Audio bus lighting control

Abstract

To provide systems, devices and methods for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device.SOLUTION: A method includes receiving audio bus data generated by a source in a vehicle, and generating a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle on the basis of the audio bus data. The method also includes controlling operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle on the basis of the lighting control signal. A lighting control device includes a transceiver for a vehicle audio bus, a controller, and at least one lighting unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and devices for lighting control, and in particular to audio bus lighting control devices, processes, and systems for vehicles. [Background technology]

[0002] There are many types of lighting controls. While some aspects of lighting elements are similar across different applications, lighting controls for specific applications are often specifically tailored. Different applications of lighting usually require application-specific controllers and specific hardware. As an example, lighting elements and controllers for residential use are very different from lighting controls in other applications such as vehicles. Residential lighting elements are usually often turned on or off by a switch, and lighting elements are single color elements configured to provide light for residential use. In addition, some applications of lighting controls impose specific requirements on controllability, power requirements, etc.

[0003] Conventional vehicle configurations include a vehicle electrical system that generally controls lighting elements in the vehicle's instrument panel, vehicle driving lights, and safety lights for passenger dome lights and passenger doors. The lighting elements typically include a single lighting unit with a single light emission color. Although some manufacturers allow for gradual dimming or brightness environments, the lighting elements and controls are typically limited to on or off states. In addition, the elements require their own electrical backbone in the vehicle. The conventional configurations do not allow lighting control beyond single illumination and on / off operations. There is a need for lighting and control of lighting elements in a vehicle apart from overhead or reading light elements that are activated by switches or door opening / closing. There is a need and desire for a control and lighting system that can provide advanced lighting control within a vehicle. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] Disclosed and claimed herein are methods, devices, and systems for vehicle control. One embodiment is directed to a method for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device. The method includes receiving, by the lighting control device, audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle, and generating, by a controller of the lighting control device, a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data. The method also includes controlling, by a switching unit of the lighting control device, operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal.

[0005] In one embodiment, receiving the audio bus data includes receiving time-varying color information on at least one audio channel of the audio bus.

[0006] In one embodiment, receiving the audio bus data includes receiving at least one channel of the audio signal.

[0007] In one embodiment, generating the lighting control signals includes generating pulse width modulated output signals for each of the red, green, and blue outputs to the lighting panel.

[0008] In one embodiment, generating the lighting control signal includes decoding the lighting control signal and outputting control information for at least one color parameter for the lighting panel.

[0009] In one embodiment, generating the lighting control signal includes selecting a preset lighting environment associated with one of the plurality of mood environments, the preset lighting environment being selected according to at least one of a source type, an audio class, and an audio sound profile.

[0010] In one embodiment, controlling the operation includes controlling at least one of the brightness, color, duration of illumination, and rate of change of the lighting elements for the lighting panel.

[0011] In one embodiment, controlling the operation includes controlling a plurality of lighting panels in association with at least one predefined mood environment.

[0012] In one embodiment, the method also includes detecting a vehicle event by the lighting control device and updating operation of at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in response to the vehicle event.

[0013] In one embodiment, the vehicle event is at least one of an incoming communication, a vehicle operating condition, a vehicle condition indicator, and a change in a source of audio bus data.

[0014] Another embodiment is directed to an audio bus lighting control device including an input, an output, and a controller coupled to the input and the output. The controller is configured to receive audio bus data generated by a source in a vehicle and generate a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data. The controller is also configured to control operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal.

[0015] Another embodiment is directed to a system including at least one lighting unit and an audio bus lighting control device coupled to the lighting unit. The audio bus lighting control device is configured to receive audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle and generate lighting control signals for at least one lighting element of the lighting unit in the vehicle based on the audio bus data. The audio bus lighting control device is also configured to control operation of the at least one lighting unit of the vehicle based on the lighting control signals. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) 1. A method for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device, comprising: receiving, by the lighting control device, audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle; generating, by a controller of the lighting control device, a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data; controlling, by a switching unit of the lighting control device, an operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal; The method comprising: (Item 2) 5. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving time-varying color information on at least one audio channel of the audio bus. (Item 3) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving at least one channel of an audio signal of the audio bus. (Item 4) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the lighting control signals includes generating pulse width modulated output signals for each of red, green, and blue color outputs to the lighting panel. (Item 5) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the lighting control signal comprises decoding the lighting control signal and outputting control information for at least one color parameter for the lighting panel. (Item 6) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the lighting control signal includes selecting a preset lighting environment associated with one of a plurality of mood environments, the preset lighting environment being selected according to at least one of a source type, an audio class, and an audio sound profile. (Item 7) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein controlling the operation includes controlling at least one of the brightness, color, duration of illumination, and rate of change of the lighting elements for the lighting panel. (Item 8) 5. The method of claim 1, wherein controlling an operation includes controlling a plurality of lighting panels in association with at least one predefined mood environment. (Item 9) Detecting a vehicle event by the lighting control device and updating operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in response to the vehicle event. (Item 10) 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the vehicle event is at least one of an incoming communication, a vehicle operating state, a vehicle state indicator, and a change in a source of audio bus data. (Item 11) 1. An audio bus lighting control device comprising: An input unit; An output unit; a control device coupled to the input and the output, the control device comprising: receiving audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle; generating a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data; controlling operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal. The device, (Item 12) 2. The device of claim 1, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving time-variant color information on at least one audio channel of the audio bus. (Item 13) 2. The device of claim 1, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving at least one channel of an audio signal on the audio bus. (Item 14) 2. The device of claim 1, wherein generating the lighting control signals includes generating pulse width modulated output signals for each of red, green, and blue outputs to the lighting panel. (Item 15) The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein generating the lighting control signal includes decoding the lighting control signal and outputting control information for at least one color parameter for the lighting panel. (Item 16) The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein generating the lighting control signal includes selecting a preset lighting environment associated with one of a plurality of mood environments, the preset lighting environment being selected according to at least one of a source type, an audio class, and an audio sound profile. (Item 17) The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein controlling the operation includes controlling at least one of the brightness, color, duration of illumination, and rate of change of the lighting elements for the lighting panel. (Item 18) The device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein controlling the operation includes controlling a plurality of lighting panels in association with at least one predefined mood environment. (Item 19) The device of any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: detecting a vehicle event by the lighting control device; and updating operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in response to the vehicle event, the vehicle event being at least one of a change in an incoming communication, a vehicle operating state, a vehicle state indicator, and a source of audio bus data. (Item 20) at least one lighting unit; an audio bus lighting control device coupled to the lighting unit, the audio bus lighting control device comprising: receiving audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle; generating a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the lighting unit in the vehicle based on the audio bus data; controlling operation of the at least one lighting unit of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal; The system is configured as follows: (Summary) The present disclosure relates to systems, devices, and methods for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving audio bus data generated by a source in a vehicle and generating a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data. The method also includes controlling operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal. According to another embodiment, a lighting control device is provided that includes a transceiver for a vehicle audio bus, a controller, and at least one lighting unit.

[0016] Other aspects, features, and techniques will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the following detailed description of the embodiments.

[0017] The features, objects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a graphical representation of a vehicle system including an audio bus lighting control device according to one or more embodiments. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a process for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device in accordance with one or more embodiments. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates a graphical representation of an audio bus lighting control device according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a graphical representation of a vehicle configuration, according to one or more embodiments. [Diagram 5]1 illustrates a graphical representation of a vehicle configuration, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a process for lighting control in accordance with one or more embodiments. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a configuration of a lighting system in accordance with one or more embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Overview and Terminology One aspect of the disclosure is directed to controlling lighting elements in a vehicle. Embodiments are directed to systems, methods, and devices for lighting control of lighting elements based on vehicle voice bus data. Vehicles, such as automobiles, can be manufactured to include multiple lighting units in the passenger compartment that are not controlled by a voice bus, such as overhead dome lights, door safety lights, reading lights, etc. Those passenger compartment units are typically controlled by activation of a switch or opening and closing a vehicle door. As used herein, a lighting unit refers to one or more lighting elements that provide one or more of environmental, accent, and mood lighting effects. The lighting units described herein may operate separately from the vehicle passenger safety lights or reading lights. According to one embodiment, a process is provided for controlling operation of the lighting units based on voice bus data. The process may be directed to control of environmental, mood, or accent lighting in the passenger compartment, including, but not limited to, the vehicle dashboard, the vehicle console, the door panels, the roof panels, the door sills, the center console, the speaker units, etc. A lighting unit, such as an LED panel, may include multiple lighting elements, and each lighting element of the lighting unit may be individually controlled. Lighting control signals may be generated using audio bus data generated by one or more sources in the vehicle.

[0020] Another embodiment is directed to a lighting control device configured to receive audio bus data and control at least one lighting unit of a vehicle. The lighting control device may include a controller for generating lighting control signals. In one embodiment, the audio bus data includes control signals on one or more channels of an audio bus of the vehicle. The audio bus may be configured to carry output for one or more vehicle speakers and one or more infotainment functions. In one embodiment, the audio bus may provide lighting control signals provided by an audio processing unit (e.g., an amplifier), which may be provided directly to the audio bus.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the control signal of the audio bus may indicate one or more of a user environment, a pre-set color environment, and a color mode, and may be provided to the lighting control unit using the audio bus. According to another embodiment, the control signal is an audio signal (e.g., music, speech, broadcast programming, etc.). The lighting control unit may generate the lighting control signal using the audio signal data. A control environment for the lighting panel may be generated by the lighting control unit and output to one or more lighting units. In addition to controlling illumination parameters and color of the lighting elements to enhance the passenger experience, the lighting control may be employed to signal vehicle events. According to one embodiment, the lighting control is directed to providing a light show / display in the cabin to provide the impression of an augmented environment of music, such as a performance, concert, hall, etc.

[0022] As used herein, the terms "a" or "an" shall mean one or more than one. The term "plurality" shall mean two or more than two. The term "another" is defined as second or more. The terms "including" and / or "having" are open-ended (e.g., comprising). The term "or" as used herein shall be interpreted as including or meaning any one or any combination. Thus, "A,B or C" means "any of A;B;C;A and B;A and C;B and C;A,B and C." Exceptions to this definition occur only when a combination of elements, features, steps, or actions is essentially mutually exclusive in some way.

[0023] References throughout this document to "one embodiment," "certain embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar terminology mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of such phrases in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner with one or more embodiments, without limitation.

[0024] Exemplary embodiments Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 depicts a graphical representation of control by an audio bus lighting control device, according to one or more embodiments. According to one embodiment, Figure 1 illustrates components of a vehicle 100. The vehicle 100 includes an audio source 105, an audio processing unit 110, a lighting control unit 115, and a number of lighting units 120. 1~n According to another embodiment, the lighting control unit 115 controls the lighting unit 1201~n As discussed herein, at least one of the audio processing unit 110 and the lighting control unit 115 may control one or more of the lighting units 120 and 130 based on audio bus data generated by sources in the vehicle. 1~n According to another embodiment, one or more inputs or selections may be detected by components of the vehicle 100, such as the audio source 105 and the audio processing unit 110. In one embodiment, the audio source 105 provides audio bus data for lighting control. According to another embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 provides audio bus data for lighting control. 1~n Provides audio bus data for lighting control.

[0025] According to one embodiment, one or more forms of audio bus data may be used for lighting control. FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment including an audio source 105, which may be a head unit or other vehicle source that outputs data (e.g., audio data, user selections, etc.) to an audio processing unit 110. The audio source 105 may include components such as a radio (e.g., terrestrial, satellite, etc.), a media player, and a disc player. The audio source 105 may use an input to receive media from an external device, such as a mobile device. In a particular embodiment, the audio source 105 is associated with a vehicle infotainment unit. In other embodiments, the audio source 105 may be a component of the vehicle infotainment unit. The audio processing unit 110 may be configured to receive the output of the audio source 105 and generate one or more signals for components of the vehicle, such as vehicle speakers. The audio processing unit 110 may be configured to set output levels for multiple speakers and provide individual outputs to one or more speaker elements. As an example, for a vehicle including front left, front center, front right, rear left, rear center, and rear left speakers, audio processing unit 110 may be configured to set the volume and equalizer (e.g., treble, bass, etc.) for each speaker unit. According to another embodiment, audio processing unit 110 may be configured to generate output for two-way and three-way speaker configurations based on the output of audio source 105. According to one embodiment, the output of audio processing unit 110 may be provided to various speakers of vehicle 100 by one or more connections including multiple channels, such as an audio bus shown as bus 130. Audio processing unit 110 may output audio data to one or more channels.

[0026] In some embodiments, audio source 105 and audio processing unit 110 may be a single unit. Although FIG. 1 depicts a single audio processing unit 110 and a single audio source 105, it should be appreciated that multiple audio sources and audio processing units may provide audio bus data to audio bus 130. The audio bus data may provide one or more channels including audio output for multiple vehicle speakers. According to one embodiment, the audio signals provided to audio bus 130 are sent to lighting units 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370, 380, 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, 670, 680, 690, 700, 710, 720, 730, 740, 750, 760, 770, 780, 790, 800, 810, 820, 830, 840, 850, 860, 870, 880, 890, 900, 90 1~n According to another embodiment, the audio source 105 of the vehicle 100 may be employed by the lighting control unit 115 to control one or more of the lighting units 120. 1~n One or more control signals may be output to audio bus 130 to signal a desired lighting environment for the

[0027] In particular embodiments, audio processing unit 110 may amplify and direct audio output onto one or more channels of audio bus 130. As used herein, a channel of audio bus 130 may relate to at least one of a dedicated cable (e.g., a wired connection, etc.) and an encoded channel (e.g., a PWM channel, etc.). Audio bus 130 may include multiple channels.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 communicates with the lighting unit 120 via an audio bus 130. 1~n1 may be configured to provide audio bus data, such as control signals, to the lighting control unit 115 of the vehicle 100 for control of the lighting control unit 115. Thus, control signals from the audio processing unit 110 may be output to the audio bus 130 and provided by the audio bus 130 to the lighting control unit 115. In that manner, the audio bus 130 may be used to carry audio signals to the speaker elements and may also allow lighting control data to be provided to the audio bus 130. An advantage of the configuration of the audio processing unit 110 and audio bus 130 in FIG. 1 may be to provide a direct link from the audio processing unit 110 to the lighting control unit 115 and may include one or more channels. Additionally, the audio processing unit 110 may control and direct the lighting output.

[0029] The audio processing unit 110 may be configured to provide control information in one or more forms. In one embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 is 1~n 1. The audio processing unit 110 may be configured to provide at least one color parameter for or control information for outputting an output environment. By way of example, the data output to the audio bus 130 may include time-varying color information on at least one channel of the audio bus 130 (e.g., an audio channel, a communication channel, etc.). In one embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 provides to the audio bus 130 at least one audio channel of an audio signal received by the lighting control unit 115.

[0030] In one embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 is configured to provide to the audio bus 130 a lighting control signal that identifies a pre-defined lighting environment associated with one of the plurality of mood environments. 1~n The light control unit 115 may detect the light intensity and output it as a coded signal, which may not be coded, to control the output of the light unit 120. 1~nThe lighting control signal may be generated according to a preset lighting environment by generating a pulse width modulated output signal for each of red, green, and blue that is output to the audio bus 130. The lighting control signal may be provided in addition to or separate from the audio signal on the audio bus 130. According to another embodiment, generating the lighting control signal includes decoding the lighting control signal and outputting control information for at least one color parameter for the lighting panel. The lighting control signal may be based on the selected preset environment according to at least one of the source type, audio class, and audio sound profile. For example, an audio output generated by a mobile device connected to the audio processing unit 110 may result in a different or modified lighting configuration for an audio output associated with a radio function of the audio source 105.

[0031] According to another embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 is configured to control the lighting output based on one or more vehicle events. For example, one or more lighting indications or environments may be activated in response to a vehicle event. During a pre-set lighting configuration or mood, a vehicle event may be detected to output a notification of the vehicle event, which may cause the audio processing unit 110 to output a control signal. The audio processing unit 110 may pre-set a flash or series of flashes of light of the same or different color as the current mood indication in some or all of the vehicle. In some cases, the notification may be localized to the vehicle operator. The detection of the vehicle event by the audio processing unit 110 and updating the operation of at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal may be responsive to a vehicle event, such as one or more of a change in an incoming communication, a vehicle operating state, a vehicle state indicator, and a source of audio bus data.

[0032] In one embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 controls the lighting units 120 by controlling at least one of the brightness, color, duration of illumination, and rate of change of the lighting elements for the lighting panels. 1~nAccording to another embodiment, the lighting unit 120 1~n The control of the lighting panels is associated with at least one predefined mood environment, in which some lighting elements may be controlled to provide directed light output and create / complement a "mood" within the vehicle.

[0033] The audio processing unit 110 can be configured to provide several functions and provide advantages over conventional lighting control as well. As an example, the audio processing unit 110 may be configured to communicate and direct lighting operations using multiple channels of the audio bus 130. In addition, the audio processing unit 110 can control signals to different parts or speaker assemblies of the vehicle. The output environment of the audio processing unit 110 may be based on presets that allow selection of a desired environment by input to the infotainment or head unit.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the lighting control unit 115 of the vehicle 100 communicates with the multiple lighting units 120 using at least one channel of the audio bus 130. 1~n The lighting unit 120 of the vehicle 100 is configured to control 1~n may generally refer to a multi-color LED unit including one or more lighting elements, such as an LED, an LED panel, an LED string, a lighting unit, etc. The vehicle 100 may use LED-type lighting units 120 due to their reasonable cost, favorable power requirements, and controllability. 1~n The vehicle 100 may employ one or more types and formats of lighting units 120 such that multiple panel sizes and types can be employed on the vehicle 100. 1~n References herein to a lighting panel relate to multiple lighting elements that can be individually controlled over an audio bus. It should be appreciated that the principles of the present disclosure may be applied to other types of lighting units.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the audio processing unit 110 may be configured to detect and classify audio output at different locations in the vehicle. 1~n to provide a lighting output.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the lighting control unit 115 is configured to provide ambient mood lighting. In one embodiment, the lighting control unit 115 is configured to store a number of pre-defined mood environments. Each mood environment can provide an associated color display in the vehicle. As an example, a mood environment can be configured to store a number of pre-defined mood environments, such as a lighting unit 120 that provides a fixed and sequential color, such as a red light, in the vehicle cabin. 1~n Alternatively, the pre-set mood environment may be for providing a combination of light colors, such as yellow and white light, in sequence. A display of three or more colors may be provided. The mood environment may also be set to define the duration, rate of change, brightness, etc., for which a color or lighting element is activated. In addition, the mood environment may be set to define the duration, rate of change, brightness, etc., for which a color or lighting element is activated. 1~n According to one embodiment, the color output parameters for the lighting units 120 may be individually defined. 1~n The lighting units 120 may be configured to provide one or more pre-set moods, such as concert, nightclub, laid back, cosmic, etc. 1~n The control unit 104 may be configured to provide one or more pre-set moods and color themes that can be selected or modified using the control unit or audio source 105. In one exemplary embodiment of audio playback, a nightclub mood is generated by controlling the lighting units 120 to create lighting effects with rapid variations in light color, intensity, and distribution utilizing vivid color schemes. 1~nAlternatively, a laid back mood may be configured to create gentle variations in lighting color utilizing a light color scheme. One or more additional moods or configurations may be controlled providing parameters for the rate of variation of color change, color, intensity, light distribution to provide multiple mood presentations.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the lighting control unit 115 may be configured to determine a mood environment based on audio data received on the audio bus 130. As a non-limiting example, audio data including the bus output loudly to a speaker may signal a mood with the lighting elements being pulsed based on the rhythmic output of the audio source. Alternatively, audio output indicating non-musical audio programming (e.g., news, broadcasts, audio titles, etc.) may signal a continuous or oscillating output of one or more colors at a slower rate of change compared to the pulsed output format described above. In other embodiments, one or more non-audio sources of information may be employed to modify the mood or mood selection. As examples, one or more of exterior temperature, light level (e.g., daytime vs. nighttime), vehicle speed, weather (e.g., rain, snow, fog, etc.) may be used to change or override the mood environment. Additionally, one or more user commands may be detected and employed to change or modify the output of the lighting elements.

[0038] As described herein, the lighting control unit 115 may control the lighting unit 120 to provide lighting (e.g., ambient, mood, etc.) within a vehicle interior, such as a passenger cabin, separate from the vehicle's safety or reading lights. 1~n For example, the lighting unit 120 may be configured to control 1~n Each of the lighting units 120 may be located at a different position on the vehicle. 1~nmay be associated with different types of units. By way of example, vehicle 100 may include lighting units 120 for one or more of, but not limited to, passenger door lighting, dashboard lighting, accent lighting, ceiling lighting, speaker lighting, headrest lighting, console lighting, door sill lighting, under seat and console lighting, etc. 1~n The lighting unit 120 may include 1~n The lighting units 120 may be located at multiple locations on the vehicle. 1~n may be associated with the location of the speaker unit. In another embodiment, the vehicle 100 may include a lighting unit 120 having a speaker element. 1~n and a lighting unit 120 separate from the speaker element. 1~n In this way, the lighting unit 120 1~n can provide a source of ambient lighting within the vehicle. Lighting control may be provided by controlling one or more of the color, brightness, period of change, and activation of the lighting elements. Mood lighting and one or more pre-set configurations can provide a particular impression and atmosphere. Mood lighting may be controlled to reflect the type of output of the audio source. According to another embodiment, the lighting unit 120 1~n may be controlled to provide an indication separately or in addition to one or more illuminated displays of the vehicle. 1~n may be controlled to illuminate (e.g., light up, flash, change color, blink, etc.) when a vehicle event is detected. As used herein, a vehicle event may relate to an operating condition or warning associated with vehicle operation and / or incoming communications.

[0039] 1 is an example representation of a vehicle 100 according to one or more embodiments. In certain embodiments, the vehicle 100 may include a lighting control unit 115 for each lighting panel. In other embodiments, the vehicle 100 may include a lighting control unit for controlling multiple lighting elements on one or more lighting panels. It should also be appreciated that the vehicle 100 may include one or more additional components not shown in FIG.

[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a process for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device, according to one or more embodiments. Process 200 may be executed by a lighting control unit (e.g., lighting control unit 115 of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, process 200 includes receiving audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle at block 205, generating a lighting control signal at block 210, and controlling one or more lighting elements at block 215. As discussed below, process 200 enables providing a rich set of output configurations and controls for multiple lighting elements in the vehicle. Process 200 can not only provide activation of a set of lighting units. In addition to enabling control using the audio bus, process 200 can consider at least one vehicle-specific condition or event for control of the lighting elements.

[0041] Process 200 may begin by receiving audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle at block 205. In one embodiment, a lighting control unit (e.g., lighting control unit 115) receives the audio bus data. According to another embodiment, the lighting control unit includes a transceiver that includes one or more physical connections to the audio bus. In one embodiment, receiving the audio bus data includes receiving time-variable color information on at least one audio channel of the audio bus. By way of example, signal encoding lighting parameters for each lighting element of the lighting unit including color, activation period, brightness, and color components (e.g., red, green, and blue) may be encoded in the signals of the audio bus. In another embodiment, lighting controls may be transmitted to a controller on the audio bus using pulse width modifications. In another embodiment, an indication of the current color mode is transmitted to the lighting controller. The audio bus data may provide audio data on one or more channels of the audio bus.

[0042] According to another embodiment, the audio data includes an audio signal to be output to a speaker. The lighting control unit may receive the audio signal in either analog or encoded digital form on an audio bus and may determine a lighting control environment based on the audio signal. By way of example, one or more of tempo, frequency response (e.g., deeper bass, dynamic range, higher pitch, etc.) may be used to generate the lighting control signal.

[0043] At block 210, the lighting control device generates a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data. In one embodiment, the lighting control signal is generated to include a pulse width modulated output signal for each of red, green, and blue that is output to a lighting panel. In one embodiment, multiple sets of lighting control signals may be generated by the controller and provided to a switching circuit. The switching circuit may distribute the control signals to multiple lighting units.

[0044] In one embodiment, the lighting control signal in block 210 is generated by a controller that decodes the lighting control signal on an audio bus. The control information may be processed by the controller to output at least one color parameter for the lighting panel. In a particular embodiment, generating the lighting control signal includes selecting a preset lighting environment associated with one of a plurality of mood environments. The preset lighting environment is selected according to at least one of a source type, an audio class, and an audio sound profile.

[0045] At block 215, the lighting control device controls operation of at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal. In one embodiment, controlling the operation includes controlling at least one of brightness, color, duration of illumination, and rate of change of the lighting element for the lighting panel. According to another embodiment, controlling the operation includes controlling operation of the plurality of lighting panels in association with at least one predefined mood environment. The control relates to one or more of color, brightness, illumination, etc.

[0046] According to one embodiment, process 200 may optionally detect one or more user environments at block 220. In one embodiment, the user environment may include one or more selections of a mood environment, a color, a color set, and a preset control by a user interface of an audio source. At block 210, a lighting control signal may be generated one or more times based on the user environment.

[0047] According to another embodiment, a vehicle event may optionally be detected at block 225. Detecting the event may update the operation of at least one lighting element of the vehicle. The vehicle event may relate to one or more of an incoming communication, a vehicle shutdown, a vehicle status indicator, and a change in a source of audio bus data.

[0048] 3 depicts a graphical representation of an audio bus lighting control device according to one or more embodiments. Device 305 may be employed as a lighting control device (e.g., lighting control unit 115 of FIG. 1). According to one embodiment, device 305 may be configured to perform one or more processes and functions described herein, such as process 200 of FIG. 2 and process 600 of FIG. 6.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, device 305 includes one or more elements for interfacing with a vehicle and controlling lighting elements of the vehicle, such as a lighting panel 310. According to one embodiment, device 305 includes a voltage regulation circuit 320 configured with respect to a vehicle voltage supply 301 and ground 302. Voltage regulation circuit 320 is configured to provide a supply voltage to device 305 and its components.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the device 305 includes a transceiver 325 configured to couple to a vehicle audio bus (e.g., audio bus 130). The transceiver 325 is configured to interface with an input terminal 315 and an output terminal 316 to the vehicle audio bus. According to one embodiment, the transceiver 325 is an audio bus transceiver and can receive audio bus data generated by one or more sources in the vehicle. According to another embodiment, the transceiver 325 may be configured to transmit one or more signals to the vehicle's audio bus via the output terminal 316. The transceiver 325 is configured to transmit and receive audio data through multiple channels of the vehicle audio bus (e.g., audio bus 130) via the input terminal 315 and the output terminal 316. According to one embodiment, the transceiver 325 is configured to receive and transmit control data to communicate on and / or off requests, lighting presets, and diagnostic requests from an audio processing unit, such as the audio processing unit 110 of FIG. 1, to the controller 330. The transceiver 325 may communicate activity and diagnostic information from the controller 330 to one or more vehicle components, such as the audio processing unit 110 of FIG.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the device 305 may include a controller 330 for controlling the operation of the device 305 and directing one or more functions of the device 305. The controller 330 is configured to receive audio bus data from the transceiver 325 by way of a bidirectional link 345. The audio bus data received by the transceiver 325 may include one or more lighting control signals. In that way, an audio processing unit (e.g., audio processing unit 110) may directly provide control signals to the controller 330. In a particular embodiment, the controller 330 generates the lighting control signals using the audio bus data. The controller 330 may be a digital signal processor (DSP) configured to detect embedded data from one or more channels of the audio bus received on the input terminal 315. According to one embodiment, the controller 330 transmits the lighting control signals 350 to the switching circuit 335. 1~n The lighting control signal 350 is configured to output the lighting control signal 350. 1~n refers to a pulse width modulated control signal that includes data for red, blue, and green color spaces. According to one embodiment, the lighting control signal 350 1~n includes at least one set of color data and may include multiple sets of color data (e.g., three sets for red, green, and blue), such as nine channels of color data. 1~n may be configured based on ambient sound conditions, such as ambient sound playback and one or more ambient sound formats.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the lighting control signal 350 1~n provides pulse width modulated data that can be transmitted in an uncoded format to directly drive one or more lighting panels, such as lighting panel 310. In other embodiments, lighting control signal 350 1~n may be output in an encoding format based on the end customer (i.e., vehicle manufacturer format) and / or decoding capabilities of the lighting panel being used.

[0053] The switching circuit 335 receives the lighting control signal 350 generated by the controller 330. 1~n Receives a lighting switching signal 360 to the lighting panel 310. 1~n According to one embodiment, the lighting panel 310 represents one or more lighting elements. One or more of the brightness, color, activation, and power of the lighting elements of the lighting panel 310 are controlled by lighting switching signal 360. 1~n According to one embodiment, the lighting switching signal 360 1~n may instruct the lighting panel to output one or more lighting configurations associated with a pre-defined mood environment. 1~n may be associated with one or more modes, including but not limited to providing a light show for one or more of concert, nightclub, laid back, and cosmic modes. In one embodiment, the lighting control signal 350 1~n may be output by the controller 330 to a switching circuit 335 having voltage levels configured to drive one or more lighting panels, such as the lighting panel 310. 1~n The maximum current drawn from the output of the controller may be lower than the nominal current drawn by the lighting panel. 1~n is the output of the controller (lighting control signal 350 1~n ) may be expected to switch between appropriate voltages to handle the current requirements of the lighting panel 310.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the device 305 includes a transceiver 340 configured to interface with one or more lighting panels, including but not limited to the lighting panel 310. The transceiver 340 is configured to receive lighting control data from the controller 330. According to one embodiment, the transceiver 340 may be configured to operate as a transceiver for a lighting controller bus (e.g., data output) to enable the device 305 to interface with multiple lighting panels. In one embodiment, the transceiver 340 may be configured to output lighting control signals according to a control protocol (e.g., DMX, etc.). As such, the transceiver 340 may be configured to drive multiple linked lighting elements in a daisy-chain configuration in addition to or separate from an audio bus. As discussed below in FIG. 7, one or more lighting control units and / or lighting panels may be linked in a daisy-chain or connected configuration.

[0055] FIG. 4 depicts a graphical representation of a vehicle configuration according to one or more embodiments. According to one embodiment, vehicle 400 includes multiple lighting units, such as driver side lighting units 405-406, passenger side lighting units 407-408, forward lighting unit 410, and rear lighting unit 415. As shown in FIG. 4, each lighting unit includes multiple lighting elements (e.g., LEDs, light sources, etc.), such as lighting element 411. According to another embodiment, a lighting control unit (e.g., lighting control unit 115 of FIG. 1, device 305 of FIG. 3, etc.) may be configured to individually control each lighting element of the lighting units of vehicle 400. Lighting units 405-406, 407-408, 410, and 415 may be mounted in a speaker grill or other locations within the cabin of vehicle 400.

[0056] According to another embodiment, the operation of the lighting units of the vehicle 400 may be based on audio bus data associated with an area of ​​the vehicle. As an example, the audio bus data may direct sound output to only a section of the vehicle 400 (e.g., fade function forward or backward). In that way, the lighting control may include controlling lighting to only some of the lighting units, such as activating lighting units in the rear of the vehicle based on the vehicle environment to direct sound to the rear speakers. Alternatively or in combination, the color and light output of the lighting elements may be different or may reflect the audio equalization environment based on the audio bus data. As an example, based on the real-time environment to the vehicle head unit to adjust the bass, the lighting control unit of the vehicle 400 may change the color environment and output of one or more lighting elements to signal a change to the audio equalization. In that way, the lighting control is responsive to the user.

[0057] According to one embodiment, one or more of the lighting elements may be controlled to indicate a vehicle event. One or more lighting elements may be controlled for incoming communications, such as a telephone communication to a mobile device in the vehicle. In one embodiment, a vehicle event, such as an incoming telephone communication, may result in activation of the forward lighting unit 410. In that way, the forward lighting unit 410 may be activated to pulse, provide a different color than other lighting units, or provide a light indication to signal an incoming communication in an area of ​​the passenger cabin associated with a particular passenger.

[0058] According to another embodiment, the lighting elements of the vehicle 400 may be controlled by an audio bus to reflect non-voice and non-speaker events and vehicle conditions. In one exemplary embodiment, the audio bus may provide control signals on one or more channels to instruct the lighting elements to output a color based on the vehicle environment. As an example, the driver side lighting unit 405 may be configured to emit a first color (e.g., blue light) to signal a vehicle heating and cooling environment for the driver. Similarly, the passenger side lighting unit 407 may be configured to emit a second color (e.g., red light) to signal a vehicle heating and cooling environment for the driver. The color of the lighting elements may be controlled to signal a temperature environment. In addition, a third color may be output by one or more of the passenger side lighting units 407-408 and the rear lighting unit 415 to indicate a rear climate controlled environment. Other vehicle environments may be signaled by lighting elements that are not based on audio (e.g., sound) output using the audio bus, such as color changes or illumination on one side of the vehicle of lighting units 407-408 to signal nearby vehicles. Vehicle events may be associated with audio cues generated to provide warnings to the vehicle operator, such as blind spot detection, parking indicators, etc.

[0059] 5 depicts a graphical representation of a vehicle configuration according to one or more embodiments. According to one embodiment, a vehicle 500 includes a plurality of lighting units 505. 1~n and a passenger interface having a display unit 510. According to one embodiment, the lighting unit 505 1~n may be individually controlled. 1~n At least one of the color, activation, brightness, and output type (flash, color wave, etc.) of the lighting units 505 may be controlled in response to one or more vehicle events. 1~n may be grouped together and located in a vehicle location such as the vehicle console.

[0060] According to another embodiment, one or more lighting elements may be associated with vehicle speakers, such as speakers 515 and 520. FIG. 1 and a lighting unit 505. n According to one embodiment, a loudspeaker 520 having a lighting unit 505 is shown. 1~n may include a lighting control unit that interfaces with speakers 515 and 520. Display 510 may be associated with the head unit of the vehicle 500 or a display of an audio source. According to one embodiment, lighting unit 505 1~n may provide backlighting and / or mood lighting for the display 510.

[0061] According to one embodiment, one or more lighting units of the vehicle 500 may be configured to output a lighting configuration associated with a vehicle event. In an exemplary embodiment, the lighting units 505 of the vehicle 500 1~n One or more of the lighting units 505 may be configured to illuminate an emblem. For example, when the vehicle is turned on, a manufacturer's logo mounted on the speaker grill may be illuminated by the lighting unit 505. 1 and a speaker 520. 1 The color and subsequent fade of the lighting unit 505 may be selected based on brand / market strategies. 2 For example, the lighting unit of the vehicle 520 may be disposed in association with a vehicle storage element, such as a cup holder. One or more sensors in the vehicle storage area may be connected to a lighting unit, in this example lighting unit 505. 1 may report temperature (eg, the temperature in a cup holder) such that the LED can be illuminated in a color indicative of temperature, e.g., blue indicating cold, and red indicating hot.

[0062] FIG. 6 illustrates a process for lighting control, according to one or more embodiments. Process 600 may be employed to enable detection of a vehicle event and updating of a lighting control signal in response to the detected event. Process 600 may begin at block 605 with control of a lighting element, such as one or more lighting units of a vehicle. As discussed herein, control may include, but is not limited to, activation, performing a pre-set output display, and deactivation. Process 600 may include determining event detection at decision block 610. When an event is not detected (e.g., “NO” block from decision block 610), process 600 continues to control the lighting element at block 605. Process 600 may be configured to update the lighting control signal when an event is detected at block 615 (e.g., “YES” block from decision block 610). According to one embodiment, process 600 may generate a “welcome” and “goodbye” sequence in block 605 depending on the condition detected in block 610, such as outputting a “welcome” indication of the lighting elements when the driver enters the vehicle and outputting a “goodbye” indication of the lighting elements when the vehicle is controlled to an off state.

[0063] In one embodiment, the event detected in block 610 may relate to a change in an audio source presented by the head unit. In another embodiment, the event detected in block 610 may relate to a change in a lighting code by an end user to select a mode or mood (e.g., cosmic, nightclub, etc.). The event may also relate to a change in an audio track (e.g., stopping a track, searching for a track, etc.). In yet another embodiment, the event detected in block 610 may relate to a multimedia system diagnostic status, such as a setup, error detection, fault, or status indicator during operation for one or more of the head unit, amplifier, speaker, and vehicle unit. According to another embodiment, the event detected in block 610 may relate to a communication, such as an incoming phone call, a message notification (e.g., text message, email, etc.), etc.

[0064] In one embodiment, the event detected in block 610 may be related to a vehicle drive unit state, such as engine on or off, accessory mode on or off, etc. According to another embodiment, the event in block 610 may be related to vehicle detection of critical vehicle warnings (parking assistance, lane keeping assistance, etc.). According to another embodiment, the event in block 610 may be related to cabin temperature or cabin temperature environment.

[0065] According to another embodiment, the event detected in block 610 may be related to a lighting control unit diagnostic request, a lighting control software reflash request, and / or detection of a light panel fault. Ambient lighting conditions (e.g., daytime vs. nighttime) may also be related to the event detected in block 610.

[0066] 7 illustrates a lighting system configuration in accordance with one or more embodiments. FIG. 7 includes an audio source 705, an audio processing unit 710, a lighting information processing unit 715, and a lighting control unit 720. 1~n1. Audio source 705 and audio processing unit 710 may operate similarly to audio source 105 and audio processing unit 110 of FIG. 1. As such, audio source 705 may be coupled to audio processing unit 710 by an audio bus 725 that provides audio data. Lighting information processing unit 715 is coupled to audio processing unit 710 by an audio bus 730 that includes audio data and lighting data that may be related to control data for one or more lighting panels.

[0067] According to another embodiment, the processes and configurations described herein may be implemented such that the lighting control of unit 715 is based on audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle, such as audio source 105, or the output of the audio processing unit 710, and / or the lighting control unit 720. 1~n and one or more of the lighting panels, such as lighting panels 750 and 755. According to one embodiment, the lighting information processing unit 715 includes an audio bus transceiver (e.g., transceiver 325) and a lighting control unit 720. 1~n 7. The lighting control unit 720 is configured to output address-specific lighting schemes, shown as lighting data 735 and 740, to the 1~n Each of the lighting control units 720 may be configured to drive one or more lighting panels, such as lighting panels 750 and 755. Instead of outputting a pulse-width modulated output by the lighting information processing unit 715, the pulse-width modulated output for driving the lighting panels may be output by the lighting control unit 720. 1~n According to one embodiment, the lighting control unit 720 1~n The lighting control unit 720 does not include an audio bus transceiver, but is configured to drive the lighting panels. 1~n The lighting data 735 and 740 for may be generated and / or transmitted by the lighting information processing unit 715. According to one embodiment, the lighting control unit 720 1~n The lighting data 735 is sent to the lighting control unit 720 1 , and a lighting control unit 720 1Then the lighting control unit 720 n The lighting data is sent to the lighting control unit 720 based on one or more addressing schemes specified by the lighting information processing unit 715, which may be based on one or more protocols, such as the DMX protocol. 1~n and may be provided to lighting panels 750 and 755 .

[0068] While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the scope of the claimed embodiments.

Claims

1. 1. A method for lighting control by an audio bus lighting control device, the method comprising: receiving, by the lighting control device, audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle; generating, by a controller of the lighting control device, a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data; creating modified audio bus data by encoding said lighting control signals into said audio bus data; controlling, by a switching unit of the lighting control device, operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in the modified audio bus data; Including, The method, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving at least one channel of an audio signal on an audio bus of the vehicle, the audio signal being output to a speaker within the vehicle.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the lighting control signals comprises generating pulse width modulated output signals for each of red, green, and blue colors output to a lighting panel comprising the at least one lighting element.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein generating the lighting control signal comprises outputting control information for at least one color parameter for a lighting panel comprising the at least one lighting element.

4. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein generating the lighting control signal comprises selecting a preset lighting environment associated with one of a plurality of mood environments, the preset lighting environment being selected depending on the type of the source of the audio bus data.

5. 2. The method of claim 1 , wherein controlling the operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle comprises controlling at least one of a brightness, a color, a duration of illumination, and a rate of change of the brightness, color, and duration of illumination for a lighting panel comprising the at least one lighting element.

6. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein controlling the operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle comprises controlling a plurality of lighting panels in association with at least one predefined mood environment, the plurality of lighting panels comprising the at least one lighting element, each lighting panel being individually controlled.

7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising detecting a vehicle event with the lighting control device and updating operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in response to the vehicle event.

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the vehicle event is at least one of an incoming communication, a vehicle operating condition, a vehicle condition indicator, and a change in a source of audio bus data.

9. 1. An audio bus lighting control device comprising: An input unit; An output unit; a control device coupled to the input and the output, the control device comprising: Receiving audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle; generating a lighting control signal for at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the audio bus data; creating modified audio bus data by encoding said lighting control signals into said audio bus data; controlling operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in the modified audio bus data; is configured to run The device, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving at least one channel of an audio signal on an audio bus of the vehicle, the audio signal being output to a speaker within the vehicle.

10. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein generating the lighting control signals comprises generating pulse width modulated output signals for each of red, green, and blue colors output to a lighting panel comprising the at least one lighting element.

11. The device of claim 9 , wherein generating the lighting control signal comprises outputting control information for at least one color parameter for a lighting panel comprising the at least one lighting element.

12. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein generating the lighting control signal includes selecting a preset lighting environment associated with one of a plurality of mood environments, the preset lighting environment being selected depending on the type of the source of the audio bus data.

13. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein controlling the operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle includes controlling at least one of a brightness, a color, a duration of illumination, and a rate of change of the brightness, color, and duration of illumination for a lighting panel comprising the at least one lighting element.

14. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein controlling the operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle comprises controlling a plurality of lighting panels in association with at least one predefined mood environment, the plurality of lighting panels comprising the at least one lighting element, each lighting panel being individually controlled.

15. 10. The device of claim 9, further comprising detecting a vehicle event by the lighting control device and updating operation of the at least one lighting element of the vehicle based on the lighting control signal in response to the vehicle event, the vehicle event being at least one of a change in an incoming communication, a vehicle operating state, a vehicle state indicator, and a source of audio bus data.

16. at least one lighting unit; an audio bus lighting control device coupled to the lighting units, the audio bus lighting control device comprising: Receiving audio bus data generated by a source in the vehicle; generating lighting control signals for a plurality of lighting elements of the lighting unit in the vehicle based on the audio bus data, each lighting element being individually controlled; creating modified audio bus data by encoding said lighting control signals into said audio bus data; controlling operation of the at least one lighting unit of the vehicle based on the lighting control signals in the modified audio bus data; is configured to run The system, wherein receiving the audio bus data includes receiving at least one channel of an audio signal on an audio bus of the vehicle, the audio signal being output to a speaker within the vehicle.

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