Multimedia assembly comprising a multimedia device usable independently of a vehicle and an interior arrangement of a vehicle, and associated vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a multimedia assembly comprising a multimedia device (1) and an interior arrangement of a vehicle, the interior arrangement comprising at least one docking area and an audio device comprising a passenger compartment speaker, the multimedia device (1) comprising: - a wireless communication unit for communicating with an external communication device, preferably a mobile external communication device, - an audio output unit comprising a speaker, - a processing unit, - an amplification unit (12) comprising an input and a first output connected to the audio output unit, - a power management unit (15) and an internal electrical storage unit, characterised in that the amplification unit (12) of the multimedia device (1) further comprises a second output configured to be connectable to the passenger compartment speaker of the audio device and to transmit to the passenger compartment speaker of the audio device a second amplified output audio signal from the processed audio source signal, and the passenger compartment speaker of the audio device is configured to be connectable to the second output of the amplification unit (12) of the multimedia device (1) in the docking area in the connected position in order to receive the second amplified audio signal.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title of the invention: Multimedia system comprising a multimedia device usable independently of a vehicle and an interior layout of a vehicle and associated vehicle

[0003] The invention relates to the field of multimedia systems comprising a multimedia device usable independently of a vehicle and an interior layout of a vehicle and the field of vehicles.

[0004] More specifically, the present invention relates to the reproduction of music and / or sound in mobility and in vehicles.

[0005] Modern vehicles are commonly equipped with onboard multimedia systems, including a central system comprising a radio and / or Bluetooth and / or USB sound source, a screen, an amplifier, and a set of speakers integrated into the vehicle.

[0006] In addition, there are portable and self-contained speakers, powered by batteries, that can play audio sources such as Bluetooth streaming and / or web radios and / or music streaming via a digital distribution platform.

[0007] There are solutions that allow you to connect a Bluetooth speaker to the vehicle and thus make it an additional speaker, as is the case in the following publications.

[0008] Document KR1020190079867 discloses an audio device using a detachable Bluetooth speaker to enhance the acoustic effect of a car audio system by adding the detachable Bluetooth speaker and utilizing a center speaker channel. The detachable Bluetooth speaker is connected to the head unit and can be used outdoors as a portable speaker.

[0009] This document specifically concerns an audio device using a detachable Bluetooth speaker that can be attached and detached inside a vehicle. This device includes a detachable Bluetooth speaker, a speaker connection unit, and a main unit, which is the vehicle's audio system. The main unit is configured to charge the Bluetooth speaker when it is connected, output sound through the center speaker channel, and transmit the sound emitted by the Bluetooth speaker to the outside. The detachable Bluetooth speaker includes a connection unit, a power supply unit, and a sound processing unit. The connection unit is characterized by a charging terminal, a grounding terminal, and two speaker terminals for sound input. The power supply unit charges the speaker, provides power to a drive unit, and includes a power switch.The sound processing unit receives the drive power, processes the sound applied by the connection unit, and outputs the processed sound to the speaker. The detachable Bluetooth speaker also includes a Bluetooth module that establishes a connection with an external device when power is supplied via the power switch. It receives a music signal from the external device and transmits it to the sound processing unit, which processes the music signal and sends it to the speaker.

[0010] The control method for this audio device involves activating the head unit's center speaker channel when the Bluetooth speaker is mounted on the vehicle's speaker connection unit. The head unit's charging power is then supplied to the Bluetooth speaker, and audio is transferred to the Bluetooth speaker via the center speaker channel. The control method also includes activating the Bluetooth module when the Bluetooth speaker's power switch is turned on. When a connection with an external device is established via the Bluetooth module, the speaker receives a music signal transmitted by the external device and forwards it to the sound processing unit, which then outputs it through the speaker.

[0011] Document CN206894867 discloses a wireless Bluetooth car speaker that addresses several issues related to streaming music from an external device in a vehicle. The Bluetooth speaker is seamlessly integrated into the product, thus addressing both the challenge of long-term external music streaming and the production of high-quality sound. To achieve this, the utility model features a technical design comprising a wireless Bluetooth speaker enclosure and a car charging unit. The charging unit includes a conversion and output circuit for recharging the speaker from the vehicle's battery. It also features multiple USB charging input ports. The Bluetooth speaker unit includes an automatic conversion module, which is connected to an automotive storage battery.This module is connected to a wireless Bluetooth module and an audio amplifier module, which contains a player for streaming music. The wireless Bluetooth module receives audio information from the external device and transmits it to the amplifier module.

[0012] The Bluetooth speaker enclosure and charging unit are integrated onto a single motherboard. Overcurrent and overheat protection devices are also included in the charging unit to ensure the safety of the charging process.

[0013] However, all the systems offered only serve to add an additional speaker to a vehicle that already has an audio system.

[0014] Document US11820295B2 and document EP3860143A2 also describe the possibility of adding an additional removable speaker in the vehicle.

[0015] Furthermore, and generally speaking, integrated multimedia systems in a vehicle are expensive.

[0016] Today, some vehicles already offer a simplified multimedia system that provides a Bluetooth amplifier without a screen and speakers integrated into the vehicle's cabin. However, this type of multimedia system, although simplified, remains expensive.

[0017] The present invention aims to overcome at least one of these drawbacks and aims to provide a solution for music and / or sound reproduction in mobility and in vehicles that makes it possible to do without a complete multimedia system integrated into the vehicle.

[0018] To this end, the invention relates to a multimedia system comprising at least one multimedia device usable independently of a vehicle and an interior layout of a vehicle.

[0019] the interior layout of a vehicle including:

[0020] - at least one reception area configured to accommodate the multimedia device in at least one connected position, in a removable manner.

[0021] - an audio system including at least one interior speaker, the multimedia device connectable to at least one reception area including at least:

[0022] - a wireless communication unit configured to communicate with an external communication device, preferably mobile,

[0023] - an audio playback unit comprising at least one speaker separate from at least one cabin speaker,

[0024] - a processing unit electrically connected at least to the wireless communication unit and configured to provide at least one processed audio signal from an audio source signal preferably received via the wireless communication unit,

[0025] - an amplification unit comprising an input electrically connected to the processing unit and comprising a first output electrically connected at least to the audio playback unit to transmit to at least one loudspeaker at least a first amplified audio output signal from the processed audio signal received by the input,

[0026] - a power management unit and an internal self-contained electrical storage unit, the power management unit being configured to be electrically connected to at least one power supply including the internal electrical storage unit and, where applicable, an external power supply, and being electrically connected at least to the processing unit, the amplification unit and the wireless communication unit for the management of their power supply from the power supply,

[0027] The multimedia system is characterized by the following:

[0028] - the multimedia device's amplification unit further includes at least one second output configured to be connectable to at least one in-car speaker of the audio device and to transmit to at least one in-car speaker of the audio device at least one second amplified audio output signal from the processed audio source signal,

[0029] - and at least one cabin speaker of the audio device is configured to be connectable to at least one second output of the multimedia device's amplification unit in the docking area in the connected position to receive said second amplified audio signal.

[0030] The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising a multimedia system characterized in that the multimedia system is according to the invention.

[0031] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to several preferred embodiments, given by way of non-limiting examples, and explained with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:

[0032] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 represents a partial schematic view of a multimedia assembly according to the invention,

[0033] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 represents a partial schematic view of a multimedia assembly according to the invention,

[0034] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 represents a partial schematic view of the multimedia device in the connected position and its possible connections with the vehicle according to the invention,

[0035] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 represents a partial schematic view of an example of an electrical connection between the multimedia device and the docking area in the connected position according to the invention,

[0036] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 represents a partial schematic view of another example of an electrical connection between the multimedia device and the docking area in the connected position according to the invention,

[0037] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 represents a schematic view of an example of the multimedia device and its possible connection links with the vehicle and external communication device according to the invention,

[0038] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 represents a partial schematic view of the interconnections in the multimedia set between the multimedia device in the connected position and the home area.

[0039] A multimedia system includes at least one multimedia device 1 usable independently of a vehicle 2 and an interior arrangement 3 of a vehicle 2, the interior arrangement 3 of a vehicle 2 comprising: - at least one reception area 4 configured at least to receive in a removable manner in at least one connected position P1 the multimedia device 1,

[0040] - an audio system 5 comprising at least one cabin speaker 6, the multimedia device 1 connectable to at least one reception area 4 comprising at least:

[0041] - a wireless communication unit 7 configured to communicate with an external communication device 8, preferably mobile,

[0042] - an audio playback unit 9 comprising at least one speaker 10 separate from at least one cabin speaker 6,

[0043] - a processing unit 11 electrically connected at least to the wireless communication unit 7 and configured to provide at least one processed audio signal from an audio source signal preferably received via the wireless communication unit 7,

[0044] - an amplification unit 12 comprising an input 13 electrically connected to the processing unit 11 and comprising a first output 14 electrically connected at least to the audio playback unit 9 to transmit to at least one loudspeaker 10 at least a first amplified audio output signal from the processed audio signal received by the input 13,

[0045] - a power management unit 15 and a self-contained internal power storage unit 16, the power management unit 15 being configured to be electrically connected to at least one power supply comprising the internal power storage unit 16 and, where applicable, an external power supply 17, and being electrically connected at least to the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12, and the wireless communication unit 7 for managing their power supply from the power supply. According to the invention, the multimedia system is characterized in that:

[0046] - the amplification unit 12 of the multimedia device 1 further includes at least one second output 18 configured to be connectable to at least one cabin speaker 6 of the audio device 5 and to transmit to at least one cabin speaker 6 of the audio device 5 at least one second amplified audio output signal from the processed audio source signal, - and at least one cabin speaker 6 of the audio device 5 is configured to be connectable to at least one second output 18 of the amplification unit 12 of the multimedia device 1 in the docking area 4 in the connected position P1 to receive said second amplified audio signal.

[0047] According to the invention, the multimedia device 1, a portable Bluetooth speaker, integrates all the amplification components necessary to play music and / or other sounds in vehicle 2, and in particular to address the vehicle 2's interior speaker(s) 6. Indeed, vehicle 2 may advantageously only have the interior speaker(s) 6 and be completely devoid of its own integrated audio amplification system. The invention proposes to allow the multimedia device 1 to be connected to a vehicle 2 lacking an integrated multimedia unit, but equipped with one or more interior speakers 6, thus enabling music and / or sound playback in vehicle 2 via at least the vehicle 2's interior speaker(s) 6. The invention therefore simplifies existing configurations since the integrated audio amplification system can advantageously be absent from vehicle 2.Multimedia device 1 can be advantageously used as the main multimedia system in vehicle 2. This innovation makes it possible to offer an even less expensive solution in the passenger compartment of vehicle 2 and, in addition, to offer a mobile experience outside of vehicle 2. Multimedia device 1 thus remains usable on the go outside of vehicle 2, in addition to also being usable in vehicle 2.

[0048] Preferably, the multimedia device 1 includes at least one audio output connector 19 electrically connected to at least one second output 18 of the amplifier unit 12 to electrically connect the latter to at least one cabin speaker 6 of the audio device 5.

[0049] Thanks to this configuration, the multimedia device 1 can be electrically connected to at least one cabin speaker 6 of the audio device 5 via at least one output audio connector 19. This arrangement allows music and / or sound playback in vehicle 2 via the cabin speaker(s) 6 of vehicle 2.

[0050] Preferably, the multimedia device 1 includes at least one power connector 20 electrically connected to the power management unit 15 to electrically connect the latter to the external power supply 17 preferably from the vehicle 2.

[0051] Advantageously, the multimedia device 1 is electrically connectable to the external power supply 17 preferably from the vehicle 2 via at least one power connector 20 so as to allow its charging.

[0052] Preferably, the multimedia device 1 further includes at least one CAN communication connector 21 for electrically connecting the processing unit 11 to the CAN communication network 22 of the vehicle 2.

[0053] Advantageously, the multimedia device 1 is electrically connectable to the CAN 22 communication network of vehicle 2 via at least one CAN 21 communication connector. This arrangement allows data communication between the multimedia device 1 and vehicle 2. This communication is preferably used to control the multimedia device 1, for example, to control it from the steering wheel or to control the volume of at least one speaker 10 and / or at least one cabin speaker 6 according to parameters of vehicle 2 such as the speed of vehicle 2.

[0054] Preferably, the processing unit 11 is configured to receive at least specific setting data relating to the configuration of at least one cabin speaker 6 preferably from the external communication device 8 preferably mobile or preferably from the CAN communication network 22 of the vehicle 2 and in that the processing unit 11 is configured to provide a specific processed audio source signal which is a function of the specific setting to the input 13 of the amplification unit 12.

[0055] Advantageously, in this configuration multimedia device 1 contains a specific audio tuning setting to optimize sound reproduction in vehicle 2.

[0056] Preferably, the multimedia device 1 further comprises a human-machine interface 23 including at least one control button 24 and / or a preferably LCD screen 25 and / or at least one indicator light 26, and in that the human-machine interface 23 is configured to transmit at least one command to the processing unit 11. Advantageously, this interface can be used in a vehicle to control the multimedia device 1.

[0057] Preferably, the multimedia device 1 further includes a support 27 for receiving the mobile external communication device 8 and an inductive charger 28 configured to electrically charge at least one battery 29 of the mobile external communication device 8.

[0058] Advantageously, this configuration allows an external communication device 8, preferably a mobile smartphone, to be recharged by induction via the multimedia device 1.

[0059] Preferably, the reception area 4 includes at least one additional audio input connector 30 electrically connected to at least one cabin speaker 6 and in the connected position P1 of the multimedia device 1, the amplifier unit 12 of the multimedia device 1 and at least one cabin speaker 6 are electrically connected by the connection of at least one audio connector 19 of the multimedia device 1 with at least one additional audio input connector 30 to transmit to at least one cabin speaker 6 at least the second amplified audio output signal from the processed audio source signal.

[0060] Advantageously, in the connected position P1, the seating area 4 and the multimedia device 1 are connected by connecting at least one audio connector 19 of the multimedia device 1 to at least one additional audio input connector 30 of the seating area 4. This makes it possible to transmit at least the second amplified audio output signal from the processed audio source signal from the multimedia device 1 to at least one interior speaker 6. As a result, at least one interior speaker 6 can enable music and / or sound playback in vehicle 2. In this configuration, the multimedia device 1 acts as an audio amplifier for vehicle 2.

[0061] Preferably, the multimedia assembly includes the external power supply 17 of the vehicle 2, the docking area 4 includes an additional power connector 31 electrically connected to the external power supply 17, and in the connected position P1 of the multimedia device 1, the power management unit 15 of the multimedia device 1 is electrically connected to the external power supply 17 by the connection of at least one power connector 20 of the multimedia device 1 with at least one additional power connector 31 to electrically supply at least the processing unit 11, the amplifier unit 12 and the wireless communication unit 7 of the multimedia device 1.

[0062] Advantageously, in the connected position P1, the reception area 4 and the multimedia device 1 are connected by the connection of at least one power connector 20 of the multimedia device 1 with at least one additional power connector 31. It is thus possible to power the multimedia device 1 from the electrical energy supplied by the external power source 17 of the vehicle 2 via the power management unit 15. The power management unit 15 can, for example, control the charging of the autonomous internal electrical storage unit 16 which then switches to charging.

[0063] Preferably, in the connected position P1 of the multimedia device 1, the amplification unit 12 is further configured to transmit at least the first amplified audio output signal to at least one speaker 10 of the multimedia device 1.

[0064] Advantageously, the multimedia device 1 acts as an audio amplifier for the vehicle 2 and also as a speaker 10 in the seating area 4 of the vehicle 2. Preferably, the multimedia set further includes the CAN communication network 22 of the vehicle 2, the seating area 4 includes at least one CAN communication connector 32 electrically connected to the CAN communication network 22 and in the connected position P1 of the multimedia device 1, the processing unit 11 of the multimedia device 1 is electrically connected to the CAN communication network 22 by the connection of at least one CAN communication connector 21 of the multimedia device 1 with at least one additional CAN communication connector 32.

[0065] Advantageously, in the connected position P1 the reception area 4 and the multimedia device 1 are connected by the connection of at least one CAN communication connector 21 of the multimedia device 1 with at least one additional CAN communication connector 32. It is thus possible to establish communication between the multimedia device 1 and the vehicle 2 for the purpose of exchanging data.

[0066] Preferably, the interior arrangement 3 of the vehicle 2 further includes a control interface 33 connected to the CAN communication network 22 and in the connected position P1 of the multimedia device 1, the control interface 33 is configured to control the processing unit 11 of the multimedia device 1.

[0067] The control interface 33, connected to the CAN communication network 22, allows various controls to be performed on the multimedia device 1 when it is in the connected position P1. For example, the control interface 33 can act as a volume button and / or a source selector.

[0068] Preferably, the internal electrical storage unit 16 is configured to independently supply electrical power to at least the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12 and the wireless communication unit 7 and in a nomadic position P2 of the multimedia device 1 in which the multimedia device 1 is usable independently of the vehicle 2, the connectors of the multimedia device 1 are at least electrically disconnected from the connectors of the docking area 4 and the amplification unit 12 is configured to transmit only the first amplified audio output signal from the audio source signal to at least one speaker 10 of the multimedia device 1.

[0069] Advantageously, in this configuration the portable multimedia device 1 operates autonomously and mobilely, for example for Bluetooth streaming from the external communication device 8, preferably a mobile smartphone.

[0070] The invention also relates to vehicle 2 comprising the multimedia unit characterized in that the multimedia unit is according to the invention and as described above.

[0071] Vehicle 2 can be a car. Vehicle 2 could be, for example, a hybrid, electric, or internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0072] The multimedia system according to the invention includes at least the multimedia device 1 and the interior layout 3 of the vehicle 2. The interior layout 3 of a vehicle 2 includes at least one reception area 4 and the audio device 5 including at least one cabin speaker 6.

[0073] The multimedia system comprises the interior layout 3 of the vehicle 2, including at least the mounting area 4, notably on a dashboard, of a removable portable multimedia device 1, which may or may not be housed in a dedicated compartment within the mounting area 4. The interior layout 3 of the vehicle 2 includes at least one separate passenger-side speaker 6, distinct from the multimedia device 1. The multimedia device 1 includes at least one integrated speaker 10. The multimedia device 1 includes amplification means capable of providing electrical power to each passenger-side speaker 6.

[0074] The interior arrangement 3 of the vehicle may include the passenger compartment of vehicle 2 intended for the users of vehicle 2. The passenger compartment of vehicle 2 includes, for example, one or more seats and / or a dashboard and / or one or more door interiors and / or a trunk, etc.

[0075] The interior layout 3 preferably includes one or more reception areas 4 located in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2.

[0076] A fourth reception area can preferably be located on the dashboard, this central position being advantageous as it is particularly accessible for the driver and front passenger. However, this location is not limited, and other fourth reception areas can be provided, for example, on the seats and / or inside the doors.

[0077] Reception area 4 preferably includes a housing sized to accommodate multimedia device 1.

[0078] The housing of the reception area 4 and the housing of the multimedia device 1 may have complementary shapes and / or mechanical coupling means which allow their mechanical connection in the connected position P1.

[0079] The reception area 4 also preferably includes additional connectivity to that of the multimedia device 1 located in the housing and in particular at least one additional audio input connector 30, and optionally an additional power connector 31, and optionally an additional CAN communication connector 32. Preferably, the reception area 4 includes at least one pair of additional audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities per passenger compartment speaker 6.

[0080] According to a preferred example, the supplementary connectivity includes a supplementary high-speed CAN communication connector 32, a supplementary low-speed CAN communication connector 32, a supplementary twelve-volt power connector 31, a supplementary ground power connector 31, a first pair of supplementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities, a second pair of supplementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities, a third pair of supplementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities, and a fourth pair of supplementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities.

[0081] The additional connectivity of reception area 4 can take the form of a piston connector with a plurality of contacts.

[0082] The additional connectors can be of standard or non-standard type.

[0083] The interior arrangement 3 further includes the audio system 5 which includes at least one cabin speaker 6.

[0084] The audio system 5 may include one or more cabin speakers 6. At least one cabin speaker 6 is preferably located in the passenger compartment, for example, on the door interior(s) and / or the dashboard. According to a preferred example, the audio system 5 has four speakers: a front right cabin speaker 6 located on the right side of the dashboard, a front left cabin speaker 6 located on the left side of the dashboard, a rear right cabin speaker 6 located on the inside of the right rear door, and a rear left cabin speaker 6 located on the inside of the left rear door.

[0085] In this example, the front right cabin speaker 6 is electrically connected to the first pair of complementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities, the front left cabin speaker 6 is electrically connected to the second pair of complementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities, the rear right cabin speaker 6 is electrically connected to the third pair of complementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities, and the rear cabin speaker 6 is electrically connected to the fourth pair of complementary audio input connectors 30 having opposite polarities.

[0086] The audio device 5 may be without an audio source and / or audio amplifier and / or control interface, which will not prevent the operation of the multimedia set according to the invention in the connected position P1 of the multimedia device 1.

[0087] However, it is not incompatible with the invention that the audio device 5 includes an integrated audio source and / or an integrated audio amplifier and / or an integrated control interface for addressing at least one interior speaker 6. In this case, operation would still be possible even without the multimedia device 1. Optionally, the multimedia system may include the vehicle's CAN 22 communication network, which includes at least one bus-type data transmission device. This allows for data exchange by establishing unidirectional or bidirectional communication links. This data may consist of commands and / or information related to the configuration of the vehicle 2 and / or the multimedia device 1. This list is not exhaustive.

[0088] Optionally, the multimedia package may include an external power source 17 from vehicle 2. The external power source 17 may include at least one battery from vehicle 2.

[0089] Generally, the external power supply 17 is not part of the multimedia unit 1. Nor is it contained within its housing. The multimedia unit may also include at least one auxiliary source connector located in the vehicle's interior layout 3, preferably on the dashboard, which allows for the connection of an external auxiliary audio source. Furthermore, at least one auxiliary source connector can be connected to the multimedia unit 1 when it is in the docking area 4 in the connected position P1. This configuration allows the external auxiliary audio source to be connected to the multimedia unit 1. The auxiliary source connector may be a standard USB type. The control interface 33 may include one or more multifunction buttons located on the dashboard.

[0090] The external communication device 8 is a separate entity from the multimedia device 1. The external communication device 8 is preferably mobile, of the smartphone type.

[0091] The multimedia device is of the portable speaker type.

[0092] The audio source of the multimedia device 1 can be wireless of the radio type and / or Bluetooth in this case the source signal can be received for example by the wireless communication unit 7.

[0093] The audio source of the multimedia device 1 can be wired, for example via a USB connector, or via the CAN 22 communication network of the vehicle 2. In the latter case, the sounds of the ADAS type driving assistance system can be broadcast and, where appropriate, spatialized by the multimedia system according to the invention.

[0094] The multimedia device 1 includes at least the wireless communication unit 7, the audio playback unit 9, the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12, the power management unit 15 and the internal electrical storage unit 16.

[0095] The multimedia device 1 preferably includes a housing which accommodates at least the wireless communication unit 7, the audio playback unit 9, the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12, the power management unit 15 and the internal electrical storage unit 16.

[0096] The wireless communication unit 7, the audio playback unit 9, the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12, the power management unit 15 are preferably materialized by one or more electronic boards.

[0097] Multimedia device 1 is a separate and removable physical entity from the reception area 4.

[0098] The multimedia device 1 is mobile between at least one connected position P1 in which it is at least received and preferably physically and electrically connected in the reception area 4 and a nomadic position in which it is physically and electrically disconnected from the reception area 4 and outside of it. In the connected position P1, the multimedia device 1 is located in the passenger compartment of the vehicle 2.

[0099] In the mobile position P2, the multimedia device 1 is located either inside or outside the vehicle 2. The multimedia device 1 can operate independently and while mobile.

[0100] The wireless communication unit 7 has at least the function of receiving an audio source signal by wireless communication for example with the external communication device 8.

[0101] The wireless communication unit 7 preferably allows the establishment of at least one unidirectional or bidirectional communication link with the external communication device 8. The wireless communication unit 7 preferably uses the exchange of electromagnetic waves in the radio frequency, i.e. less than 300 Gigahertz, typically in the case of FM radio or digital terrestrial radio (allowing connection to a remote radio transmitter).

[0102] The wireless communication unit 7 preferably includes a Bluetooth® module, allowing connection to a multimedia device such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0103] Optionally, the wireless communication unit 7 of the multimedia device 1 includes a Wi-Fi access point and / or a modem, preferably 4G / 5G. This configuration provides enhanced connectivity in both the connected position P1 and the mobile position P2.

[0104] Of course, the invention also applies to all other similar wireless communication technologies.

[0105] The audio playback unit 9 includes at least one speaker 10.

[0106] In the preferred example, the audio playback unit 9 includes two speakers 10, which notably allows for stereo sound playback.

[0107] The processing unit 11 preferably includes at least one microcontroller. The processing unit 11 preferably also includes memory.

[0108] The processing unit 11 allows, in particular, the processing of data received as input, for example, by the wireless communication unit 7 and / or at least one CAN communication connector 21, and the output of this data. The processing unit 11 is preferably electrically connected to the wireless communication unit 7, to at least one CAN communication connector 21, to the power management unit 15, and to the human-machine interface 23.

[0109] The processing unit 11 allows, in particular, from an audio source signal from the wireless communication unit 7 received at the input of the processing unit 11, to provide at the output the processed audio signal to the amplification unit 12. The amplification unit 12 has the function of amplifying the processed audio signal provided at the input 13.

[0110] The amplification unit 12 can include one or more amplifiers.

[0111] In a preferred example, the amplification unit 12 includes a first set of amplifiers to address the speaker(s) 10 of the multimedia device 1 by providing a second set of amplifiers to address the cabin speaker(s) 6 of the audio device 5.

[0112] The first set of amplifiers preferably includes at least as many first outputs 14 as there are speakers 10 to be addressed.

[0113] The second amplifier set preferably includes at least as many second outputs 18 as there are interior speakers 6 to be addressed. Each second output 18 preferably includes a positive polarity terminal and a negative polarity terminal, which are preferably connected to a pair of output audio connectors 19 having opposite polarities.

[0114] The multimedia device 1 preferably includes connectivity that complements that of the docking area 4, and in particular at least one audio output connector 19, and optionally a power connector 20 and optionally a CAN communication connector 21. The connectivity is accessible from outside the housing of the multimedia device 1. The connectivity is accessible from outside the lower face of the housing of the multimedia device 1.According to a preferred example, the connectivity of the multimedia device 1 includes a high-speed CAN communication connector 21, a low-speed CAN communication connector 21, a twelve-volt power connector 20, a ground power connector 20, a first pair of audio input connectors 19 having opposite polarities, a second pair of audio input connectors 19 having opposite polarities, a third pair of audio input connectors 19 having opposite polarities, and a fourth pair of audio input connectors 19 having opposite polarities.

[0115] The power management unit 15 has the function of managing at least the power supply of the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12 and the wireless communication unit 7 from the power supply source.

[0116] The power supply for the multimedia device 1 is not necessarily internal to the multimedia device 1; this is the case when it is the external power supply 17 from the vehicle 2 in the connected position P1.

[0117] The power supply for multimedia device 1 can be internal if it comes from the internal electrical storage unit 16.

[0118] The internal electrical storage unit 16 enables the multimedia device 1 to operate independently, particularly in the portable position P2. The internal electrical storage unit 16 preferably includes at least one battery.

[0119] The battery is preferably rechargeable from the external power source 17 which can come from the vehicle 2 in particular in the connected position P1 or from the electrical network.

[0120] The power management unit 15 can optionally be electrically connected to the inductive charger 28.

[0121] The human-machine interface 23 is preferably electrically connected to the processing unit 11 for order management.

[0122] Preferably, the indicator light 26 of the multimedia device 1 includes one or more LEDs to complement and / or contribute to the ambient lighting in the vehicle 2.

[0123] Optionally, the multimedia unit 1 has a hands-free function for telephone calls received and / or made with the external communication device 8. This function is available in both the connected position P1 and the mobile position P2. Optionally, the multimedia unit 1 has a personal assistant function for controlling vehicle 2 functions by voice.

[0124] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an example of a multimedia package which includes the multimedia device 1 and the vehicle interior layout 3 2.

[0125] The multimedia unit 1 has two speakers 10 and is in the portable position P2. The interior arrangement 3 includes the seating area 4 and four cabin speakers 6 of the audio system 5, two of which are located towards the front of the interior arrangement 3 and are distributed left and right, and two others are located towards the rear of the interior arrangement 3 and are distributed left and right. The seating area 4 is located in a central area at the front of the interior arrangement 3.

[0126] Figure 2 schematically illustrates the multimedia system shown in Figure 1, which includes the multimedia unit 1 and the interior layout 3 of vehicle 2. The seating area 4 is not shown for simplicity. This multimedia system example also shows the external power supply 17 of vehicle 2 and the audio output connector 19 and the power connector 20 of the multimedia unit 1. In this example, the multimedia unit 1 is in the connected position P1. In this position, the multimedia unit 1 is electrically connected to the audio device 5, notably via the audio output connector 19, which powers the four speakers 6. It is also connected to the external power supply 17 of vehicle 2, notably via the power connector 20, which powers the multimedia unit 1.

[0127] Figure 3 schematically illustrates the multimedia unit 1 in the connected position P1 and its possible connections to the external power supply 17 of vehicle 2, the audio unit 5 of vehicle 2, the CAN communication network of vehicle 2, and the external communication unit 8. For this purpose, the multimedia unit 1 includes the audio output connector 19, the power connector 20 (as already illustrated in Figure 2), and the CAN communication connector 21, which enables data communication between vehicle 2 and the multimedia unit 1. Figure 4 schematically illustrates an example of an electrical connection between the multimedia unit 1 and the docking station 4 in the connected position P1. Specifically, the docking station 4 includes the supplementary audio input connector 30, which is electrically connected to the audio output connector 19 of the multimedia unit 1.

[0128] Figure 5 schematically illustrates another example of an electrical connection between the multimedia unit 1 and the docking area 4 in the connected position P1. Specifically, the docking area 4 includes the supplementary audio input connector 30, which is electrically connected to the audio output connector 19 of the multimedia unit 1, as shown in Figure 4. Furthermore, the docking area 4 includes the supplementary power connector 31, which is electrically connected to the power connector 20 of the multimedia unit 1. The supplementary power connector 31 of the docking area 4 is, in turn, electrically connected to the external power source 17 from the vehicle 2. This configuration allows for charging the internal power storage unit 16 of the multimedia unit 1 and / or directly powering the multimedia unit 1.In all cases, the power supply for the multimedia device 15 is managed by the power supply unit 15. Additionally, the supplementary CAN communication connector 32 is electrically connected to the CAN communication connector 21 of the multimedia device 1. The supplementary CAN communication connector 32 is electrically connected to the CAN communication network 22 of the vehicle 2, which is itself electrically connected to the control interface 33. This configuration enables data communication between the multimedia device 1 and the vehicle 2, and allows various controls to be performed on the multimedia device 1 via the control interface 33 located in the vehicle 2.

[0129] Figure 6 schematically illustrates an example of the multimedia device 1 and its possible connection links with the audio device 5, the external communication device 8, the external power supply 17 and the CAN communication network 22, via respectively the audio output connector 19, a wireless communication link shown by a dotted line, the power connector 20 and the CAN communication connector 21.

[0130] In this example, the multimedia device 1 comprises the wireless communication unit 7, the audio playback unit 9 including two speakers 10, the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12, the power management unit 15, the self-contained internal power storage unit 16, the human-machine interface 23, the stand 27, and the inductive charger 28. The amplification unit 12 includes the input 13 electrically connected to the processing unit 11, the first output 14 electrically connected to the audio playback unit 9, and the second output 18 electrically connected to the audio output connector 19. The processing unit 11 is further electrically connected to the wireless communication unit 7, the power management unit 15, the human-machine interface 23, and the CAN communication connector 21.The power management unit 15 is electrically connected to the processing unit 11, the amplification unit 12, the wireless communication unit 7, and the inductive charger 28. This last component enables inductive charging of the battery 29 of the external communication device 8, such as a smartphone. The power management unit 15 manages the electricity supplied by the external power source 17 and / or the independent internal power storage unit 16.

[0131] Figure 7 schematically and partially illustrates possible interconnections in the multimedia system between the multimedia unit 1 in the connected position P1, the docking area 4, the cabin speaker 6, and the external power supply 17. The amplifier unit 12 powers the cabin speaker 6 via the connection of the audio output connector 19 of the multimedia unit 1 with the supplementary audio input connector 30 of the docking area 4. The external power supply 17 provides power to the power management unit 15 via the connection of the supplementary power connector 31 of the docking area 4 with the power connector 20.

[0132] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications remain possible, particularly with regard to the composition of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. Multimedia package comprising at least one multimedia device (1) usable independently of a vehicle (2) and an interior layout (3) of a vehicle (2), the interior layout (3) of a vehicle (2) comprising: - at least one reception area (4) configured at least to removably receive, in at least one connected position (P1), the multimedia device (1), - an audio device (5) comprising at least one cabin speaker (6), the multimedia device (1) connectable to at least one reception area (4) comprising at least: - a wireless communication unit (7) configured to communicate with an external communication device (8), preferably mobile, - an audio playback unit (9) comprising at least one loudspeaker (10) separate from at least one interior loudspeaker (6), - a processing unit (11) electrically connected at least to the wireless communication unit (7) and configured to provide at least one processed audio signal from an audio source signal preferably received via the wireless communication unit (7), - an amplification unit (12) comprising an input (13) electrically connected to the processing unit (11) and comprising a first output (14) electrically connected at least to the audio playback unit (9) to transmit to at least one loudspeaker (10) at least a first amplified audio output signal from the processed audio signal received by the input (13), - a power management unit (15) and a self-contained internal power storage unit (16), the power management unit (15) being configured to be electrically connected to at least one power supply comprising the internal power storage unit (16) and, where applicable, an external power supply (17), and being electrically connected at least to the processing unit (11), the amplification unit (12) and the wireless communication unit (7) for the management of their power supply from the power supply, the multimedia system is characterized in that: - the amplification unit (12) of the multimedia device (1) further includes at least one second output (18) configured to be connectable to at least one cabin speaker (6) of the audio device (5) and to transmit to at least one cabin speaker (6) of the audio device (5) at least one second amplified audio output signal from the processed audio source signal, - and at least one cabin speaker (6) of the audio device (5) is configured to be connectable to at least one second output (18) of the amplifier unit (12) of the multimedia device (1) in the docking area (4) in the connected position (P1) to receive said second amplified audio signal.

2. Multimedia assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the multimedia device (1) comprises at least one audio output connector (19) electrically connected to at least one second output (18) of the amplifier unit (12) for electrically connecting the latter to at least one interior speaker (6) of the audio device (5).

3. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the multimedia device (1) comprises at least one power connector (20) electrically connected to the power management unit (15) for electrically connecting the latter to the external power supply (17), preferably from the vehicle (2).

4. Multimedia unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the multimedia device (1) further comprises at least one CAN communication connector (21) for electrically connecting the processing unit (11) to the CAN communication network (22) of the vehicle (2).

5. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 1 or 4, characterized in that the processing unit (11) is configured to receive at least specific setting data relating to the configuration of at least one cabin speaker (6) preferably from the external communication device (8) preferably mobile or preferably from the CAN communication network (22) of the vehicle (2) and in that the processing unit (11) is configured to provide a specific processed audio source signal which is a function of the specific setting to the input (13) of the amplification unit (12).

6. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the multimedia device (1) further comprises a human-machine interface (23) including at least one control button (24) and / or a preferably LCD screen (25) and / or at least one indicator light (26) and in that the human-machine interface (23) is configured to transmit at least one command to the processing unit (11).

7. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the multimedia device (1) further comprises a support (27) for receiving the mobile external communication device (8) and an inductive charger (28) configured to electrically charge at least one battery (29) of the mobile external communication device (8).

8. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the reception area (4) comprises at least one additional audio input connector (30) electrically connected to at least one cabin speaker (6) and in that in the connected position (P1) of the multimedia device (1), the amplification unit (12) of the multimedia device (1) and at least one cabin speaker (6) are electrically connected by the connection of at least one audio connector (19) of the multimedia device (1) with at least one additional audio input connector (30) to transmit to at least one cabin speaker (6) at least the second amplified audio output signal from the processed audio source signal.

9. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 8, characterized in that it comprises the external power supply (17) of the vehicle (2), in that the docking area (4) comprises an additional power connector (31) electrically connected to the external power supply (17), and in that in the connected position (P1) of the multimedia device (1), the power management unit (15) of the multimedia device (1) is electrically connected to the external power supply (17) by the connection of at least one power connector (20) of the multimedia device (1) with at least one additional power connector (31) to electrically supply at least the processing unit (11), the amplification unit (12) and the wireless communication unit (7) of the multimedia device (1).

10. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that in the connected position (P1) of the multimedia device (1), the amplification unit (12) is further configured to transmit to at least one speaker (10) of the multimedia device (1) at least the first amplified audio output signal.

11. Multimedia assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 10, characterized in that it further comprises the CAN communication network (22) of the vehicle (2), in that the cradle area (4) comprises at least one CAN communication connector (32) electrically connected to the CAN communication network (22) and in that in the connected position (P1) of the multimedia device (1), the processing unit (11) of the multimedia device (1) is electrically connected to the CAN communication network (22) by the connection of at least one CAN communication connector (21) of the multimedia device (1) with at least one additional CAN communication connector (32).

12. Multimedia assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the interior arrangement (3) of the vehicle (2) further comprises a control interface (33) connected to the CAN communication network (22) and in that in the connected position (P1) of the multimedia device (1), the control interface (33) is configured to control the processing unit (11) of the multimedia device (1).

13. Multimedia unit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the internal electrical storage unit (16) is configured to independently power at least the processing unit (11), the amplification unit (12) and the wireless communication unit (7) and in that in a nomadic position (P2) of the multimedia device (1) in which the multimedia device (1) is usable independently of the vehicle (2), the connectors of the multimedia device (1) are at least electrically disconnected from the connectors of the docking area (4) and the amplification unit (12) is configured to transmit only the first amplified audio output signal from the audio source signal to at least one loudspeaker (10) of the multimedia device (1) -

14. Vehicle comprising a multimedia unit characterized in that the multimedia unit is according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

Images