Method and Apparatus for Controlling Sound in Vehicle according to Seat Posture

Abstract

A method and device for controlling in-vehicle sound according to seat position are disclosed. According to one aspect of the present invention, a sound control device and a method of operation are provided, comprising: a receiving unit for receiving seat position information for at least one seat in a vehicle; and a control unit for determining at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers in the vehicle to output sound based on the seat position information, and generating a control signal for controlling the sound output by the at least one speaker based on the seat position information.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and apparatus for controlling sound within a vehicle, specifically, a method and apparatus for determining a speaker within a vehicle according to a seat position and an audio mode, and controlling the sound of the determined speaker. Background Technology

[0002] The content described in this section merely provides background information regarding the present invention and does not constitute prior art.

[0003] A vehicle refers to a device capable of transporting people or goods to a destination while traveling on a road. Vehicles can move to various locations primarily by utilizing one or more wheels installed on their body.

[0004] Vehicles provide navigation, phone, audio, and radio functions. Recently, vehicles are equipped with various hardware and software to perform diverse and complex functions.

[0005] The features that drivers or passengers require from vehicles are becoming increasingly complex. For example, the driver may want voice guidance for navigation, while the passenger may want to listen to music. Additionally, if the driver makes a call via Bluetooth inside the vehicle, the passenger may want to be unable to hear the conversation for privacy reasons.

[0006] Therefore, research is currently being conducted on technology that separates sound output zones or sound reach zones to distinguish areas within a vehicle and ensure that sounds output into the vehicle interior can be heard only by occupants located in designated areas.

[0007] Meanwhile, active research is being conducted on autonomous vehicles that travel autonomously to a destination depending on the degree of driver intervention.

[0008] Because autonomous vehicles have little to no dependence on the driver, both the driver and passengers can act freely within the vehicle. Specifically, thanks to the autonomous driving capabilities, passengers can change the position and posture of their seats to create various internal layouts. Passengers can sit facing each other to hold a meeting. Additionally, they can sit facing opposite directions to perform individual tasks.

[0009] However, since conventional vehicles have fixed speaker positions and a limited number of speakers, there is a problem in that it is difficult to provide active audio functions that respond to changes in the seat. The problem to be solved

[0010] The main purpose of the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a sound control method and apparatus for determining a speaker to output sound according to a seat position and controlling the sound of the determined speaker.

[0011] Other embodiments of the present invention have one objective of providing a sound control method and apparatus for determining a speaker to output sound according to a seat posture and an audio mode, and for controlling the sound of the determined speaker. means of solving the problem

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, a sound control method for a vehicle-mounted device comprises: receiving seat position information for at least one seat in a vehicle; determining at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers in the vehicle to output sound based on the seat position information; and generating a control signal for controlling sound output by the at least one speaker based on the seat position information.

[0013] According to another aspect of the present embodiment, a sound control device is provided comprising: a receiving unit for receiving seat position information for at least one seat in a vehicle; and a control unit for determining at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers in the vehicle to output sound based on the seat position information, and generating a control signal for controlling the sound output by the at least one speaker based on the seat position information. Effects of the invention

[0014] As described above, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a speaker to output sound according to the seat position can be determined and the sound of the determined speaker can be controlled.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a speaker to output sound can be determined according to the seat posture and audio mode, and the sound of the determined speaker can be controlled.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, independent sound services can be provided to occupants in a vehicle according to seat position and audio mode. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0017] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a plurality of speakers and seats inside a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a seat posture according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a speaker placed on a sheet according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of an acoustic control system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of a speaker control system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 6a and FIGS. 6b are drawings illustrating an acoustic control method according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 7a and 7b are drawings illustrating an acoustic control method according to a seat position according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 8a and 8b are drawings illustrating a sound control method according to an audio mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 9a and 9b are drawings illustrating a sound control method according to a seat posture and audio mode according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a drawing additionally illustrating a seat posture according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an area in which sound from a speaker is output according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an acoustic control method according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0018] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to exemplary drawings. It should be noted that in assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions could obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0019] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the present invention. These terms are intended merely to distinguish the components from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by these terms. Throughout the specification, when a part is described as 'comprising' or 'equipped' with a certain component, unless specifically stated otherwise, this means that it does not exclude other components but may include additional components. Furthermore, terms such as 'part' or 'module' described in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a plurality of speakers and seats inside a vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Referring to FIG. 1, the vehicle (10) is equipped with a plurality of seats (101, 102, 103, 104) and a plurality of speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) inside.

[0022] In FIG. 1, the shape of the vehicle (10) is a passenger car according to one embodiment. In another embodiment of the present invention, the vehicle (10) may have various shapes such as a bus, truck, or train.

[0023] In FIG. 1, the positions and number of the plurality of speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) and the plurality of seats (101, 102, 103, 104) correspond to one embodiment. The plurality of speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) and the plurality of seats (101, 102, 103, 104) can be installed at any location inside the vehicle (10), and there is no limit to the number.

[0024] In FIG. 1, six speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) are shown inside the vehicle (10). Specifically, the first speaker (111) is provided on the side door of the first seat (101). The second speaker (112) is provided on the side door of the second seat (102). The third speaker (113) is provided on the side door of the third seat (103). The fourth speaker (114) is provided on the side door of the fourth seat (104). The fifth speaker (115) is provided at the front inside the vehicle (10). The sixth speaker (116) is provided at the rear inside the vehicle (10).

[0025] Multiple seats (101, 102, 103, 104) are seats on which passengers sit.

[0026] Multiple speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) are devices that output sound.

[0027] The sound control device of the vehicle (10) generates a sound control signal to be output through a plurality of speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116). For example, the sound control device can generate a music playback signal, a video playback signal, a voice call signal, a navigation guidance signal, and various warning signals. The plurality of speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) can output a sound signal inside the vehicle (10) based on the sound control signal.

[0028] Multiple speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116) can output sound by generating constructive or destructive interference with low-frequency acoustic signals and mid-high frequency acoustic signals inside the vehicle (10). That is, depending on the number and arrangement of the multiple speakers (111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116), sound can be output to only a part of the interior of the vehicle (10).

[0029] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a seat posture according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 2, a seat (20), a headrest (200), a backrest (202), a seat cushion (204), a seat height (210), a sliding position (212), a backrest angle (214), and a seat rotation angle (216) are shown.

[0031] The seat (20) includes a headrest (200), a backrest (202), and a seat cushion (204). The seat (20) can have various positions depending on the adjustment of the headrest (200), the backrest (202), and the seat cushion (204).

[0032] The position information of the seat (20) includes at least one of the seat height (210), sliding position (212), backrest angle (214), and seat rotation angle (216). The position information of the seat (20) may further include the position of the seat (20) inside the vehicle. The position of the seat (20) may be distinguished according to the identification information of the seat (20). For example, the position of the seat (20) may be distinguished as the driver's seat, passenger seat, the seat behind the driver's seat, etc.

[0033] The seat height (210) represents the height of the seat (20). The seat height (210) may refer to the vertical height from the floor of the vehicle.

[0034] The sliding position (212) indicates the horizontal movement of the seat (20). For example, the sliding position (212) may indicate a position with the front-rear direction of the vehicle as an axis. Additionally, the sliding position (212) may indicate a position with the left-right direction of the vehicle as an axis. The sliding position (212) of the seat (20) can be adjusted along a rail installed on the floor of the vehicle.

[0035] The backrest angle (214) represents the angle between the seat cushion (204) and the backrest (202). The backrest angle (214) may refer to the angle between the seat cushion (204) and the backrest (202) on a plane perpendicular to the floor of the vehicle. Specifically, the backrest angle (214) may be represented by detection information from a hall sensor provided in the seat (20).

[0036] The seat rotation angle (216) indicates the horizontal rotation of the seat (20). The seat (20) can rotate horizontally on the floor of the vehicle. The seat (20) can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The seat rotation angle (216) may be an angle measured relative to the front of the vehicle.

[0037] In addition, the posture information of the seat (20) may include the height of the backrest (202), the height of the headrest (200), the angle of the headrest (200), the front height of the seat cushion (204), or the rear height of the seat cushion (204).

[0038] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a speaker placed on a sheet according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 3, a headrest (200), a backrest (202), a headrest speaker (300), and a backrest speaker (310) are shown.

[0040] The headrest (200), backrest (202), headrest speaker (300), and backrest speaker (310) may be placed inside the seat. In FIG. 3, the location, number, and shape of the headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310) are an embodiment of the present invention. In other embodiments, the headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310) may have various locations, numbers, and shapes.

[0041] The headrest speaker (300) includes a right headrest speaker (301) and a left headrest speaker (302).

[0042] The headrest speaker (300) may be provided on the headrest (200) of the seat and may output sound to the driver or passenger seated in the seat. The headrest speaker (300) may be placed on each of the seats in the vehicle.

[0043] The headrest speaker (300) can be installed on the headrest (200) at a predetermined angle. Since the headrest speaker (300) is installed at an angle toward the ears of the passenger sitting on the seat, the passenger can effectively hear the sound output from the headrest speaker (300).

[0044] The backrest speaker (310) includes a right backrest speaker (311) and a left backrest speaker (312).

[0045] The backrest speaker (310) may be provided on the backrest (202) of the seat and may output sound to the driver or passenger seated in the seat. The backrest speaker (310) may be placed on each of the seats in the vehicle.

[0046] The backrest speaker (310) can be installed on the backrest (202) at a predetermined angle. Since the backrest speaker (310) is installed at an angle toward the body of the passenger sitting on the seat, the passenger can effectively listen to the sound output from the backrest speaker (310).

[0047] The headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310) can be used to acoustically separate the area where sound is output and the area where sound is not output for the interior of the vehicle. Additionally, the headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310) can be used to enhance the sound field separation effect for each seat. That is, the headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310) can be used to increase the acoustic contrast between the output area and the non-output area. For example, a user seated in a seat can easily hear sound from the headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310), while a user seated in another seat can have difficulty hearing sound from the headrest speaker (300) and backrest speaker (310).

[0048] FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of an acoustic control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 4, the vehicle (40) may include some or all of a receiver (400), a speaker (410), a storage unit (420), an integrated controller (430), a filter (440), a communication unit (450), and a microphone (460). The vehicle (40) may further include an amplifier (not shown) for the integrated controller (430) to control the speaker (410). Each component may be a device or logic mounted on the vehicle (40).

[0050] An acoustic control device according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a receiver (400) and an integrated controller (430). The acoustic control device may further include other configurations.

[0051] The receiver (400) receives seat position information for at least one seat in the vehicle (40). The receiver (400) may further receive audio modes from the user.

[0052] Here, seat posture information includes at least one of seat position, seat height, slide position, backrest angle, and seat rotation angle. The audio mode includes at least one of a basic mode, road noise cancellation mode, independent sound field mode, voice curtain mode, privacy call mode, NVH (Noise Vibration Harness) cancellation mode, and noise cancelling mode.

[0053] The receiver (400) may include at least one of a sheet information receiver (402) and an audio mode receiver (404).

[0054] The seat information receiving unit (402) receives seat posture information through a sensor mounted on the seat or a sensor mounted on the vehicle. The seat information receiving unit (402) can receive seat posture information for each seat in the vehicle (40).

[0055] The seat information receiving unit (402) can receive at least one of the seat height, sliding position, backrest angle, and seat rotation angle through a hall effect sensor mounted on the seat.

[0056] The Hall effect refers to the phenomenon in which a potential difference is generated within a conductor perpendicular to the direction of the current when a magnetic field is formed perpendicular to the direction of the current while the conductor is carrying current. Since the operation of a Hall effect sensor is obvious to a person skilled in the art, a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0057] In addition to the seat mounting sensor, the seat information receiving unit (402) may also receive seat posture information using sensors such as a camera, radar, lidar, and ultrasonic sensor mounted on the vehicle. That is, the seat information receiving unit (402) may receive at least one of the seat position, seat height, slide position, backrest angle, and seat rotation angle through the sensor mounted on the vehicle.

[0058] The audio mode receiver (404) receives an audio mode from a user through a user interface. The audio mode receiver (404) can receive an audio mode for each user of each seat. The user interface includes various interfaces such as a graphic interface, an audio interface, and a touch interface.

[0059] The audio mode may include at least one of a basic mode, a road noise removal mode, an independent sound field mode, a voice curtain mode, a privacy call mode, an NVH (Noise Vibration Harness) removal mode, and a noise cancelling mode.

[0060] The speaker (410) is a component that outputs sound. The speaker (410) outputs sound based on a sound control signal generated by the integrated controller (430).

[0061] The speaker (410) can be divided into a tweeter, squawker, woofer, and subwoofer depending on the frequency band. The tweeter outputs a high frequency band, the squawker outputs a mid frequency band, the woofer outputs a low frequency band, and the subwoofer outputs an ultra-low frequency band.

[0062] The speaker (410) may be classified into a standard type, a vibrating type, and a film type. A standard type speaker refers to a conventional speaker. A vibrating type speaker is a speaker designed to generate vibrations in the low frequency range. A film type speaker has the form of a thin film and is a speaker that outputs sound through the vibration of the film. In particular, the film type speaker has a small volume and can be mainly used in narrow spaces.

[0063] The speaker (410) may include at least one speaker. Referring to FIG. 4, the speaker (410) may include at least one of a door speaker (411), a roof speaker (412), a headrest speaker (413), a backrest speaker (414), a front speaker (415), and a rear speaker (416). Each speaker may output a fixed frequency band or a changing frequency band.

[0064] The door speaker (411), headrest speaker (413), backrest speaker (414), front speaker (415) and rear speaker (416) are as described in FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 3.

[0065] The roof speaker (412) is a speaker placed on the roof of the vehicle (40) so as to face the interior of the vehicle (40).

[0066] The roof speakers (412) can be arranged in a straight line, and the arranged straight line can have various angles relative to the front of the vehicle (40). In addition, the roof speakers (412) can be arranged in an intersecting arrangement of two straight lines.

[0067] The vehicle (40) can provide more audio channels than conventional vehicles through the roof speaker (412).

[0068] The storage unit (420) stores programs and data related to the sound control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] For example, the storage unit (420) may store a program for the integrated controller (430) to execute a sound control method. The storage unit (420) may store seat posture information and audio mode. The storage unit (420) may store information for determining the speaker (410) corresponding to at least one of the seat posture information and audio mode. The storage unit (420) may store the sound pressure level and frequency band of the speaker (410) corresponding to at least one of the seat posture information and audio mode.

[0070] The integrated controller (430) determines at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers (410) in the vehicle (40) to output sound based on seat posture information, and generates a control signal to control the sound output by at least one speaker based on seat posture information.

[0071] Here, the control signal includes at least one of a control signal for a sound pressure level and a control signal for a frequency band. Additionally, the control signal includes an acoustic signal to be output.

[0072] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated controller (430) may use pre-stored information to determine at least one speaker to output sound and to generate a control signal for at least one speaker.

[0073] The integrated controller (430) can determine a preset speaker corresponding to the seat posture information as at least one speaker to output sound. For example, the storage unit (420) can store the distance to the speaker (410) according to the seat posture information, or store information on which speaker to use depending on the distance. The integrated controller (430) can determine a speaker that is closer according to the seat posture information as at least one speaker to output sound.

[0074] The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal so that at least one speaker among the plurality of speakers (410) determined to output sound outputs a preset sound pressure level and frequency band corresponding to the seat posture information. To this end, the storage unit (420) can pre-store the sound pressure level and frequency band of at least one speaker according to the seat posture information.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the integrated controller (430) may use the distance between the seat and at least one speaker to determine at least one speaker to output sound and to generate a control signal for the determined speaker.

[0076] Specifically, to determine at least one speaker to output sound, the integrated controller (430) estimates the head position of a user seated on the seat based on seat posture information. The integrated controller (430) can determine at least one speaker based on the user's head position and the distance between the multiple speakers (410). The determined at least one speaker outputs sound according to a control signal from the integrated controller (430).

[0077] The integrated controller (430) can estimate the head position of a user seated on a seat based on seat posture information and generate a control signal based on the distance between the user's head position and at least one speaker. At this time, at least one of the plurality of speakers (410) may be a speaker determined in advance in correspondence with the seat posture information, or a speaker determined according to the distance to the user's head position.

[0078] The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal to control the sound pressure level of at least one speaker to be output as high as the distance from the user's head position of at least one speaker determined to output sound.

[0079] The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal that controls at least one speaker to output a lower frequency band as the distance from the user's head position of at least one speaker determined to output sound becomes closer.

[0080] The integrated controller (430) concentrates the output to the speaker that is close to the distance between the user's head position and at least one speaker, thereby allowing the user to receive vivid sound services.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an integrated controller (430) can determine at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers (410) in a vehicle (40) to output sound based on seat posture information and an audio mode. Additionally, the integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal to control the sound output by at least one speaker based on seat posture information and an audio mode. An example of the integrated controller (430) determining a speaker and generating a control signal based on seat posture information and an audio mode is illustrated in FIGS. 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, and 9b.

[0082] The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal that controls at least one speaker to output a wide frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases. For example, the integrated controller (430) can perform sound masking by controlling the headrest speaker closest to the user's head position to output a wide frequency band in a road noise removal mode. Sound masking refers to a technique that generates band noise, such as white noise, to prevent the user from perceiving the noise.

[0083] The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal based on seat posture information and audio mode to cause sound output from at least one speaker to be output to the user's head position.

[0084] Specifically, the integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal that causes reinforcement interference of the acoustic signal to occur at the user's head position. The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal that controls the acoustic signals output by each of at least one speaker so that the acoustic signals are output to only one area, rather than to all areas inside the vehicle (40), through reinforcement interference based on phase difference. For example, the integrated controller (430) can implement an independent sound field mode and an NVH (Noise Vibration Harness) removal mode through reinforcement interference.

[0085] The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal based on seat posture information and audio mode so that sound output from at least one speaker is output to the user's head position and not to an area excluding the user's head position.

[0086] Specifically, the integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal that causes constructive interference of the acoustic signal to occur at the user's head position and destructive interference to occur in an area excluding the user's head position. The integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal that prevents the acoustic signals output by each of at least one speaker from being output to only one area inside the vehicle (40) and not to other areas through constructive and destructive interference based on phase difference. For example, the integrated controller (430) can implement a voice curtain mode and a privacy call mode through constructive and destructive interference.

[0087] The integrated controller (430) can provide desired sound services for each seat or passenger through beam forming.

[0088] Information regarding reinforcing interference and destructive interference caused by a combination of acoustic signals output by each of the multiple speakers (410) can be pre-set and stored in the storage unit (420).

[0089] In addition, the integrated controller (430) can generate a control signal to control the sound output by at least one speaker based on the user's head position, the distance between at least one speaker, and the audio mode.

[0090] The filter (440) can filter the acoustic signal output by each of the multiple speakers (410).

[0091] According to the reinforcement interference control signal and the cancellation interference control signal generated by the integrated controller (430), the acoustic signal output by each of at least one speaker may cause reinforcement interference or cancellation interference. However, the control signal generated by the integrated controller (430) may be filtered into a preset form through the filter (440), thereby causing each speaker to have the effect of causing reinforcement interference or cancellation interference.

[0092] The filter (440) can be implemented as an algorithm in the form of a transfer function, and by removing or passing a specific frequency band for the acoustic control signal generated by the integrated controller (430), it can cancel out the acoustic signal output from at least one speaker from being output only to a specific region or to another region.

[0093] The acoustic output control signal generated by the integrated controller (430) passes through a filter (440) so that a specific frequency band is removed or passed, thereby allowing the acoustic signal to be output only to a specific area through at least one speaker. The filter (440) can optimize the signal generated by the integrated controller (430) so that the acoustic signal output from at least one speaker is effectively transmitted to a specific area.

[0094] The communication unit (450) communicates with an external device of the vehicle (40).

[0095] The communication unit (450) can communicate with the user's terminal or infrastructure. For example, the communication unit (450) can receive audio data played on the user's terminal from the terminal, and the speaker (410) of the vehicle (40) can output the audio data received through the communication unit (450). In addition, the communication unit (450) can receive call content received by the user terminal from the base station through the terminal.

[0096] The microphone (460) receives voice within the vehicle (40). The microphone (460) can implement the audio interface of the vehicle (40).

[0097] The microphone (460) receives the user's voice, thereby enabling the integrated controller (430) to set the audio mode.

[0098] The microphone (460) can receive audio within the vehicle (40). The integrated controller (430) can implement an NVH removal mode or a noise canceling mode through the audio received by the microphone (460). The integrated controller (430) can output band noise within the vehicle (40) through the speaker (410) so that the occupant cannot perceive the noise. Additionally, the integrated controller (430) can cancel out the noise by outputting sound opposite to the noise through the speaker (410). Furthermore, the integrated controller (430) can feedback control the audio and sound signals received by the microphone (460). That is, the integrated controller (430) can appropriately adjust the audio environment within the vehicle (40) and the sound to be output through the speaker (410).

[0099] FIG. 5 is a configuration diagram of a speaker control system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 5, an integrated controller (430), an amplifier (50), and a speaker (410) are shown.

[0101] The amplifier (50) includes a micro control unit (502, Micro Control Unit; MCU), a digital signal processor (504, Digital Signal Processor; DSP), a flash memory (510), a DDR memory (512, Double Data Rate memory), an EEPROM (514, Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), a first amplifier (522), a second amplifier (524), and an Nth amplifier (526).

[0102] The speaker (410) includes a plurality of speakers (412, 413, 415). The MCU (502) and DSP (504) may be integrated into the amplifier control unit (500). The first amplifier (522), the second amplifier (524), and the Nth amplifier (526) may be collectively referred to as the power amplifier (520). Meanwhile, the number of amplifiers can be adjusted in various ways.

[0103] The integrated controller (430) outputs sound to the user using the amplifier (50) and the speaker (410).

[0104] The amplifier (50) is a device that amplifies the sound control signal received from the integrated controller (430) and transmits it to the speaker (410). The speaker (410) outputs sound according to the amplified sound control signal.

[0105] The amplifier (50) can perform the function of amplifying the sound source signal as well as adjusting the frequency using the MCU (502) and DSP (504).

[0106] The MCU (502) controls the overall operation of the amplifier (50).

[0107] DSP (504) refers to a data processing processor that converts analog signal information into digital signals represented by 0s and 1s and enables processing by mathematical operations.

[0108] The amplifier control unit (500) can perform filtering, amplification, noise removal, signal generation, signal detection, and signal feature detection of a specific signal. In addition, the amplifier control unit (500) can control equalizer adjustment, audio mux, volume control, voice recognition, voice memo, and DTS (Digital Theater System) functions.

[0109] The power amplifier (520) amplifies the control signal of the integrated controller (430) under the control of the amplifier control unit (500). The power amplifier (520) can be implemented as a power IC (Integrated Circuit). The power amplifier (520) can have one audio channel per amplifier.

[0110] Flash memory (510), DDR memory (512), and EEPROM (514) store information necessary for the operation of the amplifier control unit (500).

[0111] The amplifier (50) can adjust the control signal of the integrated controller (430) so that the integrated controller (430) can control the sound of the speaker (410) according to the seat posture information and audio mode.

[0112] FIGS. 6a and FIGS. 6b are drawings illustrating an acoustic control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 6a, a plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607), a headrest speaker (610), a backrest speaker (620), and a user's head position (630) are shown.

[0114] A plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607) include a first loop speaker (601), a second loop speaker (602), a third loop speaker (603), a fourth loop speaker (604), a fifth loop speaker (605), a sixth loop speaker (606), and a seventh loop speaker (607).

[0115] The headrest speaker (610) may include a right headrest speaker (611) and a left headrest speaker (612).

[0116] The backrest speaker (620) may include a right backrest speaker (622) and a left backrest speaker (622).

[0117] The number and location of the speakers in FIG. 6a correspond to one embodiment, and the number and location of the speakers may differ in other embodiments.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 6b, the sound pressure and frequency of a plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607) according to the seat posture information shown in FIG. 6a are illustrated.

[0119] Referring to FIGS. 6a and 6b, an acoustic control device (not shown) receives seat posture information for a seat in a vehicle.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the acoustic control device determines at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers to output sound based on seat posture information. In FIG. 6a, the seat has a posture facing forward of the vehicle. Based on the seat posture information, the acoustic control device can select a second loop speaker (602), a third loop speaker (603), a fourth loop speaker (604), a fifth loop speaker (605), a sixth loop speaker (606), and a seventh loop speaker (607) among a plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607). Additionally, the acoustic control device can select a backrest speaker (620) based on the seat posture information.

[0121] In one embodiment, the selected speakers may be pre-set speakers corresponding to seat position information. When the seat position is facing forward of the vehicle and the backrest is perpendicular to the floor, the sound control device may determine the second loop speaker (602), the third loop speaker (603), the fourth loop speaker (604), the fifth loop speaker (605), the sixth loop speaker (606), and the seventh loop speaker (607) and the backrest speaker (620) as output speakers according to pre-stored information.

[0122] In another embodiment, the sound control device may estimate the user's head position (630) and select a speaker to output sound based on the distance between the user's head position (630) and the speakers. The sound control device may determine the second loop speaker (602), the third loop speaker (603), the fourth loop speaker (604), the fifth loop speaker (605), the sixth loop speaker (606), and the seventh loop speaker (607) and the backrest speaker (620) that are close to the user's head position (630) as output speakers.

[0123] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the acoustic control device can generate a control signal for controlling the sound pressure level and frequency band output by the speaker based on seat posture information.

[0124] In one embodiment, the sound control device can set a pre-stored sound pressure level and frequency band for each speaker in correspondence with seat posture information. In another embodiment, the sound control device can set a sound pressure level and frequency band for each speaker based on the distance between the user's head position (630) and the speaker.

[0125] The sound control device can set the sound pressure level of the fourth loop speaker (604), the fifth loop speaker (605), and the backrest speaker (620) that are close to the user's head position (630) among the plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607) to a high level. On the other hand, the sound control device can set the sound pressure level of the second loop speaker, the third loop speaker (603), the sixth loop speaker (606), and the seventh loop speaker (607) that are relatively far from the user's head position (630) to a low level.

[0126] The acoustic control device can control the fourth loop speaker (604) and the fifth loop speaker (605), which are close to the user's head position (630), among the plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607), to output an intermediate frequency band. The acoustic control device can control the backrest speaker (620) to output a low frequency band. The backrest speaker (620) acts as a woofer speaker. On the other hand, the acoustic control device can control the second loop speaker, the third loop speaker (603), the sixth loop speaker (606), and the seventh loop speaker (607), which are relatively far from the user's head position (630), to output a high frequency band.

[0127] FIGS. 7a and 7b are drawings illustrating an acoustic control method according to a seat position according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 7a and 7b, the position of the seat has changed, unlike FIGS. 6a and 6b. The seat faces forward of the vehicle, but the backrest is reclined backward. An acoustic control device (not shown) receives information regarding the changed seat position of the seat in the vehicle.

[0129] The sound control device can use pre-stored information corresponding to the seat posture information. However, the sound control device below is described based on an embodiment that uses the user's head position (630).

[0130] Unlike FIGS. 6a and 6b, in FIG. 7a, the acoustic control device can determine the sixth loop speaker (606) and the seventh loop speaker (607), the headrest speaker (610), and the backrest speaker (620) located near the user's head position (630) as output speakers.

[0131] In FIG. 7b, the acoustic control device can set the sound pressure level of the backrest speaker (620) that is close to the user's head position (630) among the plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607) to a high level. On the other hand, the acoustic control device can set the sound pressure level of the sixth loop speaker (606) and the seventh loop speaker (607) that are relatively far from the user's head position (630) to a low level.

[0132] The acoustic control device can control the backrest speaker (620), which is close to the user's head position (630) among the plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607), to output a low frequency band. On the other hand, the acoustic control device can control the sixth loop speaker (606) and the seventh loop speaker (607), which are relatively far from the user's head position (630), to output an intermediate frequency band and a high frequency band.

[0133] Referring to FIGS. 6a, 6b, 7a, and 7b, the acoustic control device determines a speaker to output sound based on seat posture information and can control the sound pressure level and frequency band of the speaker. As a result, even if the seat posture changes in various ways within an autonomous vehicle, the acoustic control device can provide customized audio to the user.

[0134] FIGS. 8a and 8b are drawings illustrating a sound control method according to an audio mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] The acoustic control device (not shown) receives not only seat posture information for the seats in the vehicle but also the audio mode.

[0136] The sound control device determines at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers to output sound based on seat posture information and audio mode.

[0137] Specifically, the sound control device can determine at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers to output sound based on the user's head position (630), the distance between the speakers, and the audio mode.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 6a and FIG. 8b, the sound control device can determine the second loop speaker (602), the third loop speaker (603), the fourth loop speaker (604), the fifth loop speaker (605), the sixth loop speaker (606), and the seventh loop speaker (607) among the plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607) as speakers to output sound by considering seat posture information when the audio mode is in the basic mode.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the sound control device receives a road noise removal mode from the user and can change the speaker to output sound according to the road noise removal mode. Specifically, the sound control device can additionally determine the headrest speaker (610) as the speaker to output sound according to the road noise removal mode, unlike the basic mode.

[0140] After determining the speaker, the acoustic control device can control the sound pressure level and frequency band of the speaker based on seat posture information and audio mode.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 8b, the acoustic control device controls the backrest speaker (620) to output a low frequency band in the basic mode. Subsequently, when the acoustic control device receives a road noise removal mode, it may change the backrest speaker (620) to output a mid-frequency band. Furthermore, the acoustic control device may set the sound pressure level of the headrest speaker (610) high in the road noise removal mode and control it to output a wide frequency band. As a result, the headrest speaker (610) can sound mask the surrounding noise by generating a band small across the entire frequency band.

[0142] Meanwhile, in one embodiment, when changing the audio mode, the sound control device determines the speaker that is closest to the user's head position (630) as the output speaker and can generate a control signal that causes the determined speaker to output a high sound pressure level and a low frequency band.

[0143] In addition, the sound control device can receive an independent sound field mode from the user. Depending on the independent sound field mode, the sound control device can control the sound pressure level, frequency band, and phase of the speakers to output sound only at the user's head position (630).

[0144] FIGS. 9a and 9b are drawings illustrating a sound control method according to a seat posture and audio mode according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 7a and FIG. 9b, when the audio mode is in the basic mode, the sound control device can determine the sixth loop speaker (606) and the seventh loop speaker (607), the headrest speaker (610), and the backrest speaker (620) among the plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607) as speakers to output sound by considering seat posture information.

[0146] Referring to FIGS. 9a and 9b, the acoustic control device may not change the speaker to output sound even if it receives a road noise removal mode from the user.

[0147] However, the sound control device can control the sound pressure level and frequency band of the speaker based on seat posture information and audio mode.

[0148] Referring to FIG. 9b, the acoustic control device controls the backrest speaker (620) to output a low-frequency band in the basic mode. Additionally, the acoustic control device controls the headrest speaker (610) to output a mid-frequency band and a high-frequency band in the basic mode. Subsequently, when the acoustic control device receives a road noise removal mode, it can control the headrest speaker (610) and the backrest speaker (620) to output a full frequency band. Furthermore, the sound pressure level of the acoustic control device headrest speaker (610) can be increased. In addition, the acoustic control device may further utilize a fourth loop speaker (604) and a fifth loop speaker (605).

[0149] FIG. 10 is a drawing additionally illustrating a seat posture according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0150] Referring to FIG. 10, a seat position according to another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The seat faces the rear of the vehicle.

[0151] The sound control device can determine which speaker to output sound among a plurality of loop speakers (601, 602, 603, 604, 605, 606, 607), a headrest speaker (610), and a backrest speaker (620) based on seat posture information and audio mode.

[0152] The sound control device can adjust the sound pressure level and frequency band of the speaker to output sound based on seat posture information and audio mode.

[0153] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating an area in which sound from a speaker is output according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 11, the driver's seat (1100), the driver's head position (1102), the rear seat (1110), and the passenger's head position (1104) are shown.

[0155] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sound control device can generate a control signal based on seat posture information and an audio mode to cause sound output from at least one speaker in the vehicle to be output to the user's head position.

[0156] The sound control device can generate a control signal that causes sound output from at least one speaker to be output to the driver's head position (1102). The at least one speaker outputs sound to the driver's head position (1102) according to reinforcing interference generated based on the generated control signal.

[0157] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sound control device can generate a control signal based on seat posture information and an audio mode, such that sound output from at least one speaker in the vehicle is output to the user's head position and is not output to an area excluding the user's head position.

[0158] The sound control device can generate a control signal that prevents sound output from at least one speaker from being output to the driver's head position (1102) and not to the passenger's head position (1104). At least one speaker outputs sound to the driver's head position (1102) according to constructive interference generated based on the generated control signal. Additionally, at least one speaker outputs sound to the passenger's head position (1104) according to destructive interference generated based on the generated control signal. The passenger does not perceive sound due to destructive interference.

[0159] In this way, the acoustic control device can implement independent sound field modes, voice curtain modes, privacy call modes, etc. by utilizing constructive and destructive interference. The acoustic control device can further utilize beamforming technology.

[0160] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an acoustic control method according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 12, the acoustic control device receives seat position information for at least one seat in the vehicle (S1200).

[0162] The acoustic control device can receive seat posture information using sensors mounted on the vehicle or sensors mounted on the seat.

[0163] Seat posture information includes at least one of seat position, seat height, slide position, backrest angle, and seat rotation angle.

[0164] The sound control device receives an audio mode from the user through the user interface (S1202).

[0165] Audio mode refers to any one of the following: basic mode, road noise cancellation mode, independent sound field mode, voice curtain mode, privacy call mode, NVH (Noise Vibration Harness) cancellation mode, and noise cancelling mode.

[0166] The sound control device determines at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers in the vehicle to output sound based on at least one of seat position information and audio mode (S1204).

[0167] Here, the plurality of speakers includes at least one of a door speaker, a roof speaker, a headrest speaker, a backrest speaker, a front speaker, and a rear speaker.

[0168] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the sound control device can determine a preset speaker corresponding to at least one of seat posture information and an audio mode.

[0169] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the acoustic control device may estimate the head position of a user seated on at least one seat based on seat posture information, and determine at least one speaker based on the distance between the user's head position and a plurality of speakers. The acoustic control device may further consider an audio mode when determining at least one speaker to output sound.

[0170] The sound control device generates a control signal to control the sound output by at least one speaker (S1206).

[0171] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the acoustic control device can generate a control signal such that at least one speaker outputs a preset sound pressure level and frequency band corresponding to at least one of seat posture information and an audio mode.

[0172] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the acoustic control device may generate a control signal based on the distance between the user's head position and at least one speaker. The acoustic control device may further consider an audio mode when generating the acoustic control signal.

[0173] The acoustic control device can generate a control signal that controls at least one speaker to output a higher sound pressure level as the distance from the user's head position increases.

[0174] The acoustic control device can generate a control signal that controls at least one speaker to output a lower frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases.

[0175] The acoustic control device may also generate a control signal that controls at least one speaker to output a wider frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases.

[0176] The sound control device can generate a control signal based on seat posture information and audio mode to cause sound output from at least one speaker to be output to the user's head position.

[0177] The sound control device generates a control signal based on seat posture information and an audio mode, which prevents sound output from at least one speaker from being output to the user's head position and not to an area excluding the user's head position.

[0178] Although FIG. 12 describes the sequential execution of processes S1200 to S1206, this is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of one embodiment of the present invention. In other words, a person skilled in the art to which one embodiment of the present invention belongs may modify and adapt the process in various ways, such as changing the order described in FIG. 12 or executing one or more of processes S1200 to S1206 in parallel, without departing from the essential characteristics of one embodiment of the present invention; therefore, FIG. 12 is not limited to a chronological order.

[0179] Meanwhile, the processes illustrated in FIG. 12 can be implemented as computer-readable code on a computer-readable recording medium. A computer-readable recording medium includes all types of recording devices in which data that can be read by a computer system is stored. That is, such a computer-readable recording medium includes non-transitory media such as ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device. In addition, the computer-readable recording medium can be distributed across networked computer systems, allowing computer-readable code to be stored and executed in a distributed manner.

[0180] Additionally, the components of the present invention may utilize integrated circuit structures such as memory, processors, logic circuits, look-up tables, etc. Such integrated circuit structures execute each of the functions described herein through the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Furthermore, the components of the present invention may be specifically implemented by a part of a program or code that includes one or more executable instructions for performing specific logic functions and is executed by one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Additionally, the components of the present invention may include or be implemented by a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, etc., that perform each of the respective functions. Furthermore, the components of the present invention may store instructions executed by one or more processors in one or more memories.

[0181] The above description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present embodiment, and a person skilled in the art to which the present embodiment belongs would be able to make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present embodiment. Accordingly, the present embodiments are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of the present embodiment, and the scope of the technical concept of the present embodiment is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present embodiment shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present embodiment. Explanation of the symbols

[0182] 400: Receiver 410: Speaker 420: Storage unit 430: Integrated controller 440: Filter 450: Communication section 460: Microphone

Claims

Claim 1 A method for controlling sound in a vehicle-mounted device, comprising: receiving seat posture information for at least one seat in a vehicle; determining at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers in the vehicle to output sound based on the seat posture information; and generating a control signal for controlling sound output by the at least one speaker based on the seat posture information, wherein the process of determining the at least one speaker includes: receiving an audio mode from a user through a user interface; and determining the at least one speaker based on the seat posture information and the audio mode, wherein the process of generating the control signal includes generating a control signal based on the seat posture information and the audio mode such that sound output from the at least one speaker is output to the user's head position and not to an area excluding the user's head position. Claim 2 In claim 1, the process of determining at least one speaker includes the process of determining a preset speaker corresponding to the seat posture information. Claim 3 In claim 1, the process of generating the control signal comprises a process of generating a control signal such that the at least one speaker outputs a preset sound pressure level and frequency band corresponding to the seat posture information. Claim 4 A sound control method according to claim 1, wherein the process of determining the at least one speaker comprises: a process of estimating the head position of a user seated on the at least one seat based on the seat posture information; and a process of determining the at least one speaker based on the distance between the user's head position and the plurality of speakers. Claim 5 In claim 1, the process of generating the control signal comprises: a process of estimating the head position of a user seated on at least one seat based on the seat posture information; and a process of generating the control signal based on the distance between the user's head position and at least one speaker. Claim 6 In claim 5, the process of generating the control signal comprises generating a control signal that controls the sound pressure level to be higher as the distance from the user's head position to at least one speaker increases. Claim 7 In claim 5, the process of generating the control signal comprises generating a control signal that controls the at least one speaker to output a lower frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases. Claim 8 delete Claim 9 In claim 1, the process of generating the control signal comprises generating a control signal that controls the at least one speaker to output a wider frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases. Claim 10 A sound control method according to claim 1, wherein the process of generating the control signal comprises the process of generating a control signal that causes sound output from at least one speaker to be output to the head position of the user based on the seat posture information and the audio mode. Claim 11 delete Claim 12 A sound control device comprising: a receiver that receives seat posture information for at least one seat in a vehicle and an audio mode from a user through a user interface; and a control unit that determines at least one speaker among a plurality of speakers in the vehicle to output sound based on the seat posture information, and generates a control signal for controlling the sound output by the at least one speaker based on the seat posture information, wherein the control unit determines the at least one speaker based on the seat posture information and the audio mode, and the control unit generates a control signal based on the seat posture information and the audio mode such that the sound output from the at least one speaker is output to the user's head position and is not output to an area excluding the user's head position. Claim 13 In paragraph 12, the control unit is an acoustic control device that determines a preset speaker corresponding to the seat posture information. Claim 14 In claim 12, the control unit is an acoustic control device that generates a control signal such that the at least one speaker outputs a preset sound pressure level and frequency band corresponding to the seat posture information. Claim 15 In claim 12, the control unit is an acoustic control device that estimates the head position of a user seated on the at least one seat based on the seat posture information, and determines the at least one speaker based on the distance between the user's head position and the plurality of speakers. Claim 16 In claim 12, the control unit is an acoustic control device that estimates the head position of a user seated on at least one seat based on the seat posture information and generates the control signal based on the distance between the user's head position and the at least one speaker. Claim 17 In claim 16, the control unit is an acoustic control device that generates a control signal to control the at least one speaker to output a higher sound pressure level as the distance from the user's head position increases. Claim 18 In claim 16, the control unit is an acoustic control device that generates a control signal to control the at least one speaker to output a lower frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases. Claim 19 delete Claim 20 In claim 12, the control unit is an acoustic control device that generates a control signal to control the at least one speaker to output a wider frequency band as the distance from the user's head position increases. Claim 21 In claim 12, the control unit is an acoustic control device that generates a control signal to cause sound output from at least one speaker to be output to the user's head position based on the seat posture information and the audio mode. Claim 22 delete

Images