Abstract: An audio system for installation in the tailgate of a pickup truck. A rugged, weather-resistant audio system is installed in a fold-down section of a multi-part tailgate. The system may operate independently of the sound system in the vehicle; the truck does not need to be running for the system to function. A low current draw allows the system to play for hours. The system may include a control that automatically powers off the system when the tailgate is returned to the closed position. The system may incorporate a USB port for device charging and flash memory playback, along with full Bluetooth streaming compatibility.

Abstract: An integration unit IU for tuning an OEM sound system augmented with aftermarket components, such as an amplifier or a subwoofer. The integration unit is contained in a small housing that can be installed inconspicuously in most vehicles without removing the original head unit. The unit may comprise a DSP-based active line output converter that is configured to automatically detect the frequency response and phase of the OEM head unit. The unit performs various algorithms to detect and analyze crossovers, EQ, time delay, and allpass filters and then matches left and right audio channels. The IU may allow for low bass correction detecting and defeating the factory high pass filter. Still further, the IU can correct the various filters to ensure a clean, uncolored audio signal for the augmented components.

Abstract: An audio system for installation in the tailgate of a pickup truck. A rugged, weather-resistant audio system is installed in a fold-down section of a multi-part tailgate. The system may operate independently of the sound system in the vehicle; the truck does not need to be running for the system to function. A low current draw allows the system to play for hours. The system may include a control that automatically powers off the system when the tailgate is returned to the closed position. The system may incorporate a USB port for device charging and flash memory playback, along with full Bluetooth streaming compatibility.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the switching power supply in a car audio system. The system includes a circuit that detects when the signal voltage is approaching the power supply voltage rails, that is, circuit anticipates the conditions that cause “clipping” of the signal. In response to detecting the pre-clipping condition, the circuit boosts the power supply. Additionally, the inventive system includes a holding circuit for sustaining the boosted power supply for a predetermined period of time. Thus, the power is boosted as needed and remains on for a period of time thereby preventing frequent, repetitive activation of the power supply.

Abstract: A loudspeaker with a mounting assembly is ideally suited for attachment to a wakeboard tower. The mounting assembly includes a clamp assembly for attaching to the tower and a swivel assembly attached to the speaker enclosure. The base of the clamp assembly defines a docking channel that extends generally, and an electrical terminal is positioned at the blind end of the docking channel. The swivel assembly includes a bracket for attaching to the speaker housing and a terminal block that is rotatably mounted on top of the bracket. In this way, once the clamp assembly is attached to the tower bar, the terminal block can be guided into the docking channel by holding the speaker housing. The need to manage wires while mounting the speaker is eliminated by the pin and socket electrical terminals, and the swivel-mounted terminal block aligns itself as it is inserted into the docking channel.

Abstract: An Auto Setup Program (“ASP”) may be implemented in the sound system of a vehicle to accomplish the goal of a dramatically improved audio quality achievable in any vehicle, regardless of the speaker components and head-unit utilized. The ASP performs automated time alignment measurements and equalizer processes using an external microphone. The ASP eliminates the need for expensive and time consuming professional tuning operations. The on-board ASP can be run multiple times as desired. For example, the ASP can be executed after changes to the system, such as upgrading speakers.

Abstract: An Auto Setup Program (“ASP”) may be implemented in the sound system of a vehicle to accomplish the goal of a dramatically improved audio quality achievable in any vehicle, regardless of the speaker components and head-unit utilized. The ASP performs automated time alignment measurements and equalizer processes using an external microphone. The ASP eliminates the need for expensive and time consuming professional tuning operations. The on-board ASP can be run multiple times as desired. For example, the ASP can be executed after changes to the system, such as upgrading speakers.

Abstract: An “anti-clipping” circuit for car audio systems. The circuit reduces the input voltage from a signal source to an analog-to-digital converter by using a divider or by scaling the output of the pre-amplifier to less than the saturation voltage of the ADC. A digital signal processor (DSP) with a limiter algorithm ensures that the signal never exceeds a selected threshold. Then, a multiplying block in the DSP restores the signal to the original voltage level. The anti-clipping circuit protects the speakers from high total harmonic distortion (“THD”) levels and from distortion during engine start-up. It can also be used for thermal power rollback.

Abstract: An ultra low frequency transducer or subwoofer for automotive speaker systems with a polygonal, concave diaphragm. The periphery preferably is sized to be substantially coextensive with the front of the speaker housing or cabinet. In this way, air displacement in the subwoofer is maximized for a given size of enclosure, and thus so is the loudness of the speaker. The transducer typically includes a frame or basket with a polygonal front for supporting the periphery of the diaphragm. The preferred diaphragm includes a convex surround with pleated corners. For increased durability, trusses are formed in the diaphragm.

Abstract: An ultra low frequency transducer or subwoofer for automotive speaker systems with a rectangular or square or otherwise polygonal diaphragm. The basket of the transducer has a correspondingly polygonal front, which preferably is sized to be substantially coextensive with the front of the speaker housing or cabinet. In this way, air displacement in the subwoofer is maximized for a given size of enclosure, and thus so is the loudness of the speaker. The preferred diaphragm is concave, and the transducer preferably includes a convex surround with pleated corners. For increased durability, trusses are formed in the diaphragm.

Abstract: An ultra low frequency transducer or subwoofer for automotive speaker systems with a polygonal, concave diaphragm. The periphery preferably is sized to be substantially coextensive with the front of the speaker housing or cabinet. In this way, air displacement in the subwoofer is maximized for a given size of enclosure, and thus so is the loudness of the speaker. The transducer typically includes a frame or basket with a polygonal front for supporting the periphery of the diaphragm. The preferred diaphragm includes a convex surround with pleated corners. For increased durability, trusses are formed in the diaphragm.

Abstract: A vented tweeter with a low profile particularly suited for automotive applications where the mounting depth is limited. The tweeter comprises a motor with a central air passage extending through it and a lateral air chamber formed around it. Radial channels on the top of the motor connect the air gap in the motor with the central air passage, and radial channels under the motor connect the central air passage with the lateral air chamber. As the diaphragm oscillates, air can move back and forth between the air gap around the magnet and lateral space outside the motor. This configuration substantially increases the volume of air that can be acted on by the diaphragm without significantly increasing the length of the assembled tweeter or compromising the power of the motor. To enhance the power of the motor, a secondary magnet can be included above the top plate.

Abstract: A speaker with a replaceable cone assembly. The motor assembly has its own basket, which is mounted in the enclosure. The cone assembly also has its own basket, which fits inside the motor basket. In the event of damage or malfunction in the cone or coil, the entire cone assembly is easily removed and replaced, while the motor assembly and the main basket remain undisturbed in the enclosure. Preferably, the speaker includes a pole with additional vents to improve heat dissipation. The pole has a pole cap with vent openings aligned with the secondary vent passages in the pole. The pole cap has a plug to occlude the front end opening of the central or primary vent passage in the pole. The top of the cap is domed to provide a guide surface for the former as the replacement cone assembly is inserted in the motor assembly.

Abstract: An ultra low frequency transducer or subwoofer for automotive speaker systems with a rectangular or square, concave diaphragm. The square periphery preferably is sized to be substantially coextensive with the front of the speaker housing or cabinet. In this way, air displacement in the subwoofer is maximized for a given size of enclosure, and thus so is the loudness of the speaker. The transducer typically includes a frame or basket with a square front for supporting the periphery of the diaphragm. The preferred diaphragm includes a convex surround with pleated corners. For increased durability, trusses are formed in the diaphragm.

Abstract: An ultra low frequency transducer or subwoofer for automotive speaker systems with a rectangular or square, concave diaphragm. The square periphery preferably is sized to be substantially coextensive with the front of the speaker housing or cabinet. In this way, air displacement in the subwoofer is maximized for a given size of enclosure, and thus so is the loudness of the speaker. The transducer typically includes a frame or basket with a square front for supporting the periphery of the diaphragm. The preferred diaphragm includes a convex surround with pleated corners. For increased durability, trusses are formed in the diaphragm.