Vehicle Patents (Class 381/86)
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Patent number: 8270640Abstract: The present invention is a sports bike-type motorcycle with a sound system deployed in major part discretely in the cowling behind the rider. The speakers are incorporated into existing features in the front of the bike, such as in the rearview mirrors. To compensate for the smaller battery of sportbikes but still deliver peak power for dynamic sound, a capacitor in electrical connection with the battery and amplifier provide effective audio response. The sound system, being incorporated into existing structural features in the sports bike, cannot be observed by passers-by and is therefore less vulnerable to theft or vandalism. Also, the profile and aerodynamics, and therefore performance characteristics of the sportsbike, are not changed or compromised by the integration of the sound system within the existing structural features of a sportsbike.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2010Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Inventor: Richie D. Barnes
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Patent number: 8270627Abstract: An adaptive noise control system is deployed in a box-like structure positioned within the transfer path along which the noise is being transmitted from the source of the generated noise to the receiver of the noise in the passenger compartment of an automobile. The adaptive noise control system is can be deployed in the dual bulkhead of the vehicle dashboard to provide a constrained volume within which engine noise can be controlled. The adaptive control system generates a mathematical model of the noise to be controlled in response to the acoustic environment identified by sensors placed within the engine compartment. Sensors in the passenger compartment define the effectiveness of the noise control system. The controller is operable to update the mathematical model in response to the changes in the acoustic environment, thus providing the appropriate acoustic response within the dual bulkhead plenum for control of noise along the transfer path.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Takeshi Abe, Robert G. Rebandt, II, Ming-te Cheng
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Patent number: 8264856Abstract: A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture integrally forms a resilient beam portion adjacent an edge thereof carrying a grounding pad. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Chris R. Snider, Edgar Glenn Hassler
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Patent number: 8259962Abstract: An audio system configured to fade audio outputs and method thereof are provided, wherein the audio system includes a first speaker, a second speaker, a low-frequency output speaker, wherein the low-frequency output speaker is proximate the at least one second speaker, and a receiver configured to alter a signal communicated to the first speaker, the second speaker, and the low-frequency output speaker, such that the audio outputs thereof are faded. The audio system further includes a filter in communication between the receiver and the first speaker, wherein the filter is configured to limit a frequency of the signal communicated from the receiver to the first speaker, and a processor configured to alter a frequency limit of the filter, such that a low frequency portion of the signal is received by the first speaker, and a low-frequency output of the first speaker is increased approximately proportionately to the fade of the second speaker, the low-frequency output speaker, or a combination thereof.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2010Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael Thomas Augustyn, Kavya H. Narayan
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Patent number: 8259952Abstract: A vehicle entertainment system and method that alternately configures an input of the entertainment system as a differential input that is decoupled from a ground point, or as ground referenced input that is coupled to a ground point. A noise detector determines a noise signal value for a ground switch module that alternately changes a switch state between a coupled state that couples the common connection to the ground point, and a decoupled state that decouples the common connection from the ground point, based upon the noise signal value being greater than a threshold.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2010Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Michael Thomas Augustyn, Dennis L. Kinkead, B. Neal Rhodes
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Patent number: 8259958Abstract: An engine sound control apparatus capable of arranging a sound of a frequency that is lower than the fundamental-order frequency of the engine. The engine sound control apparatus detects the frequency of the engine sound and generates a sound signal of a frequency that is in accordance with a control signal and outputting the sound signal generated by the oscillator. Through the interaction between the sound generated by the apparatus and the engine sound, occupants in the passenger compartment will perceive a sound of a frequency that is equal to the difference between the generated sound and the fundamental-order sound. This yields a sound that is lower in frequency than the fundamental-order sound without actually generating a sound of a frequency that is lower than that of the fundamental-order sound.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2006Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yasuhiko Nishimura
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Patent number: 8254594Abstract: Disclosed herein is an in-vehicle apparatus having an apparatus body, a loading slot formed on the front surface of the apparatus body, a front panel arranged in front of the apparatus body, and a drive mechanism for operatively connecting the front panel to the apparatus body so as to move the front panel. The front panel is movable by the drive mechanism to a normal position where the front panel is arranged in parallel to the front surface of the apparatus body, a left projected position where a left side portion of the front panel is projected frontward, a right projected position where a right side portion of the apparatus body is projected frontward, and an open position where the front panel is inclined frontward so as to open a loading slot formed on the front surface of the apparatus body for loading a recording medium.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2007Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Kenji Yamada, Takehiko Tanaka
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Publication number: 20120213384Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle-mounted audio device including a casing, a tuner, an audio output unit, a housing chamber, an opening of the housing chamber, a housing, a lock mechanism, and a casing connector. The tuner is disposed in the casing. The audio output unit is for amplifying and outputting an audio signal supplied from the tuner. The housing chamber is defined in the casing. The opening is defined in a front panel of the casing. The housing is for accommodating a portable audio device. The housing is removably housed in the housing chamber through the opening. The lock mechanism is for selectively locking the housing in the housing chamber and unlocking the housing from the housing chamber. The casing connector is electrically connected to the audio output unit and disposed in the housing for disengageably connecting to an audio signal output connector of the portable audio device.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 7, 2011Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: Sony CorporationInventor: Katsuhiko Iwade
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Patent number: 8249259Abstract: In a voice intelligibility enhancement system that controls a gain of a voice signal based on noise power and voice power of the voice signal generated by a voice signal generation unit, it is detected whether the voice power is equal to or greater than a predetermined level, noise power output when the voice power is less than the predetermined level is measured and stored, noise power to be output when the voice power exceeds the predetermined level is estimated to be the stored noise power, and gain of a voice signal is controlled on the basis of the voice power and the estimated noise power.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Alpine Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Toru Marumoto, Nozomu Saito
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Publication number: 20120207321Abstract: A speaker device includes a static part, a driving part and a vibrating body. The vibrating body includes a plurality of diaphragms supported by the static part. A vibration direction converter part is provided between a first diaphragm and a second diaphragm facing each other in a plurality of the diaphragms, and connects the first diaphragm with the second diaphragm such that the first diaphragm and the second diaphragm synchronously move toward and away from each other. A part of the vibration direction converter part disposed in the proximity of the static part is supported by the static part, and a part of the vibration direction converter part disposed in the proximity of the driving part is supported by the driving part.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 1, 2010Publication date: August 16, 2012Applicants: TOHOKU PIONEER CORPORATION, PIONEER CORPORATIONInventors: Kenichi Oshima, Shinichi Hayasaka, Yoji Ogata, Kodai Nagasawa, Minoru Horigome, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Shunichi Takahashi, Yasuhisa Abe, Yasuhiro Saso, Toshihiro Hikichi, Takuei Nagasawa, Tempei Katsuta
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Patent number: 8244308Abstract: A helmet communication device is composed primarily of a first communication device, a second communication device and a switching circuit device, such that when a motorcycle driver is driving the motorcycle, the driver can choose to use the first communication device to answer a cellular phone with a wired or blue-tooth technology, or to converse with a back seat passenger through the second communication device, by a control of the switching circuit device, so as to improve driving safety and to improve convenience in answering the cellular phone or dialoging with the back seat passenger.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Inventors: Jian-Ming Chen, Mei-Ling Kuo
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Patent number: 8243954Abstract: A system for regulating the volume and frequency content of audio producing devices, the system includes: one or more noise making objects (NMO) configured with individual sound control devices in electrical communication with a noise management server and one or more audio producing devices configured with individual sound control devices; wherein the sound control devices have electronic logic processing, storage, and communication capabilities; wherein the noise management server utilize the sound control devices to: determine whether the NMO are producing noise in the audible range of one or more audio producing devices; determine a noise characteristic of the one or more NMO; command the one or more NMO to send the noise characteristic to the one or more audio producing devices; and wherein the volume and frequency content of audio produced by the one or more audio producing devices is adjusted in response to the received noise characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2008Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Andrew Aaron, Dimitri Kanevsky, Edward E. Kelley, Bhuvana Ramabhadran
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Patent number: 8238570Abstract: Apparatus and method for determining an operating state of a personal acoustic device by receiving signal from first and second movement sensors indicating movement detected by each, wherein the first movement sensor is disposed on a portion of the personal acoustic device structured to be worn on a user's head to enable the first movement sensors to detect movements of a user's head when the personal acoustic device is in position on the user's head such that a casing of the personal acoustic device is adjacent an ear of the user, and wherein the second movement sensor is disposed on a portion of the personal acoustic device structure to not be worn on a user's head.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2010Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Bose CorporationInventors: Edwin C. Johnson, Jr., Benjamin D. Burge
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Patent number: 8238571Abstract: An audiovisual system including a circuit coupled to the first input and having an adjustable sensitivity control and a detector configured to detect the presence of a signal from the second input. The sensitivity control is responsive to the detector to set the sensitivity for a first input sensitivity level when the detector detects the presence of the signal from the second input and to set the sensitivity for a second input sensitivity level when the detector does not detect the signal from the second input.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2008Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.Inventor: Luke S. Blaszczynski
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Patent number: 8224012Abstract: A microphone assembly includes one or more transducers positioned in a housing. Circuitry is coupled to the transducer for outputting an electrical signal such that the microphone has a main lobe directed forwardly and attenuates signals originating from the sides and/or rear. The transducers can advantageously include multiple transducers, which, with the circuit, produce a desired sensitivity pattern. The microphone assembly can be employed in a vehicle accessory.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2006Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Alan R Watson, Robert C Knapp, Robert R Turnbull, William R Spence, G. Bruce Poe, Michael A Bryson
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Patent number: 8217767Abstract: A vehicular horn device of an existing electromagnetic type is used as a dynamic speaker so as to generate a false engine sound. The shortage of a low-pitched sound in a parametric speaker device is complemented with a false engine sound which the vehicular horn device generates. Thereby, without need of mounting a large-sized dynamic speaker such as a woofer in a vehicle, a false engine sound is generated so as to model for a real engine sound. In addition, as the vehicle approaches a pedestrian, a sound tone of the false engine sound which the pedestrian hears changes, enabling the pedestrian to easily notice the approach or presence of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2011Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Toshiaki Nakayama
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Patent number: 8213631Abstract: A sound system that may be used for a vehicle is provided. The system includes a head unit configured for generating an electrical signal, and a relay is configured to receive an electrical signal from the head unit. An interior speaker is carried by the vehicle and is configured for receiving an electrical signal from the relay in order to produce sound. An exterior speaker is carried by the vehicle and is configured for receiving an electrical signal from the relay in order to produce sound. A switch is configured to be opened and closed in order to trip the relay between a first state in which the interior speaker produces sound and the exterior speaker does not produce sound and a second state in which the interior speaker does not produce sound and the exterior speaker produces sound. A method of controlling a sound system is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2007Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Inventor: Tucker H. Couvillon, IV
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Publication number: 20120163621Abstract: Embodiments of the proposed invention preferably provide systems and methods for an improved aftermarket automobile audio amplifier that is easy to install while integrating and improving OEM functionality. Embodiments of the invention preferably directly connect to preexisting OEM wiring and hardware. Embodiments of the invention preferably preserve OEM system functionality and allow for integration of additional auxiliary inputs. A digital signal processing module preferably adjusts an output volume to ensure that auxiliary inputs are audible to a vehicle occupant at an appropriate and comfortable volume level. Therefore, vehicle OEM safety chimes or third party navigational commands may be output to a vehicle occupant at an appropriate volume level irrespective of the presence, absence or volume level of other audio signal outputs. Furthermore, the direct connection to preexisting OEM wiring and hardware preferably allows for both easy installation and easy removal of embodiments of the current invention.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2011Publication date: June 28, 2012Inventors: Brett D. Riggs, Sam W. Grove, Nathaniel Lee Wincek
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Patent number: 8208655Abstract: A wireless speaker and mounting system for use with a resonating surface of an automobile includes a wireless speaker mechanism including a vibrator, the wireless speaker mechanism configured to receive and convert a wireless signal representative of sound from a separate wireless electronic device into vibrations transmitted by vibrator to the resonating surface of the automobile for creating sound waves by the resonating surface; and a mounting mechanism configured to directly mount the wireless speaker mechanism to the resonating surface of the automobile.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2007Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Assignee: KYOCERA CorporationInventors: David K. J. Kim, Peter On
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Publication number: 20120155672Abstract: A method for generating engine acoustic emissions including the steps of providing a loudspeaker configuration (100) based upon the configuration of said engine, and feeding the said loudspeaker configuration (100) with signals for providing desired engine acoustic emission. Also a device, a computer program and a computer program product for performing the method.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Inventors: Ragnar Glav, Manfred Klopotek Von Glowczewski, Adam Wikström, Ola Jönssson, Bror Tingvall, Roger Johnsson
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Patent number: 8204244Abstract: A spare wheel well cover includes an electro-acoustic transducer coupled to an opening in the spare wheel well cover. The spare wheel well cover and loudspeaker are arranged to cooperate with a spare wheel well to form an acoustic volume when the spare wheel well cover is secured to the spare wheel well.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2008Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Bose CorporationInventors: Christopher Ludwig, Bradford Subat
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Patent number: 8204245Abstract: A sound projecting bumper may include a vehicle bumper configured to be attached to a vehicle, the bumper comprising a plurality of uprights and at least one generally horizontal member, the bumper further comprising a horn for emitting sound, the horn comprising a driver, a cone, a speaker and a diaphragm for producing the sound, and wiring to connect the bumper device to the vehicle's electrical system. The horn may be configured to focus sound particularly forward of the vehicle. The driver may be attached to one of the uprights, and the bumper may include a second driver attached to a second one of the uprights. The horn may be generally aligned with one of the uprights, or the horn may be formed in a generally horizontal member. The bumper may further include a channel in the generally horizontal member, wherein the channel extends generally along a portion of the generally horizontal member, turning to form the horn.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2008Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Lund Industries, Inc.Inventors: Michael W. Tobin, Paul A. Lundberg
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Patent number: 8204243Abstract: A vehicle enunciator includes a storage device having sound data, a vehicle speed portion, an accelerator portion, and at least one speaker. The vehicle enunciator may be configured or attached to a vehicle, such as an electric car. The vehicle speed portion detects the speed of a vehicle, while the accelerator portion detects the position of the accelerator pedal of the vehicle. Using the outputs from the vehicle speed portion and accelerator portion, the sound data from the storage device is adjusted with regards to frequency and amplitude, respectively. At least one speaker then produces sound based upon the adjusted sound data.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Inventor: Steven L. Smith
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Publication number: 20120148066Abstract: Microphones are provided at an air inlet of the engine and a vehicle-cabin-side wall surface of an engine room, and engine sounds are picked up. The engine sound is processed by a signal processing section, and the processed engine sound is output from a speaker provided in a vehicle cabin. The signal processing section is provided with a filter which simulates a sound insulation characteristic of the vehicle cabin and a transformation section for processing the engine sound according to driving condition. A spectrum transformation characteristic of the transformation section is determined according to values detected by a vehicle speed sensor, an engine speed sensor, and an accelerator depression sensor, and a spectrum of the engine sound is transformed by means of specification of the spectrum transformation characteristic, thereby enhancing an engine sound.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 16, 2012Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: Yamaha CorporationInventors: Yoshikazu HONJI, Yasuo Yoshioka, Tetsu Kobayashi
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Patent number: 8199961Abstract: A speaker device (100) includes a speaker unit (2) including a diaphragm (6); a windshield cover (3) covering the speaker unit and including a sound emitting unit (130) emitting a sound produced by the speaker unit; and a cabinet (5) connected to a bottom of the windshield cover, and supporting the speaker unit so as to form an angle equal to or greater than 0 degree and equal to or smaller than 90 degree between a vibration direction X of the diaphragm and the sound emitting unit.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: JVC Kenwood CorporationInventors: Manabu Omoda, Masahiro Watanabe
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Publication number: 20120140945Abstract: Apparatus for providing different audio signals in a plurality of zones of a single enclosed space, comprising loudspeakers associated with, and positioned in, each zone to radiate an audio output, means capable of supplying a different audio signal to the loudspeakers in each zone, signal processing means comprising means for dividing the audio frequency spectrum of each audio signal into higher and lower parts, means for directing the higher frequencies radiated in their respective zones, and means for varying the phase, and delay of the lower frequencies to tend to cancel sound radiation outside their respective zones.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: NEW TRANSDUCERS LIMITEDInventor: Neil John Harris
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Publication number: 20120140933Abstract: An aircraft audio panel includes a plurality of audio inputs each configured for receiving audio communications from an audio source; a plurality of audio outputs each configured for outputting the audio communications to audio equipment in the aircraft; selecting circuitry for selecting the audio communications between the audio inputs and the audio outputs; a single selector for permitting selection of one of the audio inputs or audio outputs for adjustment; and a single audio controller for permitting adjustment of an audio characteristic of the selected audio input or audio output. The audio panel may also include an audio characteristic indicator for indicating an audio characteristic of the selected audio input or audio output. The selecting circuitry may also implement a routing mode in which a user may first initiate the routing mode, then select one of the audio inputs for routing, and then select any one of the audio outputs for receiving audio communications from the selected audio input.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: GARMIN INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Charles Gregory Sherwood, Luke E. Bogner, Joseph E. Gepner, Tyler O. Vrooman, Timothy W. James
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Publication number: 20120140934Abstract: An aircraft audio panel includes a plurality of audio inputs each configured for receiving audio communications from an audio source; a plurality of audio outputs each configured for outputting the audio communications to audio equipment in the aircraft; selecting circuitry for selecting the audio communications between the audio inputs and the audio outputs; a single selector for permitting selection of one of the audio inputs or audio outputs for adjustment; and a single audio controller for permitting adjustment of an audio characteristic of the selected audio input or audio output. The audio panel may also include an audio characteristic indicator for indicating an audio characteristic of the selected audio input or audio output. The selecting circuitry may also implement a routing mode in which a user may first initiate the routing mode, then select one of the audio inputs for routing, and then select any one of the audio outputs for receiving audio communications from the selected audio input.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2010Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: GARMIN INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Charles Gregory Sherwood, Luke E. Bogner, Joseph E. Gepner, Tyler O. Vrooman, Timothy W. James
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Patent number: 8195316Abstract: An audio apparatus includes an input unit for inputting stereo signals in which multi-channel surround-sound signals are mixed in accordance with a predetermined algorithm and a parameter indicating encoded contents of the algorithm, a surround-sound signal generator for generating left-side surround-sound signals and right-side surround-sound signals by decorrelating left-side signals and right-side signals contained in the stereo signals, and a controller for controlling the decorrelation performed by the surround-sound signal generator based on the parameter.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2008Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Alpine Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Noriyuki Takashima
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Patent number: 8194879Abstract: The objective of the present invention is to efficiently and inexpensively mass-produce a sound insulator for a vehicle which is light in weight and has excellent sound insulating properties. For this purpose, the ultra-light sound insulator of the present invention is composed of a felt single sheet 3 having a vehicle interior side surface 1 and a vehicle exterior side surface 2 and being thermoformed of cotton fibers and binder fibers which are tangled and contacted and jointed to each other in a random manner. The ratio of the stiffness of the vehicle interior side surface 1 to that of the vehicle exterior side surface 2 is set to be in a range of 1.1 to 10. The single sheet 3 also has an area of gradually-decreasing stiffness 4 that spreads over at least one part of the area between the vehicle interior side surface 1 and the vehicle exterior side surface 2.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2006Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignees: Takehiro Co., Ltd., Toyota Boshoku Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masaki Ishikawa, Youhei Ishikawa, Sohei Matsuyama, Hideyuki Mori
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Publication number: 20120134506Abstract: A wireless audio source integrated into a host bus of a vehicle includes a transmitter module for wirelessly transmitting signals received from a connected portable audio player to a receiver module connected to the host bus. The host bus links to other multimedia devices, such as to the vehicle's radio and speakers, thereby enabling the audio content to be reproduced over the speakers. In one aspect, the user is able to control the volume and related functions of the audio content using the standard radio controls. In other aspects, a portable wireless transceiver is disclosed wherein an occupant of the vehicle can transmit and receive multimedia data to and from a wireless transceiver coupled to the host bus. Multimedia and other devices connected to the host bus can thereby send and receive signals to and from the portable wireless transceiver.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 11, 2012Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: SCOSCHE INDUSTRIES, INC.Inventors: Jack DeBiasio, Roger Alves
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Patent number: 8189825Abstract: Vehicle including an arrangement for controlling audio reception by occupants of a passenger compartment includes a frame defining an interior, at least one seat in the interior defining a plurality of seating positions, and a sound generating system for generating different audio sounds for each seating position. The sound generating system utilizes hypersonic sound, and may be an entertainment system which delivers music or other audio content to the occupants. A monitoring system determines the presence and/or position of occupants in the seating positions relative to the sound generating system. The sound generating system for each seating position may then be automatically adjustable based on the determined presence and/or position of the occupant in the seating position such that different sounds are audible to each occupant.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2007Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Inventor: David S. Breed
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Patent number: 8184820Abstract: A noise control system is directed to the path along which the noise is transmitted from the source of the noise being generated to the receiver of the noise in the passenger compartment of an automotive vehicle. The noise control system is deployed in a box structure, such as the dual bulkhead of the dashboard of the vehicle, to provide a constrained volume within which engine noise can be controlled. The dual bulkhead plenum houses an active noise control apparatus, such as a speaker or a vibrating device, between the bulkheads to be operable with a control algorithm to generate sound that can control the noise or vibrations generated by the engine. The plenum can also be treated with passive noise control materials, such as viscoelastic damping materials, acoustical foam or heavy vinyl barrier and foam to block airborne sound and vibrations, in addition to the active noise control.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2006Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Takeshi Abe, Robert G. Rebandt, II, Ming-te Cheng
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Patent number: 8184825Abstract: An interface device for interconnecting fixed controls of a vehicle to electronic devices. The interface device is capable of receiving control signals from fixed controls, such as steering wheel controls, backseat controls, handlebar controls, and the like, and then transmitting corresponding control signals to the electronic devices. In one aspect, the device is programmable such that the interface device emits signals corresponding to the same signals that would be emitted from a handheld remote control sold in conjunction with the different electronic devices. In one embodiment, the device is an interface between the fixed controls and a replacement stereo receiver. In another embodiment, the device is capable of recognizing spoken voice commands and generating corresponding IR signals in order to control the electronic devices. In still another embodiment, the device is an interface between the fixed controls and multiple electronic devices, such as an audio and video component.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2010Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: AAMP of Florida, Inc.Inventor: Brett D. Riggs
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Publication number: 20120121113Abstract: A system for directing sound in a vehicle includes a passenger selector, a controller, a pattern generator and a speaker array. The passenger selector is configured to generate a direction signal based on a selection of at least one passenger in the vehicle. The controller is configured to generate a pattern signal based on the direction signal. The pattern generator is configured to receive unpatterned audio data and to generate patterned audio data based on the pattern signal. The speaker array is configured to receive the patterned audio data and to generate a directed sound field based on the patterned audio data such that the directed sound field is directed toward the at least one selected passenger.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 16, 2010Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: National Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Yunhong Li
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Patent number: 8180065Abstract: A window assembly for a vehicle includes a window panel (14), an actuating assembly (24) and a seal (22). The frame portion (16) partially surrounds a perimeter of the window panel and leaves a free perimeter portion (14c) of the window panel (14) at least partially free. The actuating assembly (24) is positioned at or near the free perimeter portion (14c) of the window panel (14) and is operated to vibrate the window panel. The seal (22) is disposed along the free perimeter portion to substantially seal the window panel relative to the vehicle panel while allowing movement of the window panel in response to the actuating assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.Inventor: Darin J. Snider
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Patent number: 8179234Abstract: A sound generation apparatus for an electric vehicle that is being operated by a driver comprising: a sound generation circuit attached to a wheel of the electric vehicle; Faraday generators for supplying pulses of electrical current within the circuit while the wheels of the vehicle are rotating; a battery for supplying battery power within the circuit; a pulse activated power controller that is activated upon the receipt of an initial pulse form one of the Faraday generators and controls the supply of battery power within the circuit; and a programmed microcontroller that uses the battery power to simulate a motor sound for the electric vehicle and uses additional pulses from the Faraday generators to determine whether the vehicle is accelerating, decelerating or moving in reverse and, based upon its state of motion, modifies the simulated motor sound.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Atwood Bell, LLCInventor: Dennis Atwood
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Patent number: 8180066Abstract: A system and method of transmitting audio signals. Frequency modulated carrier signals that each have an audio signal are mixed. The mixed signal is converted into a low voltage signal into which a feed voltage is coupled. The coupled signal is transmitted through a single line of a transmission cable to an audio signal infrared transmitter unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Bernd Thiele, Reinhold Schaef
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Publication number: 20120114135Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular automotive multimedia and telematic extension unit and head unit. In one embodiment, the present invention is an extension unit including a storage unit storing an application of an external personal electronic device, a processor connected to the storage unit, and a first connection unit connected to the storage unit and configured to be connected to a head unit in an automobile.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2012Publication date: May 10, 2012Applicant: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Matthew J. Boulia
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Publication number: 20120114136Abstract: A speaker device has a diaphragm, a static part vibratably supporting the diaphragm in a vibration direction and a driving part applying vibration to the diaphragm in response to an audio signal. The driving part is provided at the static part. The driving part includes a magnetic circuit forming a magnetic gap in a direction different from the vibration direction of the diaphragm, a voice coil vibrating along the magnetic gap, and a vibration direction converter part direction-converting the vibration of the voice coil and transmitting the vibration to the diaphragm. The vibration direction converter part includes a link body angle-converting a link part formed between the voice coil and the diaphragm. The static part includes an outer peripheral frame part surrounding the diaphragm and a bridge part bridging the inside of the outer peripheral frame part.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2009Publication date: May 10, 2012Applicants: TOHOKU PIONEER CORPORATION, PIONEER CORPORATIONInventors: Minoru Horigome, Yasuhisa Abe, Toshihiro Hikichi
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Patent number: 8175279Abstract: A loudspeaker, amplifier, media source, user interface, and mechanical interface are all contained in a single unit. The unit has a first portion configured to mount in a vehicle radio mounting location and a second portion configured to extend significantly outside the vehicle radio mounting location.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2008Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Bose CorporationInventors: Nachiketa Tiwari, George Nichols, Brandon Westley, Christopher Ludwig
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Patent number: 8174376Abstract: A device for state-dependent output of tone sequences in a motor vehicle, which is capable of outputting tone sequences assigned to specific vehicle states and determinable from tone data stored in a memory unit assigned to the motor vehicle, is also capable of directly or indirectly coupling to a computing unit not permanently assigned to the motor vehicle. The set of tone sequences which may be output is changeable as a function of data which may be received from such a computing unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2007Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Stefan Kirmse, Georg Friedrich
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Patent number: 8175303Abstract: A sound field in a vehicle can be further readily and optimally corrected without forcing a user to do troublesome work. As an embodiment of the present invention, a measurement sound emitted through a left speaker or a right speaker at a further position in a view from a driver's listening point that was assumed on the head touching surface of the headrest of the driver's seat or the passenger seat is picked up, with a microphone provided as buried on a front panel of a head unit to be attached to the almost center position between the driver's seat and the passenger seat in the vehicle. And the frequency characteristic of the above sound is corrected, based on a tendency that the frequency characteristic of an audio sound reaching from the left speaker or the right speaker to the microphone is almost approximate to the virtual frequency characteristic of an audio sound that will reach from the left speaker or the right speaker to the driver's listening point assumed on the head touching surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2007Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Tokihiko Sawashi, Yasuyuki Kino, Toshiaki Kobayashi
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Patent number: 8175288Abstract: A media application for providing outputs (e.g., audio outputs) in response to inputs received from an input device is provided. The media application may connect input mechanisms of an input device with parameters of channel strips (e.g., which may define output sounds) using an intermediate screen object. The media application may first assign an input mechanism to a screen object, and separately map a screen object to a channel strip parameter. The media application may map a screen object to several channel strips simultaneously such that, based on the value of the screen object, the volume of each of the several channel strips changes. The media application may provide a graphical representation of available channel strips using layers. As the media application accesses a channel strip, the appearance of the portion of the layer associated with the channel strip may change.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Gerhard Lengeling, Markus Fritze, Chris Moulios
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Publication number: 20120106752Abstract: A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The major components and subassemblies self-ground by establishing an interference fit with exposed, resilient, embossed portions of wire mesh.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2012Publication date: May 3, 2012Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventor: EDGAR GLENN HASSLER
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Patent number: 8170227Abstract: A noise control device includes: four or more noise detectors each for detecting a plurality of noises arriving thereat, and outputting the noises as a noise signal; a control speaker for radiating, to a control point, a control sound based on each noise signal; and a filter section for signal-processing noise signals from the noise detectors by using filter coefficients which respectively correspond to the four or more noise detectors and which are set such that the control sound from the control speaker reduces the plurality of noises arriving at the control point, and for adding up all the signal-processed noise signals, and for outputting a resultant signal to the control speaker. The control point and the control speaker are provided within a polyhedral-shaped space whose apexes are placement positions of the noise detectors.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventor: Hiroyuki Kano
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Patent number: 8170232Abstract: The present invention is equipped with a USB interface 7 for being connected to a portable music player that is an external device, a browser button 27, a rotary encoder button 26, a back button 28, CPU 31 for acquiring a content list CL from the portable music player, RAM 33 for storing the content list CL acquired by the CPU 31, and a LED processing section 42 for changing how the rotary encoder button 26 illuminates to encourage the next operation at a time when the browse button 27 is operated. Accordingly, when searching pieces of music content stored in the portable music player that is an external device, one can unknowingly understand how to operate, thereby providing good operability even for searching pieces of music content of the external portable music player.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Yoko Kitahara, Fumihisa Mizuochi, Takuma Higo, Takaharu Fujii, Masaru Kataoka, Nobuo Ozawa, Tatsuya Yamazaki
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Publication number: 20120093335Abstract: Provided is a simple connection path through which a peripheral device connects to a screen display or speaker of an external device. A signal converting apparatus using a faking file includes: a connection unit connected with the external device; a signal reception unit receiving a digital or analog signal from the peripheral device via wired or wireless communication; and a control unit transmitting a faking file corresponding to the signal to the external device through the connection unit when the signal reception unit receives the signal from the external device, the faking file including one or both of audio data and video data.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2010Publication date: April 19, 2012Inventors: Sung Ill Jung, Jin Hwan Jung
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Patent number: 8160266Abstract: An active vibratory noise control apparatus has a speaker for canceling vibratory noise in the passenger compartment of a vehicle, the speaker being used as a speaker of one of different audio devices that can be installed on the vehicle. Each of the audio devices has a command key switch assembly. When the command key switch assembly is operated to turn off the transistor, a control signal is applied to a switching control circuit in an active vibratory noise control unit, which identifies the audio device installed on the vehicle. The active vibratory noise control unit generates a canceling signal matching characteristics of the speaker of the identified audio device for canceling vibratory noise in the passenger compartment.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignees: Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Panasonic CorporationInventors: Toshio Inoue, Akira Takahashi, Satoru Minowa, Yoshio Nakamura, Masahide Onishi
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Patent number: 8160267Abstract: In order to enable a driver to obtain traffic jam information or to listen to a navigation guidance voice from a car navigation system without interrupting the reproduction of music when a passenger enjoys music reproduced by a CD player and the like through cabin loudspeakers, the present invention provides car audio equipment in which a pair of loudspeakers is disposed on both sides of a headrest of a driver's seat. The equipment processes at a decoder thereof a sound signal from a radio tuner, a car navigation device, a mobile phone and the like selected by a selector using a changeover switch, and the sound signal is reproduced through the loudspeakers.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Akira Sakamoto