Drive device, acoustic device, and vehicle door

Abstract

To achieve simplification and reduction of costs of extension involving addition of a speaker and an amplifier.SOLUTION: A drive device for driving a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, includes: an input connector which is disposed at the vehicle inner side relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit and to which an input signal including a sound signal is input; and an amplifier which is disposed at the vehicle outer side relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit and processes the sound signal input through the input connector.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a drive device, an acoustic device, and a vehicle door. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a system in which a four-channel amplifier installed in the console or the like of a vehicle drives a plurality of speakers arranged in the doors or the like of the vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-197578 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, when various user requirements regarding specifications such as output and number of channels are anticipated, it may be necessary to prepare multiple types of main units with different specifications in advance, or the main units may have to be made more highly functional than necessary, resulting in the problem of high costs.

[0005] Furthermore, with the technology described in Patent Document 1, when expanding the system by adding speakers and amplifiers, additional space or mounting parts are required to install the additional amplifiers in the vehicle, and the installation of wiring in the vehicle becomes complicated.

[0006] In consideration of the above circumstances, one aspect of the present disclosure aims to simplify and reduce the cost of expansion involving the addition of speakers and amplifiers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, a drive device according to a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is a drive device that drives a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, and includes an input connector that is arranged on the inside of the vehicle relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and into which an input signal including a sound signal is input, and an amplifier that is arranged on the outside of the vehicle relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0008] Furthermore, a driving device according to another preferred aspect of the present disclosure is a driving device that drives a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, and includes: a flange that is fixed to the speaker unit and attached to the panel; an input connector that is arranged on the front side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, and into which an input signal including a sound signal is input; and an amplifier that is arranged on the back side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0009] Furthermore, an acoustic device according to a preferred aspect of the present disclosure includes the driving device of the above-described aspect and the speaker unit.

[0010] A vehicle door according to a preferred aspect of the present disclosure includes the drive device of the above aspect and the panel. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a side view showing a state in which an acoustic device using a driving device according to a first embodiment is in use. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a view of the acoustic device shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the inside of the vehicle relative to the panel. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a view of the acoustic device shown in FIG. 1 as seen from the vehicle exterior relative to the panel. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which an amplifier and a speaker unit of the driving device according to the first embodiment are separated. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an amplifier of the driving device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an acoustic device using a driving device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a vehicle door. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the dimensions and scale of each part in the drawings are appropriately different from those in reality. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are preferred specific examples of the present disclosure. Therefore, various technically preferable limitations are applied to the present embodiments. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description to the effect that the present disclosure is limited.

[0013] 1. First embodiment 1-1.Sound equipment Fig. 1 is a side view showing a state in which an acoustic device 1 using a drive unit 10 according to the first embodiment is in use. Fig. 2 is a view of the acoustic device 1 shown in Fig. 1 as seen from the inside of the vehicle relative to a panel 130. Fig. 3 is a view of the acoustic device 1 shown in Fig. 1 as seen from the outside of the vehicle relative to the panel.

[0014] Hereinafter, an outline of the acoustic device 1 will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3. In the following, the central axis of the speaker unit 20 is the axis AX, the direction from the rear face of the speaker unit 20 to the front face along the axis AX is the X1 direction, and the direction opposite to the X1 direction from the front face of the speaker unit 20 to the rear face is the X2 direction. In the following, the X1 direction and the X2 direction may be referred to as the axial direction without distinction. In addition, a direction along an imaginary circle centered on the axis AX or the opposite direction may be referred to as the circumferential direction. Furthermore, a direction perpendicular to the axis AX and moving away from the axis AX or the opposite direction may be referred to as the radial direction. In the following, viewing in the direction along the axis AX may be referred to as a planar view.

[0015] The audio device 1 is installed in a vehicle and emits sound into the vehicle cabin, and has a speaker function and an amplifier function. In this embodiment, the amplifier function is for driving other speakers installed when the speaker system is expanded. Note that the amplifier function may also be used to drive the speaker of the audio device 1. The audio device 1 is attached to a panel 130 by screwing or the like.

[0016] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the panel 130 is an inner panel of a vehicle door that is disposed between the outer panel 110 and the door trim 120. Therefore, a space S1 is provided between the panel 130 and the door trim 120 in the X1 direction relative to the panel 130, i.e., on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel 130. On the other hand, a space S2 is provided between the panel 130 and the outer panel 110 in the X2 direction relative to the panel 130, i.e., on the vehicle exterior side relative to the panel 130. Note that Fig. 1 schematically illustrates the outer panel 110, the door trim 120, and the panel 130.

[0017] An opening 131 is provided in the panel 130, and the acoustic device 1 is disposed so as to cover the opening 131. The panel 130 is not limited to an inner panel of a vehicle door, and may be, for example, a panel other than an inner panel of a vehicle door, or a panel used for something other than a vehicle door. An example of a vehicle door will be described later with reference to FIG. 7.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, the acoustic device 1 includes a driving device 10 and a speaker unit 20.

[0019] The speaker unit 20 is a dynamic driver that converts the electrical sound signal from the drive unit 10 into sound, and is attached to the vehicle panel 130 by screwing or the like. The speaker unit 20 has a frame 21, a diaphragm 22, and a magnetic circuit 23.

[0020] The frame 21 is a structure for supporting the diaphragm 22 and the magnetic circuit 23. The frame 21 is made of, for example, a metal material or a resin material.

[0021] In the example shown in FIG. 1, frame 21 has a shape roughly following the side of a truncated cone that extends in the X1 direction from axis AX. The outer periphery of diaphragm 22 is bonded to the end of frame 21 in the X1 direction with an adhesive or the like. A flange 11, which will be described later, is fixed to a location of frame 21 a predetermined distance in the X2 direction from the end of frame 21 in the X1 direction. Meanwhile, a magnetic circuit 23 is bonded to the end of frame 21 in the X2 direction with an adhesive or the like. The shape of frame 21 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1 and can be any shape. Frame 21 may be formed of a single member, or may be formed of multiple members that are bonded to each other with adhesive or the like.

[0022] The diaphragm 22 is a vibrating body made of a sheet material and emits sound by vibration. The sheet material constituting the diaphragm 22 is obtained, for example, by impregnating a fiber substrate with a resin material and then curing or solidifying the resin material. Examples of the resin material include polyester resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane, melamine resin, modified rubber resin, and phenolic resin. Examples of the fiber substrate include carbon fiber, aramid fiber, glass fiber, ceramic fiber, silica fiber, metal fiber, potassium titanate fiber, zirconia fiber, polyacrylate fiber, polyphenylene sulfide fiber, vinylon fiber, rayon fiber, nylon fiber, polyester fiber, acrylic fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyethylene fiber, cotton fiber, hemp fiber, and cellulose fiber. The surface of the sheet material may be provided with a coating film made of, for example, a metal such as aluminum or an inorganic material such as diamond-like carbon (DLC).

[0023] Diaphragm 22 has a surface facing the X1 direction and a surface facing the X2 direction, and vibrates in a direction along axis AX. The surface of diaphragm 22 facing the X1 direction is a sound emitting surface. Although not shown, a voice coil that generates a magnetic field in response to input of an electrical sound signal from drive device 10 is fixed to the surface of diaphragm 22 facing the X2 direction. In the example shown in FIG. 1, diaphragm 22 is cone-shaped. Note that the shape of diaphragm 22 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1 and may be, for example, dome-shaped.

[0024] Magnetic circuit 23 is a structure that generates a magnetic field that acts on the magnetic field from the voice coil fixed to diaphragm 22. Magnetic circuit 23 includes permanent magnet 23a and yoke 23b. Permanent magnet 23a is a magnet such as a ferrite magnet or a neodymium magnet. Yoke 23b is made of a soft magnetic material and guides the magnetic flux from permanent magnet 23a to the voice coil. Therefore, when the magnetic field from the voice coil due to a sound signal acts on the magnetic field from magnetic circuit 23, diaphragm 22 vibrates in response to the sound signal.

[0025] The driving device 10 has a function of amplifying a sound signal included in an input signal and a function of outputting the amplified sound signal to another speaker. These functions enable the driving device 10 to drive another speaker. In addition to these functions, the driving device 10 of this embodiment also has a function of outputting an output signal based on an input signal input from an external device.

[0026] The driving device 10 includes a flange 11, an input connector 12, an output connector 13, and an amplifier 14.

[0027] The flange 11 is a member that is fixed to the speaker unit 20 and attached to the panel 130 by screwing or the like. The flange 11 is either formed integrally with the frame 21, or is fixed to the speaker unit 20 by being joined to the frame 21 by screwing or adhesive or the like. The flange 11 may also be a part of the speaker unit 20.

[0028] The flange 11 is disposed in a position in the X1 direction with respect to the panel 130. As a result, the flange 11 is disposed in the space S1 between the panel 130 and the door trim 120.

[0029] 1 and 2, flange 11 protrudes radially outward from a location a predetermined distance in the X2 direction from the end of frame 21 of speaker unit 20 in the X1 direction, and has a plurality of holes 11a for screwing to panel 130, as shown in Fig. 2. Note that the shape of flange 11 is not limited to the example shown in the drawings and is arbitrary. Furthermore, the method of fixing speaker unit 20 to panel 130 is not limited to screwing, and in addition to screwing, other methods include, for example, providing a screw thread along the periphery of frame 21 and screwing it into opening 131 in panel 130, or fixing flange 11 to panel 130 with a separately prepared fastener.

[0030] The input connector 12 is a connector that is electrically connected to a device such as a head unit (not shown), and receives an input signal from the device.

[0031] In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, the input connector 12 is a male connector, and a female connector that fits the male connector is connected to the input connector 12. The shape of the input connector 12 is not limited to the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, and is arbitrary. The input connector 12 may also be a female connector. Furthermore, the input connector 12 may be made up of multiple connectors.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the input connector 12 is supported by the speaker unit 20 by being fixed to the frame 21 by fitting, screwing, adhesive, or the like. A cable 15 extending from the input connector 12 fixed to the frame 21 in this manner is connected to the amplifier 14 through a hole (not shown) provided in the frame 21. The hole is closed with a grommet or the like. The input connector 12 is also disposed on the front side of the speaker unit 20 with respect to the flange 11. As a result, the input connector 12 is disposed on the vehicle interior side with respect to the panel 130. Note that if the frame 21 is made of resin, the housing of the input connector 12 may be molded integrally with the frame 21. In this case, the pins of the input connector 12 may be inserted during the molding process.

[0033] In this way, since the input connector 12 is disposed in the space S1 inside the vehicle, it is easy to wire the connector connected to the input connector 12. Furthermore, since the input connector 12 is disposed in the space S1 inside the vehicle, the waterproof function of the input connector 12 can be omitted.

[0034] An input signal input to the input connector 12 is input to an amplifier 14 via a cable 15. The input signal includes an audio signal. The audio signal may be a digital signal or an analog signal. When the audio signal is a digital signal, the input signal is transmitted via, for example, an A / D converter capable of two-way communication via serial communication. 2The input signal is a signal that uses an in-vehicle audio bus such as a B bus. In this case, the input signal may include a signal other than a sound signal, for example, a control signal. The control signal is, for example, a signal that indicates adjustment values ​​such as playback volume, volume balance between left and right speakers, volume balance between front and rear speakers, equalizer or audio mode settings, etc. In this case, the in-vehicle audio bus is connected to, for example, a higher-level device for the drive unit 10, and has the function of inputting and outputting sound signals and various control signals to the higher-level device. The input signal may also include a power signal for driving the amplifier 14. Note that the power signal may be input to the amplifier 14 from an external input terminal of a system separate from that of the input signal. It is preferable that the external input terminal is located in the space S1 inside the vehicle. "A 2 "B" is a registered trademark.

[0035] The output connector 13 is a connector that is electrically connected to at least one speaker unit (not shown) other than the speaker unit 20. To the output connector 13, an output signal from the amplifier 14 is output.

[0036] In the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, output connector 13 is a male connector, and a female connector that fits the male connector is connected to output connector 13. The shape of output connector 13 is not limited to the example shown in Figures 1 and 2, and is arbitrary. Output connector 13 may also be a female connector. Furthermore, output connector 13 may be made up of multiple connectors.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , output connector 13 is supported by speaker unit 20 by being fixed to frame 21 by fitting, screwing, adhesive, or the like. Cable 16 extending from output connector 13 fixed to frame 21 in this manner is connected to amplifier 14 through a hole (not shown) provided in frame 21. This hole is closed with a grommet or the like. Output connector 13 is also disposed on the front side of speaker unit 20 with respect to flange 11. As a result, output connector 13 is disposed on the vehicle interior side with respect to panel 130. Note that if frame 21 is made of resin, the housing of output connector 13 may be molded integrally with frame 21. In this case, the pins of output connector 13 may be inserted during this molding process.

[0038] In this way, output connector 13 is disposed in space S1 inside the vehicle, making it easy to install wiring for a connector connected to output connector 13. Furthermore, by disposing output connector 13 in space S1 inside the vehicle, the waterproof function of output connector 13 can be omitted.

[0039] The output signal output from the output connector 13 is a signal output from the amplifier 14 via a cable 16, and is input to at least one speaker unit (not shown) other than the speaker unit 20. The output signal includes an audio signal. The audio signal may be a digital signal or an analog signal. Note that the A / D converter 13 may be a digital or analog signal capable of two-way communication via serial communication. 2 A connector for an in-vehicle audio bus such as a B bus may be provided at a position forward of the flange 11, separate from the output connector 13. This separate connector is connected to a downstream device of the drive unit 10 via the in-vehicle audio bus, for example, and has the function of bidirectionally inputting and outputting various signals. The input and output signals may include sound signals or control signals similar to the control signals input from the input connector. The control signals may include signal information from a separately installed microphone, sensor, or the like.

[0040] The amplifier 14 is an assembly that processes the audio signal input via the input connector 12. The amplifier 14 in this embodiment has a function of amplifying the audio signal and a function of outputting an output signal based on the input signal.

[0041] 1 and 3, amplifier 14 is supported by speaker unit 20 by being fixed to frame 21 by fitting, screwing, adhesive, or the like. This, combined with the fact that input connector 12 is supported by speaker unit 20, makes it possible to add amplifier 14 by simply attaching speaker unit 20 to panel 130, without requiring any additional mounting parts.

[0042] Furthermore, amplifier 14 is disposed on the rear side of speaker unit 20 relative to flange 11. As a result, amplifier 14 is disposed on the vehicle exterior side relative to panel 130. This allows amplifier 14 to be installed by effectively utilizing space S2 on the vehicle exterior side relative to panel 130.

[0043] The amplifier 14 is electrically connected to the input connector 12 via a cable 15, and receives an input signal from the input connector 12 via the cable 15. The amplifier 14 is also electrically connected to the output connector 13 via a cable 16, and outputs an output signal to the output connector 13 via the cable 16.

[0044] In this way, amplifier 14 outputs an output signal to output connector 13, allowing for expansion to increase the number of channels. The number of channels in amplifier 14 may be single or multiple. If amplifier 14 has multiple channels, expansion to increase the number of channels is possible. When amplifier 14 outputs an audio signal to another expanded speaker unit, an audio signal is input to speaker unit 20 from an existing amplifier installed in a console, for example.

[0045] 1-2.Driver amplifier Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a state in which the amplifier 14 of the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment is separated from the speaker unit 20. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the amplifier 14 of the driving device 10 according to the first embodiment. Note that, for ease of viewing, cables 15 and 16 are not shown in Fig. 4.

[0046] 4, the driving device 10 is attached to the magnetic circuit 23 of the speaker unit 20. Here, the driving device 10 is joined to the speaker unit 20 by fastening with screws 18 or the like.

[0047] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the amplifier 14 includes a substrate 14a and a case 14b.

[0048] The substrate 14a is a circuit board. An amplifier circuit is provided on the substrate 14a, and one ends of the aforementioned cables 15 and 16 are electrically connected to the substrate 14a by solder, a connector, or the like (not shown). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the substrate 14a is arranged so that the axial direction is the thickness direction, and a plurality of electronic components 14a1 are mounted on the surface of the substrate 14a facing the X1 direction. At least one of the plurality of electronic components 14a1 forms an amplifier circuit that amplifies an audio signal included in an input signal. The substrate 14a is also provided with a hole 14g and a plurality of holes 14h. The screw 18 shown in FIG. 4 is passed through the hole 14g. The screw 19 shown in FIG. 4 is passed through the hole 14h. The shape and other aspects of the substrate 14a are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5 and may be arbitrary. The holes 14g and 14h may be provided or omitted as necessary.

[0049] The case 14b accommodates the substrate 14a, thereby providing a waterproof function to the amplifier 14. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the case 14b has a first member 14b1 and a second member 14b2.

[0050] The first member 14b1 is a box-shaped member that opens in the X2 direction. The first member 14b1 is provided with a recess 14c and holes 14d and 14e. The recess 14c accommodates at least a portion of the yoke 23b of the speaker unit 20. Although not shown, the aforementioned cable 15 is passed through the hole 14d. Although not shown, the aforementioned cable 16 is passed through the hole 14e. Although not shown, the first member 14b1 is provided with screw holes that fit with a plurality of screws 19. Note that the first member 14b1 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5 and may be composed of, for example, two or more members.

[0051] The second member 14b2 is a plate-shaped member for sealing the internal space of the first member 14b1, and is joined to the first member 14b1 by screwing using a plurality of screws 19 shown in FIG. 4. The second member 14b2 is provided with a hole 14i and a plurality of holes 14j. A screw 18 shown in FIG. 4 is passed through the hole 14i. A screw 19 shown in FIG. 4 is passed through the hole 14j. A sealing member such as an O-ring may be disposed between the first member 14b1 and the second member 14b2 to improve the sealing performance of the joint between them. The second member 14b2 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5, and may be composed of, for example, two or more members.

[0052] It is preferable that the above-described case 14b has electromagnetic shielding properties. This makes it possible to prevent adverse effects of electromagnetic waves from the speaker unit 20 on the amplifier 14, even when the amplifier 14 is placed close to the speaker unit 20. Furthermore, since the case 14b has electromagnetic shielding properties, there is no need to provide a separate electromagnetic shield inside the case 14b or on the speaker unit 20.

[0053] One or both of the first member 14b1 and the second member 14b2 have heat dissipation properties. This allows the case 14b to have heat dissipation properties. The case 14b is also thermally connected to the electronic components 14a1 that constitute the amplifier circuit. This allows heat from the amplifier circuit to be dissipated through the case 14b. As a result, excessive temperature rise in the amplifier circuit can be prevented. Here, "thermally connected" refers to a state in which the two objects are in direct contact with each other, or to a state in which the two objects are connected via a highly thermally conductive material such as thermal grease or a thermally conductive sheet, or to a state in which the two objects face each other with a gap of 0.5 mm or less. To facilitate heat dissipation by the case 14b, heat dissipation fins may be provided on the outer surface of the case 14b.

[0054] 5 is thermally connected to the yoke 23b via the heat dissipation sheet 17 shown in FIG. 4. This thermally connects the case 14b and the yoke 23b. The heat dissipation sheet 17 is a highly thermally conductive sheet member made of a resin composition containing an inorganic filler. By using such a heat dissipation sheet 17, heat from the case 14b can be efficiently dissipated to the yoke 23b. The case 14b may be fixed to the speaker unit 20 via an attachment part or the like, or may be integrally formed with the frame 21 of the speaker unit 20, or may be integrally formed with the flange 11.

[0055] In this way, case 14b is thermally connected to yoke 23b. This allows yoke 23b to be effectively used as a heat sink to dissipate heat from the amplifier circuit. This more effectively prevents the amplifier circuit from overheating. Note that thermal grease may be used instead of heat dissipation sheet 17. Also, heat dissipation sheet 17 may be provided as needed and may be omitted. Also, case 14b may be disposed separately from yoke 23b without being thermally connected thereto. In this case, case 14b is fixed to frame 21 or the like using an appropriate fixing member.

[0056] As described above, case 14b has recess 14c that houses yoke 23b. This allows for a reduction in size in the thickness direction of acoustic device 1, which is a structure made up of driver device 10 and speaker unit 20. It is preferable that width W of recess 14c be larger than the width of yoke 23b.

[0057] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of thermally connecting the case 14b to the yoke 23b while reducing the size of the acoustic device 1 in the thickness direction, the depth d of the recess 14c may be set appropriately.

[0058] The materials constituting the first member 14b1 and the second member 14b2 are not particularly limited as long as they have the mechanical strength necessary to protect the elements inside the case 14b. However, to enhance the heat dissipation of the case 14b, a material with excellent thermal conductivity is preferred. For example, a metal material, a ceramic material, or a resin composition containing an inorganic filler or inorganic fiber is preferred. To provide electromagnetic shielding, a soft magnetic metal material or a resin composition containing a soft magnetic filler or fiber is more preferred. The case 14b may be provided as needed or omitted. In this case, the substrate 14a may be attached to the yoke 23b directly or via a member with high thermal conductivity. Furthermore, waterproofing or electromagnetic shielding of the substrate 14a may be achieved by other means, such as a mold, if necessary.

[0059] In the above-described acoustic device 1, the input connector 12 and the amplifier 14 are supported by the speaker unit 20, so that the amplifier 14 can be added by simply attaching the speaker unit 20 to the panel 130, without the need for any additional mounting parts. Furthermore, because the amplifier 14 is disposed on the vehicle exterior side relative to the panel 130, the amplifier 14 can be installed by effectively utilizing the space S2 on the vehicle exterior side relative to the panel 130. Furthermore, because the input connector 12 is disposed on the vehicle interior side, it is easy to install wiring for a connector connected to the input connector 12. Furthermore, because the input connector 12 is disposed on the vehicle interior side, the waterproofing function of the input connector 12 can be omitted. From the above, expansion involving the addition of speakers and amplifiers 14 can be simplified and reduced in cost.

[0060] 2. Second embodiment A second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below. In the following exemplary embodiment, for elements whose actions and functions are similar to those of the first embodiment, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be used, and detailed descriptions of each element will be omitted as appropriate.

[0061] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing an acoustic device 1A using a driving device 10A according to the second embodiment. The acoustic device 1A is configured similarly to the acoustic device 1 of the first embodiment, except that it includes a driving device 10A instead of the driving device 10 of the first embodiment. The driving device 10A is configured similarly to the driving device 10 of the first embodiment, except that it includes an amplifier 14A instead of the amplifier 14 of the first embodiment. Note that, for ease of viewing, cables 15 and 16 are not shown in FIG. 6. Also, for ease of explanation, the amplifier 14A is shown schematically in FIG. 6.

[0062] The amplifier 14A includes a substrate 14m and a case 14n. The substrate 14m has the same structure as the substrate 14a of the first embodiment except for its shape. The case 14n has the same structure as the case 14b of the first embodiment except for its shape.

[0063] The case 14n is annular and has a through-hole 14p that penetrates in the axial direction. The through-hole 14p accommodates the yoke 23b. The state in which the amplifier 14A is attached to the speaker unit 20 is shown by a two-dot chain line.

[0064] In this way, case 14n has through hole 14p that accommodates yoke 23b, which allows acoustic device 1, which is a structure made up of driver device 10A and speaker unit 20, to be made smaller in size in the thickness direction.

[0065] The width W of the through hole 14p is preferably larger than the width of the yoke 23b.

[0066] From the viewpoint of reducing the size of the acoustic device 1A in the thickness direction, it is preferable that the axial length of the through-hole 14p, ie, the thickness t of the case 14n, is equal to or less than the protruding length of the yoke 23b.

[0067] According to the second embodiment described above, it is also possible to simplify and reduce the cost of expansion involving the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0068] 3. Mounting object Fig. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing an example of a vehicle door 100. As shown in Fig. 7, the vehicle door 100 includes an outer panel 110, a door trim 120, a panel 130, a drive unit 10, and a packing 170. The vehicle door 100 may include a drive unit 10A instead of the drive unit 10.

[0069] The outer panel 110, the panel 130, and the door trim 120 are arranged side by side in this order in the X1 direction. In this manner, the outer panel 110 faces the exterior of the vehicle, and the door trim 120 is arranged on the interior side of the vehicle, with the panel 130 arranged between the outer panel 110 and the door trim 120. In the example shown in Fig. 7, a frame 150 for a window glass 140 that can move up and down is provided integrally with the outer panel 110 and the panel 130. Note that the frame 150 may be omitted.

[0070] Each of the outer panel 110 and the panel 130 is made of, for example, a steel plate. The outer peripheral edges of the outer panel 110 and the panel 130 are joined to each other by welding or the like. Note that each of the outer panel 110 and the panel 130 is not limited to being made of a steel plate, and may be made of, for example, an aluminum alloy or a carbon fiber composite material.

[0071] A space S2 is provided between the outer panel 110 and the panel 130. The space S2 is used as an enclosure for the speaker unit 20. Although not shown, for example, a window lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the window glass 140 and a door locking mechanism are disposed in the space S2.

[0072] Panel 130 has opening 131 and multiple openings 132. Opening 131 is covered by speaker unit 20. Speaker unit 20 is fixed to panel 130 by screws or the like. Each of multiple openings 132 is a hole used, for example, for assembling the aforementioned lifting mechanism, door lock mechanism, etc. At least one of multiple openings 132 may be covered by a sheet member made of a resin material or the like.

[0073] The door trim 120 is an interior material made of, for example, resin. The door trim 120 has a plurality of holes 121. The plurality of holes 121 are used as paths for emitting sound from the speaker unit 20 into the space inside the vehicle cabin. Note that instead of the plurality of holes 121, a single hole may be provided in the door trim 120. The plurality of holes 121 may also be covered with a mesh material such as a saran net.

[0074] The door trim 120 is detachably attached to the panel 130 by a plurality of connecting members 160. Each connecting member 160 is, for example, a rivet or a clip made of resin. Each connecting member 160 has one end fixed to the door trim 120 and the other end inserted into 133 of the panel 130.

[0075] A packing 170 is disposed between the door trim 120 and the panel 130. The packing 170 is an annular elastic member that fits along the outer peripheral edge of the door trim 120 or the panel 130, and seals the gap between the door trim 120 and the panel 130 when it is elastically deformed between them. The packing 170 is made of, for example, a rubber material or an elastomer material. The packing 170 may also be made of a closed-cell foam.

[0076] Although not shown in the figure, a member such as a sponge that can seal the gap between the speaker unit 20 and the door trim 120 without interfering with the movement of the speaker unit 20 is inserted between the speaker unit 20 and the door trim 120. This prevents interference between the sounds emitted from both sides of the diaphragm 22.

[0077] Panel 130 is an inner panel of a vehicle door. Therefore, on the vehicle exterior side of panel 130, a space S2 is provided between panel 130 and outer panel 110. Therefore, amplifier 14 can be installed using space S2. Meanwhile, on the vehicle interior side of panel 130, a space S1 is provided between panel 130 and door trim 120. Therefore, it is easy to install wiring for a connector connected to input connector 12. As described above, since panel 130 is an inner panel of a vehicle door, the effect of arranging input connector 12 on the vehicle interior side is significant.

[0078] The vehicle door 100 described above includes the drive unit 10, which makes it possible to simplify and reduce the cost of expansion involving the addition of a speaker and amplifier 14.

[0079] 4. Variations The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible as described below. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0080] 4-1. Variation 1 In each of the above-described embodiments, the flange 11 is integral with the speaker unit 20, but the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the flange 11 may be separate from the speaker unit 20.

[0081] 4-2. Variation 2 In each of the above-described embodiments, the amplifiers 14, 14A are separate from the speaker unit 20, but the present invention is not limited to this. The amplifiers 14, 14A may be integrated with the speaker unit 20.

[0082] 4-3. Variation 3 In each of the above-described embodiments, a configuration in which each speaker unit 20 is a dynamic type is exemplified, but this is not limited to this, and the speaker unit of the present disclosure may be of a conversion type such as a capacitor type (electrostatic type), ribbon type, ion type (discharge type), magnetic type, or piezoelectric type.

[0083] 4-4. Variation 4 In the above-described embodiment, the drive units 10, 10A are attached to the inner panel of a vehicle door, but the present invention is not limited to this. The panel to which the drive units 10, 10A are attached may be any panel that separates the interior and exterior of the vehicle, and is not limited to the vehicle door. For example, the panel may be the cowl side or firewall (dashboard) of the vehicle.

[0084] 5. Additional Notes From the above-described exemplary embodiments and modifications, the following aspects can be understood, for example.

[0085] (Appendix 1) A first aspect, which is a preferred example of the drive device of the present disclosure, is a drive device that drives a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, and includes an input connector that is arranged on the inside of the vehicle relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and to which an input signal including a sound signal is input, and an amplifier that is arranged on the outside of the vehicle relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0086] According to the above aspects, since the input connector and amplifier are supported by the speaker unit, the amplifier can be added by simply attaching the speaker unit to the panel, without the need for any additional mounting parts. Furthermore, since the amplifier is located on the exterior side of the vehicle relative to the panel, the amplifier can be installed by effectively utilizing the space on the exterior side of the panel. Furthermore, since the input connector is located on the interior side of the vehicle, it is easy to install wiring for a connector connected to the input connector. Furthermore, since the input connector is located on the interior side of the vehicle, the waterproofing function for the input connector can be omitted. From the above, it is possible to simplify and reduce the cost of expansion involving the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0087] (Appendix 2) A second aspect, which is another preferred example of the driving device of the present disclosure, is a driving device for driving a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, and includes: a flange fixed to the speaker unit and attached to the panel; an input connector arranged on the front side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, and into which an input signal including a sound signal is input; and an amplifier arranged on the rear side of the speaker unit relative to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, and processing the sound signal input via the input connector.

[0088] According to the above aspects, since the input connector and amplifier are supported by the speaker unit, the amplifier can be added by simply attaching the speaker unit to the panel, without the need for any additional mounting parts. Furthermore, since the amplifier is located on the exterior side of the vehicle relative to the panel, the amplifier can be installed by effectively utilizing the space on the exterior side of the panel. Furthermore, since the input connector is located on the interior side of the vehicle, it is easy to install wiring for a connector connected to the input connector. Furthermore, since the input connector is located on the interior side of the vehicle, the waterproofing function for the input connector can be omitted. From the above, it is possible to simplify and reduce the cost of expansion involving the addition of speakers and amplifiers.

[0089] (Supplementary Note 3) In a third aspect which is a preferred example of the first or second aspect, the panel is an inner panel of a vehicle door. According to the above aspect, the effect of arranging the input connector on the inside of the vehicle is remarkable.

[0090] (Note 4) In a fourth aspect, which is a preferred example of the third aspect, an output connector is further provided, which is disposed on the vehicle interior side relative to the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and outputs an output signal based on the input signal, and the amplifier outputs the output signal to the output connector. In the above aspects, expansion to increase the number of channels is possible.

[0091] (Supplementary Note 5) In a fifth aspect which is a preferred example of the fourth aspect, the output signal is an audio signal, and the output connector outputs the output signal to another speaker unit. In the above aspect, it is possible to drive another speaker.

[0092] (Supplementary Note 6) In a sixth aspect which is a preferred example of the fourth or fifth aspect, the amplifier has a plurality of channels. According to the above aspect, it is possible to perform an expansion to increase the number of channels.

[0093] (Supplementary Note 7) In a sixth aspect which is a preferred example of any one of the first to sixth aspects, the amplifier has a board on which an amplifier circuit is provided and a case that houses the board. In the above aspect, the amplifier can be provided with a waterproof function.

[0094] (Supplementary Note 8) In an eighth aspect, which is a preferred example of the seventh aspect, the case has electromagnetic shielding properties. In this aspect, even if the amplifier is placed close to the speaker unit, it is possible to prevent adverse effects of electromagnetic waves from the speaker unit on the amplifier.

[0095] (Supplementary Note 9) In the eighth aspect, which is a preferred example of the seventh or eighth aspect, the case has heat dissipation properties and is thermally connected to the electronic components that make up the amplifier circuit. In this aspect, heat from the amplifier circuit can be dissipated from the case. This makes it possible to prevent the amplifier circuit from overheating.

[0096] (Appendix 10) In the tenth aspect, which is a preferred example of the ninth aspect, the speaker unit has a magnetic circuit including a yoke, and the case is thermally connected to the yoke. In this aspect, the yoke can be effectively used as a heat sink to dissipate heat from the amplifier circuit. This makes it possible to more effectively prevent the amplifier circuit from overheating.

[0097] (Supplementary Note 11) In the eleventh aspect, which is a preferred example of the tenth aspect, the case has a recess or a through-hole for accommodating the yoke. In the above aspect, it is possible to reduce the size of the structure consisting of the driver and the speaker unit in the thickness direction.

[0098] (Supplementary Note 12) A twelfth aspect, which is a suitable example of an acoustic device of the present disclosure, comprises the driver device of any one of the first to eleventh aspects and the speaker unit. In the above aspect, an acoustic device is provided that can be easily expanded with the addition of speakers and amplifiers at low cost.

[0099] (Supplementary Note 13) A thirteenth aspect, which is a suitable example of a vehicle door of the present disclosure, includes the drive device of any one of the first to eleventh aspects and the panel. In the above aspects, a vehicle door is provided that can be easily expanded with the addition of speakers and amplifiers at low cost. [Explanation of symbols]

[0100] 1...acoustic device, 1A...acoustic device, 10...driver, 10A...driver, 11...flange, 11a...hole, 12...input connector, 13...output connector, 14...amplifier, 14A...amplifier, 14a...board, 14a1...electronic component, 14b...case, 14b1...first member, 14b2...second member, 14c...recess, 14d...hole, 14e...hole, 14g...hole, 14h...hole, 14i...hole, 14j...hole, 14m...board, 14n...case, 14p...through hole, 15...cable, 16...cable, 1 7...heat dissipation sheet, 18...screw, 19...screw, 20...speaker unit, 21...frame, 22...diaphragm, 23...magnetic circuit, 23a...permanent magnet, 23b...yoke, 100...vehicle door, 110...outer panel, 120...door trim, 121...hole, 130...panel, 131...opening, 132...opening, 140...window glass, 150...frame, 160...connecting member, 170...gasket, 200...object to be mounted, AX...axis, S1...space, S2...space, W...width, d...depth, t...thickness.

Claims

1. A driving device for driving a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, an input connector that is disposed on the vehicle interior side of the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and to which an input signal including a sound signal is input; an amplifier that is disposed on the vehicle exterior side with respect to the panel, is supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector. Drive unit.

2. A driving device for driving a speaker unit attached to a panel of a vehicle, a flange fixed to the speaker unit and attached to the panel; an input connector disposed on a front side of the speaker unit with respect to the flange and supported by the speaker unit, to which an input signal including a sound signal is input; an amplifier that is disposed on the rear side of the speaker unit with respect to the flange, is supported by the speaker unit, and processes the sound signal input via the input connector; Drive unit.

3. The panel is an inner panel of a vehicle door.

3. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. an output connector that is disposed on the vehicle interior side of the panel and supported by the speaker unit, and that outputs an output signal based on the input signal; The amplifier outputs the output signal to the output connector. The drive device according to claim 3 .

5. the output signal is an audio signal; the output connector outputs the output signal to another speaker unit. The drive device according to claim 4.

6. The amplifier has a plurality of channels. The drive device according to claim 4.

7. The amplifier is a substrate on which an amplifier circuit is provided; a case for accommodating the substrate; 3. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The case has electromagnetic shielding properties. The drive device according to claim 7.

9. the case has heat dissipation properties and is thermally connected to electronic components that constitute the amplifier circuit; The drive device according to claim 7.

10. the speaker unit has a magnetic circuit including a yoke, the case is thermally connected to the yoke; The drive device according to claim 9.

11. the case has a recess or a through hole for accommodating the yoke; The drive device according to claim 10.

12. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2; The speaker unit, sound equipment.

13. The drive device according to claim 1 or 2; the panel; Vehicle door.

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