a loudspeaker positioned in such a way that it emits unfocused sound that is audible to the occupants of the first seat and the second seat.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the invention is further characterized by a computer that is programmed to select one of the sound-generating film and the loudspeaker for sound output and to output sound corresponding to the visual content of the display field to the selected sound-generating film and loudspeaker.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the computer is programmed to select the sound-generating foil for sound output in response to the fact that the vehicle is in motion.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the computer is programmed to select the loudspeaker for sound output in response to the vehicle being stationary.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the computer is programmed to select the sound-generating foil for sound output in response to the display being switched to private mode.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the computer is programmed to select the speaker for sound output in response to the display being switched to public mode.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the computer is programmed to select the sound generation foil for sound output in response to an input from an occupant of the vehicle.

[0068] According to the present invention, a computer is provided comprising a processor and a memory, wherein instructions are stored in the memory that can be executed by the processor to: select a transparent sound-generating film and a loudspeaker for sound output, wherein the sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to an occupant of a first seat of a vehicle and inaudible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, wherein the sound-generating film is laminated onto a display panel of the vehicle or a windshield of the vehicle, wherein the loudspeaker is positioned to emit unfocused sound that is audible to the occupants of the first seat and the second seat; and output sound corresponding to the visual content of the display panel to the selected occupant of the sound-generating film and the loudspeaker.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the instructions also include instructions to select the sound-generating foil for sound output in response to the vehicle being in motion.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the instructions also include instructions to select the loudspeaker for sound output in response to the vehicle being stationary.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the instructions further include instructions to switch the display field between a private mode and a public mode, wherein in the private mode the display field shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of a first seat of the vehicle and not visible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, and wherein in the public mode the display field shows visual content that is visible to occupants of both the first and second seats.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the instructions further include instructions to select the sound generation foil for sound output in response to the display panel being switched to private mode.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the instructions also include instructions to select the speaker for sound output in response to the display panel being switched to public mode.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the instructions also include instructions to select the sound generation foil for sound output in response to input from a vehicle occupant.

[0075] According to the present invention, a method comprises: selecting a transparent sound-generating film and a loudspeaker for sound output, wherein the sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound that is audible to an occupant of a first seat of a vehicle and inaudible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, wherein the sound-generating film is laminated onto a display panel of the vehicle or a windshield of the vehicle, wherein the loudspeaker is positioned to emit unfocused sound that is audible to the occupants of the first seat and the second seat; and outputting sound corresponding to the visual content of the display panel to the selected occupant from the sound-generating film and the loudspeaker.

[0076] In one aspect of the invention, the sound-generating film is laminated onto the windshield.

Claims

[1] Procedure, encompassing: Selecting a transparent sound-generating film and a loudspeaker for sound output, wherein the sound-generating film is positioned to emit focused sound audible to an occupant of a first seat of a vehicle and inaudible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, wherein the sound-generating film is laminated onto a display panel of the vehicle or a windshield of the vehicle, wherein the loudspeaker is positioned to emit unfocused sound audible to the occupants of the first and second seats; and Output of sound corresponding to the visual content of the display field to the selected sound-generating foil and speaker. [2] Method according to claim 1, further comprising selecting the sound generation foil for sound output in response to the fact that the vehicle is in motion. [3] Method according to claim 2, further comprising selecting the loudspeaker to output sound in response to the vehicle being stationary. [4] Method according to claim 1, further comprising switching the display field between a private mode and a public mode, wherein the display field in the private mode displays visual content that is visible to an occupant of a first seat of the vehicle and not visible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, wherein the display field in the public mode displays visual content that is visible to occupants of the first seat and the second seat. [5] Method according to claim 4, further comprising selecting the sound generation foil for sound output in response to the display field being switched to private mode. [6] Method according to claim 5, further comprising selecting the loudspeaker for sound output in response to the display being switched to public mode. [7] Method according to claim 1, further comprising selecting the sound generation foil for sound output in response to an input from an occupant of the vehicle. [8] Computer comprising a processor and a memory, wherein the memory contains instructions that can be executed by the processor to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1-7. [9] Vehicle, comprising: the computer according to claim 8; the display field; the sound-generating foil; and the loudspeaker. [10] Vehicle, comprising: a display panel mounted on a vehicle dashboard, wherein the display panel is switchable between a private mode and a public mode, wherein in the private mode the display panel shows visual content that is visible to an occupant of a first seat of the vehicle and not visible to an occupant of a second seat of the vehicle, wherein in the public mode the display panel shows visual content that is visible to occupants of both the first and second seats; and a transparent sound-generating film positioned to emit focused sound audible to the occupant of the first seat and inaudible to the occupant of the second seat, wherein the sound-generating film is laminated onto one of the display panel or windscreen of the vehicle. [11] Vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the sound-generating film is laminated onto the windscreen. [12] Vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the first seat is a passenger seat of the vehicle and the second seat is a driver's seat of the vehicle. [13] Vehicle according to claim 12, wherein the vehicle lacks a sound-generating foil positioned to emit focused sound audible to the second seat. [14] Vehicle according to claim 10, further comprising a loudspeaker positioned to emit unfocused sound audible to the occupants of the first seat and the second seat.

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