Abstract: A navigation system includes a user interface for detecting touch input. The system uses touch input to determine if a driver or passenger is operating the navigation system. If the system determines that the driver is operating the system, then an action is initiated (e.g., the user interface is locked down, a warning is provided). The navigation system allows a passenger in the vehicle to operate the navigation system while the vehicle is in motion. In an aspect, additional or other sensors (e.g., seat sensor, seat belt sensor, infrared sensor) can be used to detect whether a driver or passenger is operating the navigation system while the vehicle is in motion.

Abstract: A loudspeaker comprises a circuit board which mounts a number of light units each including multiple LEDs in a position so that when illuminated they are visible though a transparent or translucent diaphragm and protected from exposure to the environment external to the loudspeaker.

Abstract: A system including a phonograph record implement having a phonograph record with a plurality of grooves operable for recording audio data. A record player device is configured to read the audio data contents of said phonograph record implement. A wheel appliance moves or rotates on said phonograph record implement to produce an audio signal and a needle appliance reads or translates a plurality of grooves to an audio signal as the record player device moves around the stationary phonograph record. A speed control switch is operable for selecting at least one preset speed from a plurality of varying preset speeds for said record player device to operate. A wireless transmitter, which transmits the audio signal to an external receiver, which receives the audio signal produced from said stationary phonograph record for listening remotely.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling a scheduling order per category is disclosed. A scheduling order can be designated for the delivery and playback of multimedia content (e.g., music, news, other audio, advertising, etc) with respect to particular slots within the scheduling order. The broadcast day is divided into dayparts according to specific time slots. The dayparts are assigned with specific daypart categories wherein multimedia is scheduled. The scheduling order can be configured to include a slotted by daypart scheduling technique to control the scheduling order for the eventual airplay of the multimedia content over a radio station or network of associated radio stations.

Abstract: A method and device for assisting in driving a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, having a surroundings detector for detecting at least a partial area of the surroundings of the vehicle, an output device for the output of information concerning the vehicle surroundings obtained from the surroundings detection to a driver, and an evaluation unit for determining a risk level based on the vehicle-surroundings information. To facilitate driving of the vehicle, it is provided that at least a portion of the vehicle-surroundings information provided for determining the risk level, and the risk level determined by the evaluation unit are output continuously by the output device to the driver during operation of the vehicle.

Abstract: Cognitive radio devices, methods and systems are generally described. In some examples a communication system includes a cognitive device and a communications device. The cognitive device may include a cognitive receiver for processing a cognitive task, an antenna for receiving radio frequencies in communication with the receiver, and a communications port. The communications device may include a cognitive radio having a processor in communication with a cognitive receiver and a cognitive transmitter. The communications device may also include a portable power source in communication with the cognitive radio and an antenna for sending and receiving signals. A communications port can be arranged in communication with the communications device, where cognitive information can be communicated with the communications device.

Abstract: A method and device for accessing information identified from a broadcast audio signal receives a broadcast audio signal from a receiver such as a radio or television. Identifiers such as telephone numbers, URLs, e-mail addresses, and keywords are recognized and stored for immediate or later use by a user. An external network device identified by a recognized identifier is accessed based on user selection of a recognized identifier.

Abstract: A home entertainment network has a computer with a multi-DVD changer which holds plural DVDs onto which content from an hard disk drive (HDD) can be transferred for storage. Also, DVD content can be ripped to the HDD, and multiple copies of home videos and photographs on the HDD can be made onto several disks simultaneously.

Abstract: A method for storing information, in particular audio signals, received via radio, in particular broadcast radio, the received information being written to a first memory, where the information stored in the first memory is overwritten by newly received information, preferably no later than when the memory capacity of the first memory is exceeded by the sum of the information stored in the first memory, and where in response to a record command all or part of the information present in the first memory is transferred into a second memory. As a result, even when playback of information which is of interest to the user has already begun, the latter can nevertheless record the entire information unit, for example the whole piece of music, part of which has already been played back, in its entirety right from the beginning.

Abstract: A video signal recording apparatus with a video and audio memorizing section for temporarily memorizing an inputted video audio signal, a time code generating section for generating a time-code of said video audio signal an auxiliary information memorizing section for temporarily memorizing auxiliary information appended to said video audio signal including said time code generating a regeneration value obtained from a time code to which one frame time is added to said recorded time code when a recording starts and correcting said regeneration value for an amount of delay corresponding to a storage volume temporarily memorized in said auxiliary information (time code, metadata, CUE audio signal, and the like) memorizing section and thus obtaining a corrected time code, and thereafter sequential time codes are generated from said corrected time code though said time code generating section.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, method, and media directed to navigation in the field of digital radio systems are provided. For example, an apparatus, method, or medium can be implemented to provide a multi-tuner portable digital radio device that includes multiple modes and/or advances navigation tools.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of operating a cognitive radio device (100), particularly a mobile terminal, which is capable of establishing radio communications with a further radio device, particularly a base station of a communications network and/or a further mobile terminal. The inventive method is characterized by: providing a communication parameter database (110) local to said cognitive radio device (100), wherein said communication parameter database (110) comprises communication parameters related to geographic locations, determining a geographic location of said cognitive radio device (100), and by choosing one or more communication parameters for a future radio communication depending on said communication parameter database (110) and the determined location of the cognitive radio device (100).

Abstract: A method for storing information, in particular audio signals, received via radio, in particular broadcast radio, the received information being written to a first memory, where the information stored in the first memory is overwritten by newly received information, preferably no later than when the memory capacity of the first memory is exceeded by the sum of the information stored in the first memory, and where in response to a record command all or part of the information present in the first memory is transferred into a second memory. As a result, even when playback of information which is of interest to the user has already begun, the latter can nevertheless record the entire information unit, for example the whole piece of music, part of which has already been played back, in its entirety right from the beginning.

Abstract: An audio system that allows audio to be stored and/or moved between components of the audio system by means of digital plug-in cards.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a channel down mixing apparatus for a car audio system for reducing manufacture cost and switching noise by implementing a sub-woofer down mixing portion, a buffer portion and a switching circuit portion to one body with an application of simple circuit elements thereto.

Abstract: A semiconductor integrated circuit for an audio system includes a playback processing section for playing back at least an optical disk, a frequency measurement circuit for measuring a frequency of a radio signal from a tuner, a display control circuit for making a display device display at least the frequency of the radio signal, and a controller for controlling the playback processing section, the frequency measurement circuit, and the display control circuit, according to an external signal. The playback processing section, the frequency measurement circuit, the display control circuit, and the controller are formed on a single semiconductor chip.

Abstract: A DVD audio signal reproducer reproduces a DVD to generate a DVD reproduced audio signal. A reproduced signal determiner determines whether the DVD reproduced audio signal is a 5.1-channel digital surround audio signal or a 2-channel digital audio signal, and generates a determination signal. If the determination signal indicates that the DVD reproduced audio signal is a 5.1-channel digital surround audio signal, a digital surround effector converts the DVD reproduced audio signal to a 2-channel digital surround audio signal.

Abstract: An electronic equipment having an electronic equipment body, and first and second operation units. The first operation unit includes a display device and a control CPU. The second operation unit includes a display device and a control CPU. The electronic equipment body includes system CPU, a power source for display device for the first operation unit, a power source for control CPU for supplying a power source to the control CPU, a power source for display device for the second operation unit, and a power source for control CPU for supplying a power source to the control CPU, and further includes a position detection part for detecting positions of the operation units. The power source for display device is cut off and then the power source for control CPU is cut off based on the positions of the first and second operation units.

Abstract: We have disclosed an enhanced radio system that provides for the capture and playback of one or more radio stations. The user may tune to a station, or scan through stations, rewind to hear what was missed, and fast-forward through undesired content. The system allows a user to rate content, and to be notified when that content is being played on any station. The system may make radio station recommendations. The system allows the user to respond easily to radio content, download audio content, and send radio content to another user. The system may provide other radio related and radio content related information. The system may provide a karaoke mode. The system may also allow the user to integrate a telephone with the radio. The system may report usage information to a collection facility.

Abstract: Messaging, such as promotional messaging, is delivered to users of digital audio media players, such as digital disc and tape players. Portable players are especially suited for practice of the invention. Players include a wireless receiver to receive messages and memory for storage of messages. Alternatively, player memory is preloaded with messages. A controller plays messages at reasonable times, e.g., at breaks between tracks of the audio disc or tape being played. Advertising or promotional messages are broadcast to capable digital audio players via wireless transmission and stored in memory. The player reads control information on the disc and stores it in memory. The control information is used to play messages from memory. An effective promotion method is enabled through the invention and use of a player capable of message reception, storage and play in accordance with the invention.

Abstract: A voice-controlled system for providing digital audio content in an automobile is presented. The system comprises a CPU unit that includes a microprocessor programmed to decode and deliver digital media such as MP3s and ebooks to a listener. The CPU unit also includes a storage device for storing the media, RAM and a power supply. The storage device is a “plug-in” unit, such as a hard disc drive, that may be removed and inserted into a home computer for downloading media. The system is controlled using a voice-based input device that interfaces with the CPU unit. The voice-based device is operative to control in a hands-free manner, for example, the selection of the media to be delivered and the volume at which the media is delivered. A display and control unit is suitable for mounting on the dashboard of an automobile and provides an alternative to voice control of the system.

Abstract: A vehicle audio system is provided that includes an audio receiver having a radio tuner and a random access media reader adapted for accessing audio data files such as those stored on a compact disc. The audio system includes a display having a plurality of display formats for displaying a label associated with an audio data file, and a display switch having a first mode operable for shifting the display from one of the plurality of display formats to another of the plurality of display formats, a second mode operable for setting the default display format to another display format, and a third mode operable for initiating sequential display of a plurality of display pages to displaying the label.

Abstract: A plurality of users each selects desired listening broadcast programs that are recorded by a system in a memory and indexed to the specific user. The user may also select the desired playback schedule and playback format. Conveniently, the system retrieves recorded broadcast programs stored in memory, then plays them according to the specific user's desired format and schedule. Additionally, each user may select which broadcast programs are stored, which broadcast frequencies are scanned by the system for the desired broadcast programs, and how long each broadcast program is stored in memory.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for automatically playing a recorded message, from a uniquely formatted encrypted CD, correlated to a specific date and a time of day as an option on a CD clock radio or the like. Disclosed are means for distinguishing the unique CD format and thereafter following a prescribed process for decrypting and playing. Otherwise all device functions and options operate in their conventional modes.

Abstract: A method for the reproduction of information, as well as an arrangement therefor, are proposed, in which upon the arrival of information from a first information source, that information is recorded; if no information from a further information source is present, the information from the first information source is reproduced; if information from a further information source is present, that information is reproduced on a priority basis before the information from the first information source; and if, during the reproduction of information from the first information source, information from a further information source arrives, reproduction of the information from the first information source is interrupted, and the information from the further information source is reproduced, in which after completion of the reproduction of the information from the further information source, any information from the first information source not reproduced or not completely reproduced can be reproduced from the recording sy

Abstract: A method of recording upcoming radio broadcasts to a digital storage device. Recordings can be played back when most convenient for the listener. The embodiments my invention can implement may vary and is not limited to table top radios (depicted in included drawings), entertainment system radios, car stereo radios, portable radios, or any other radio devices.

Abstract: A play-back device includes a body device including: a playback mode setting unit for selecting a plurality of playback modes such as a CD mode, an AM mode and an FM mode; a front side speaker and a rear side headphone for selecting an arbitrary one of the playback modes to output play-back signals in the arbitrary playback mode; a front operation unit for operations relating to the front side; and a rear operation unit for operations relating to the rear side. Further included is a control unit for not accepting but making ineffective an operation to release a mute/pause state, even if done from the rear operation unit, when it is decided that the front side is in the mute/pause state while the front side and the rear side are in a common playback mode.

Abstract: A radio receiver for use in a vehicle, the radio receiver including a hard-disk drive having a hard disk, on which data can be stored in a non-volatile manner on storage locations of the hard disk, and a write-read memory so that data stored on the hard disk can be transferred into the write-read memory and can be displayed on a display device.

Abstract: A method of recording a plurality of audio signals associated with an entertainment sound system (42) of an automotive vehicle (12) includes an audio input (20). A plurality of audio signals (18) is transmitted from the audio input (20) to a controller (24) within the automotive vehicle (12). A preferred plurality of audio signals (36) is acoustically played on the entertainment sound system (42). A recorder (28) is actuated to record the preferred plurality of audio signals (34) onto an electronic medium (30) within the vehicle (42). Consequently, the preferred plurality of audio signals (34) is recorded onto the electronic medium (30). An acoustical transmission of the preferred plurality of audio signals (34) received from said audio input (20) is halted at a halting point. Finally, the acoustical transmission is resumed from the electronic medium (30), from the halting point simultaneously as the plurality of audio signals (18) continues being recorded.

Abstract: When some failure has been detected as a result of self diagnosis in first and second sound playback units (20, 30), a nonvolatile memory (48) in a control unit (40) stores device, product, and error codes, and a predetermined pattern for informing that failure is displayed on a panel display device (12). The stored codes can be displayed on the panel display device (12) in response to predetermined first operation, and when input operation for operating the disabled unit is made at a control panel (10), the CPU 46 re-displays the predetermined pattern for informing the failure on the display device with reference to the stored codes.

Abstract: A method for processing digital audio data is presented. A control signal for a CD-changer unit is received and interpreted by a digital audio unit that stores digital audio data/files and that determines a CD-changer unit operation that would be performed by the CD-changer unit in response to the CD-changer unit receiving the control signal. The digital audio unit then emulates the CD-changer unit operation. The CD-changer unit to be emulated by the digital audio unit can be selected. The digital audio data stored by the digital audio unit can be organized as virtual CD-ROMs. By emulating the operations of multiple types of CD-changer units, a single digital audio unit can be inserted in many different digital audio systems, thereby extending the functionality of a digital audio system to include storage of softcopy digital audio files that may be accessed through controls and commands for a CD-changer unit.

Abstract: A digital sound-signal broadcaster includes a control faceplate to control the rotating speed and direction of a turntable so as to operate the music data of a CD stored in a dynamic memory chip to make a variety of special sound effects to heighten atmosphere of joy, not only easy in handling and convenient in carrying but possible to prevent any wear as well.

Abstract: A digital and analog sound-signal broadcaster includes a turntable controllable by a user in its rotating speed and direction, and a traditional plastic record or a special record to be placed on the turntable. A user can also control music data of a CD to be stored in a dynamic memory chip, broadcasting a variety of special sound effects, bringing forth joy, pleasure and glamorous atmosphere. Thus the digital and analog sound-signal broadcaster can broadcast separately music from a traditional plastic record and that from a CD with easy operation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for automatically playing a recorded message, from a uniquely formatted encrypted CD, correlated to a specific date and a time of day as an option on a CD clock radio or the like. Disclosed are means for distinguishing the unique CD format and thereafter following a prescribed process for decrypting and playing. Otherwise all device functions and options operate in their conventional modes.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an easy-to-use radio that enables quick selection of radio station channels according to program type. The radio includes a receiver for receiving radio wave signals on radio station signal channels having radio data information, and has a tuner tuneable to one or more of the radio station signal channels. The radio has a processor for receiving and deciphering the radio data information and memory for storing a plurality of programmable preset channels according to a program type indicative of the type of the radio station broadcast. The radio further has a user input for selecting one of the programmable presets and for further selecting one of the preset radio station signal channels based on the selected preset.

Abstract: Listening to a CD by using headphones for example is interrupted by voice signals. A control microcomputer 55 executes a procedure for establishing a connection for communication with a communication unit. When the connection has been established, the control microcomputer 55 sets a switch 59 from a terminal a for supplying, to headphones 22, the reproduction output of a CD 23 to a terminal b for supplying a voice signal received at an antenna 21 to the headphones 22.

Abstract: When some failure has been detected as a result of self diagnosis in first and second sound playback units (20, 30), a nonvolatile memory (48) in a control unit (40) stores device, product, and error codes, and a predetermined pattern for informing that failure is displayed on a panel display device (12). The stored codes can be displayed on the panel display device (12) in response to predetermined first operation, and when input operation for operating the disabled unit is made at a control panel (10), the CPU 46 re-displays the predetermined pattern for informing the failure on the display device with reference to the stored codes.

Abstract: A combined compact disc/radio system for an automobile includes a multiple compact disc player, a radio receiver, and a controller. The multiple compact disc player is provided with a magazine having n individual slots for storing n compact discs. The controller has a bezel provided with an eject button, a load button, n memory buttons each corresponding to a respective one of the slots, an information display area, and a single compact disc opening for inserting and removing compact discs from the multiple compact disc player. The memory buttons function as radio tuning preset station memory switches when the radio receiver is operating and function to identify slots to be loaded and unloaded when the multiple compact disc player is operating.

Abstract: A method and arrangement for monitoring the audio portion of a broadcast signal includes a keyword listening device. A relatively limited set of keywords are stored in a memory and the keyword listening device monitors the broadcast signal for any of these keywords. Upon recognition of any one or more of the keywords, the broadcast audio signal is recorded for a period of time and then fully analyzed. After analysis, and in dependence upon the recorded and analyzed broadcast audio signal, a number of different functions, such as connection to an external network at a specified address, or control of a video cassette recorder, may be performed.

Abstract: A digital-analog shared circuit in dual mode radio equipment, which shares a local oscillator in a digital mode and analog mode. A first frequency synthesizer generates a first and a second local oscillation frequency in a digital and an analog receiving mode, respectively, in response to a control signal from a switching control. In the digital receiving mode, a quadrature demodulater including a first and a second demodulator in a demodulator section is enabled, and carries out quadrature detection of a received signal fed from an RF stage, thereby supplying the detected signal to a baseband signal processor stage. In the analog receiving mode, a buffer to which the second local oscillation frequency is supplied is enabled to deliver the second local oscillation frequency to the analog IF stage. A second frequency synthesizer generates a third local oscillation frequency in a digital transmitting mode and a fourth local oscillation frequency in an analog transmitting mode.

Abstract: Installing a high quality audio source, such as a CD player, in an automobil requires often installation of a radio/tuner of sufficient quality to provide an audio signal corresponding to the quality of the audio source. In leased automobils this presents a problem because of warrenty and return conditions. The problem is solved by using a separate amplifier connected into the wiring between factory installed radio/tuner and loudspeakers and sensing the setting of the radio/tuner control knobs by placing a defined modulated carrier on the antenna input of the radio/tuner. The output of the radio/tuner then provides a signal reflecting the setting of the control knobs. This signal is used to control the amplifier.

Abstract: An apparatus capable of performing an automatic tape ejection operation in an automobile-installed video cassette recorder comprises an input power detector for detecting an electrical disconnection between an automobile battery and the video cassette recorder when the automobile is turned off, a system controller, upon detecting the disconnection of the electrical power, for generating a switching control signal for a predetermined time period and a switch circuit, in response to the switching control signal, for electrically connecting the battery to a deck mechanism for the predetermined time period in which the tape ejection operation is executed.

Abstract: An automobile recorder allows a user to continuously record the contents of radio programs onto a solid state memory and then transfer selected portions to a cassette tape or recordable compact disk. The auto recorder prevents unnecessary wear on the tape mechanism and tape by requiring use of these only when the tape transfer is made or the tape is being played back. A second optional AM/FM tuner allows the user to listen to one program while recording another program onto the solid state memory. Extended recording capability is provided.

Abstract: An electronic equipment controlled by a plurality of operation buttons, for example, for reproducing audio signal of a disc player, an audio tape recorder, a tuner, or an amplifier, etc. provides control circuits. A plurality of operation buttons are composed of: basic operation buttons for basic action of the electronic equipment, such as starting or stopping reproducing of the reproducing unit of a recording medium, music selection, and tuner selection and switching volume adjusting operation of an amplifier; additional function buttons associated with basic operation, such as random reproducing of a reproducing unit of a recording medium, adjusting of equalizing characteristic, and switching adjusting operation of tone quality or sound field, etc.. The control circuits are provided in the electronic equipment, and in the normal operation mode, switches overall operation in response to operation of both basic action and additional function buttons.

Abstract: A control unit for an automobile audio system including a transmitting device mounted in correspondence with a shifter for permitting an operator to have easy access to the control unit so that control over the operation of the audio system may be obtained while the operator's hand is supported on the shifter.

Abstract: A car loading audio instrument adapted to be used by being connected to a car battery so that an electric power is supplied to the audio instrument and comprising a circuit breaker to break a circuit in a non-reversible manner in accordance with detection of robbery of the car loading audio instrument so that it is prohibited from being operated. A robbery is detected when two power lines supplying power are disconnected from each other.

Abstract: A compact solid state representative communication device allows the user to record, transmit, receive, play and erase messages or sounds. The communication device includes a record switch for recording messages to be sent, a transmit switch for sending messages, a play switch for playing recorded and received messages, a microphone for converting sound waves into electrical signals indicative of sound waves, an audio recorder for recording and playing back electrical signals indicative of sound waves, a transmitter for transmitting electromagnetic signals (preferably but not necessarily IR signals) indicative of sound waves, a receiver for receiving electromagnetic signals indicative of sound waves and a speaker for converting electrical signals into sound waves, all encased in a single compact housing. The communication device is small enough and light enough to be worn on the clothing of a person.

Abstract: A radio system has a detector detecting a required radio program, and supplying an instruction signal when the program is detected thereby. In accordance with the instruction signal, a recording unit begins to record the program.

Abstract: A car loading audio instrument adapted to be used by being connected to a car battery so that an electric power is supplied to the audio instrument and comprising a circuit breaker to break a circuit in a non-reversible manner in accordance with detection of robbery of the car loading audio instrument so that it is prohibited from being operated.

Abstract: A cassette tape recorder including input key means having one or more keys, each key capable of representing a plurality of functions selectable by the user to be performed. The control means provides a control signal in response to at least one of the functions selected by the user and the recorder performs the selected function in response to the control signal. Since each key can represent several functions, it will make the recorder more simple in construction, inexpensive and easy to operate.