DE102007026542A1 - Device and method for adjusting a sound location of an audio system in the interior of a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (23) and a method (91) for adjusting a sound location of an audio system in an interior of a motor vehicle (1). The device (23) comprises a display device (27), a control unit (25) coupled to the display device (27) which controls a graphical representation on the display device (27), and an operating device coupled to the control unit (25) for detecting User inputs, by means of which two parameters for determining the sound location (31, 47) are adjustable, preferably during adjustment by means of the control unit (25) on a display surface (29) of the display device (27) of the sound location (31 ', 47') graphically wherein the operating device is a value counter (35) and the control unit (25) is designed, after detecting an adjustment of the one of the parameters in a setting mode for the one of the parameters via an value position (37) of the value adjuster (35). automatically to switch to a setting mode for the other of the parameters, which can be detected via a further value position (43) of the value counter (35).

Description

The The invention relates to an apparatus and method for adjusting a sound location of an audio system in an interior of a motor vehicle. The device comprises a display device, one with the display device coupled control unit, which is a graphical representation on the display device controls, and a control unit coupled to the control unit for capturing user input by means of which two parameters for Determination of the sound location are adjustable, preferably during the setting by means of the control unit on a display surface the display device of the sound location is displayed graphically.

Around the occupants of a motor vehicle when using an audio system to allow as pleasant a sound perception as possible, It is common to radiate from the individual speakers To regulate volume so that, for example, an optimal Stereo effect at different locations in the interior of the motor vehicle can be achieved. To set the parameters, this setting enable a sound location to be comfortable, the graphic representation of the sound location is used. The two Parameters that determine the sound location, on the one hand give a volume distribution in the direction of travel, which is referred to as the fader value, and the other a volume distribution transverse to the direction of travel, d. H. left right, which is called Balance.

Out In the prior art it is known to have a balance value and a Set the fader value separately. Finds the setting above the same control instead, so it is in the embodiments required according to the prior art, in addition to one to make a separate selection to determine the parameter to be used current via the control element is adjustable.

From the DE 103 54 492 A1 For example, a method and a device for adjusting a loudspeaker system in a vehicle with an operating device for adjusting the volume of the loudspeaker system as a function of the location in the vehicle are known. The device comprises a display device for graphically representing the location at which the volume is to be set with the operating device, wherein the control device can set a predetermined volume setting at the location represented by the point by moving a point on the display device. For a setting of the parameters balance and fader, there are either two setting keys for each parameter value or a control element which can be controlled in two axes and is for example joystick-like.

in the State of the art are thus a variety of controls or technically complicated controls required to place a sound over two To set parameters.

Of the Invention is based on the object, a method and an apparatus to create a setting of a sound location in one Interior of a vehicle both in terms of an operating procedure is optimized as well as a use of technically simple controls is possible.

The The object is achieved by a device with the features of claim 1 and a method with solved the features of patent claim 6. advantageous Embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims.

aim The invention is in a device of the type mentioned above an operating device sequentially and separated the two To capture parameters for defining the sound location, wherein a switching between the input modes for the two parameters automatically is performed. An advantage is that a simple value counter, in response to an operation by a user specifies a parameter value can be used to capture both parameters. This can either be a control be saved or used a simpler control which can only generate one parameter value. In particular therefore provided for a device mentioned above, that the operating device is a value counter, in particular a Turntable or slider, and the control device is formed is, after detecting a setting of the one parameter in a setting mode for one of the parameters via a Value position of the value value automatically in a setting mode for the other the parameter to switch over another value position of the value writer can be recorded. At a trained as a turntable value adjuster is thus the one parameter over detects a rotational position of the turntable and after detection of the first parameter automatically into a setting mode for changed the other parameter, the other one Rotary position of the turntable is detected. This is it for a user possible, a sound location supported through the graphical representation of the sound location on the display surface easy and reliable with only a single operating device adjust. An additional choice, after setting of one parameter additionally a setting of the other parameter to have to dial, deleted. This is a faster operation and adjustment of the sound location possible with only one operating device.

Of the Value adjuster may have a value depending on one absolute position or a value depending on produce a relative change in position.

at a preferred embodiment of the invention the control unit is a time determination unit that has a rest period determined in which no change in the value of the Valuator has taken place, and designed the control unit is, an order of value as a setting of one of the parameters or the other of the parameters to detect when in the adjustment mode for the corresponding rest period determined by the parameter reached or exceeded a predetermined detection period Has. This means that a user only enters the value stamp in must bring the desired position and according to the specified Acquisition period The value set by the value counter is detected and assigned to the corresponding parameter. A extra entry confirmation action may be at such Embodiment be saved.

Other Embodiments may provide that the value counter is designed to capture an input confirmation action to be able to, and the control unit is designed, the Value position of the operating device as setting the one of Parameter or the other of the parameters to capture, if in the Setting mode for the corresponding parameter via of the value reader an exercised input activity is detected. For a trained as a turntable value counter For example, does it mean that the turntable is so formed is that an actuating action perpendicular to a plane of rotation, in which the rotational position of the turntable is adjustable, detectable is. The control unit is then designed so that the rotational position the operating device as setting the one of the parameters or the other of the parameters is detected when in the setting mode for the corresponding of the parameters by means of the turntable a operated perpendicular to the plane of rotation actuating action is detected.

Around additional actuating actions after a setting of the sound place is unnecessary an embodiment of the invention, that the Control unit is formed, after a detection and the other to switch the parameter to a menu mode. From the menu mode can change to the setting mode of different parameters become. In some embodiments it is provided that the setting mode for the one parameter and the setting mode for the other parameter individually selected from the menu can be, the device then automatically after detecting the one or the other parameter in the setting mode one or the other parameter changes. In other embodiments can be provided that only the selection of a sound location setting mode from the menu mode is possible, which in the Setting mode for which one parameter is changed, of which automatically after the detection of the one parameter in the Setting mode for the other parameter is changed.

Of the Sound location can be both in one embodiment of the venue maximum volume, the location of a volume distribution indicates in space as well as in another embodiment the place of optimal stereo listening. Except in a center of the interior, d. H. in a middle between the speakers, these two points fall apart. In some embodiments it is envisaged that a user can switch over whether a sound setting has the largest point Volume or the point of optimal stereo hearing should set.

at In a preferred embodiment, the one and the other parameters include a balance value and a fader value.

The Features of the method according to the invention have the same advantages as the corresponding features of the invention Device on.

following the invention is based on a preferred embodiment explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. Hereby show:

1 a schematic representation of a motor vehicle with a device for adjusting a sound location of an audio system;

2a - 2f Views of a combination device comprising a freely programmable display area for illustrating a setting of a sound location; and

3 a schematic flow diagram of a method for adjusting the sound location.

In 1 is a motor vehicle 1 shown schematically. In an interior 3 of the motor vehicle 1 are schematic seats 5 - 11 shown as squares. In the corners of the interior 3 are speakers 13 - 19 arranged. A sound radiation of the speakers 13 - 19 is through an audio system 21 controlled. The individual volumes of the speakers 13 - 19 set a sound location 31 stuck in the interior. To adjust the sound location is a device 23 for adjusting the sound location of the audio system 21 intended. The device 23 includes a control unit 25 and a display device connected thereto 27 , The control unit 25 Controls a graphical representation on a display area 29 the display device 27 , On the display surface 29 is the interior 3 shown graphically. Furthermore, the sound location 31 ' shown. To make it easier for the user to recognize, in a preferred embodiment is a crosshair 33 with the representation of the sound place 31 ' connected.

To a setting of the sound place 31 to allow the device 23 a value meter 35 on, which is preferably designed as a turntable. This one is with the control unit 25 coupled. Is the device located 23 in a setting mode for one of the two parameters that the sound location 31 set, for example, a balance value and a fader value, so can by means of the Wertestellers 35 one of the two parameters can be changed. In a preferred embodiment, the graphical representation is adjusted in a timely manner during the setting of the parameters. As a fixed value position, for example, a value indicated by a dash 37 set a balance value 41 (or in another embodiment, a location of optimal stereo hearing with respect to a zinc-right orientation). By means of a time determination unit 39 a rest period is determined, which indicates how long no change in the rotational position of the turntable designed value reader 35 took place. If the rest period exceeds a predetermined acquisition period, the value is calculated as a balance value 41 detected. The device then automatically changes to a setting mode for the other parameter, here a fader value. The turntable will now be in another value position 43 rotated and after a new rest period, which is greater than the detection period, as a fader value 45 detected. This is a new sound place 47 established. In a preferred embodiment, after both parameters have been detected, the device changes to a menu mode.

at In another embodiment it can be provided that the value adjuster additionally an input actuation action can capture, for example, designed as Drehdrück- or rotary puller is. Instead of determining a rest period, capture may occur triggered by an input operation action become.

In 2a to 2e are various representations of a combination instrument, as they result in a setting sequence of a Tonorteinstellung represented. The instrument cluster 51 To summarize next to a speed indicator 53 a speedometer 55 , which are preferably designed as graphical representations on a freely programmable graphical display surface. The speed indicator 53 and the speedometer 55 However, they can be designed as mechanical pointer instruments, in which advantageously further displays, which can be partially freely programmable, are integrated. In a middle 57 of the instrument cluster 51 There is a freely programmable display area 59 , In 2a are on the display area 59 different menu entries 61 . 63 . 64 for sound adjustment of an audio system. In particular, a menu item "balance adjustment" 61 and a menu item "Fadereinstellung" 63 as well as further menu entries 64 from the menu 65 to be selected. Is the menu item "balance adjustment" 61 If you choose, you get to the view 2 B , On the display surface 59 now becomes an interior 67 of the motor vehicle shown schematically. Furthermore, the current sound location 69 represented by a circular ring. The center of the annulus gives the intersection of a crosshair 71 which allows a user an easier orientation.

If a value position of the value counter is changed, for example a balance shifted to the left, then one arrives at the view 2c , After either an input actuation action has been detected or a change in the value position for a rest period greater than a detection period has elapsed, the apparatus enters a spring adjustment mode. This is in 2d shown. Then the value counter is adjusted again to change the fader setting. After a new input operation action or a renewal of a rest period, which is greater than a detection period, the value position of the value adjuster is detected as a new fader value, so that the new sound location is fixed. Then the device switches back to a menu mode as shown in 2a is shown.

In 3 a flowchart of a method for setting a sound location is shown schematically. First, a selection menu is displayed on a display device 92 , Subsequently, a menu selection balance adjustment is detected 93 , Then the device changes to a setting mode "Balance" 97 , When switching to the setting mode Balance, a rest period is set to zero 99 , Subsequently, the value position of a value value is recorded 101 , In a query 103 It is checked whether the value position, ie a manipulated value of the value value, has changed. If this is the case, the display on the display area is adjusted accordingly 105 and the method of setting the idle period equal to zero 99 continued. If the value has not changed, the rest period is increased 107 , In a query 109 it is determined whether the rest period is greater than a detection period is. If this is not the case, the value position is determined by the method step 101 continued. If the rest period is greater than the acquisition period, the value is recorded as a balance value 111 , Then the device automatically switches to the "Fader" setting mode 113 , First, the rest period is set equal to zero again 115 , Subsequently, the value date is recorded 117 and in a query 119 Determines that the value date has changed. If the value has changed, the representation of the sound location on the display surface is adjusted accordingly 121 and then with the method step setting the rest period equal to zero 115 continued. If, however, the value has not changed, the rest period is increased 123 , In a query 125 it is determined whether the rest period is greater than a detection period. If this is not the case, then the method step 117 Acquisition of the value position continued. If, on the other hand, the rest period is greater than the acquisition period, the value order is recorded as a fader value 127 , Thereafter, the device automatically changes to a menu mode 129 ,

For The skilled person it turns out that the determination of the rest period linked process steps can be omitted if to terminate an input, an input action action is detected. The query whether the rest period is greater is a collection period, can then by a query in which is checked whether an input operation action is present. Still other embodiments may combine the embodiments just described, so that both have an input action as well as over a period of time, an automatic switching between the one setting mode and the other setting mode resolved can be.

The Representation of the interior may be in other embodiments alternatively or additionally on a display device take place, which is arranged in a center console. This offers the advantage that facilitates operation by a passenger becomes.

at Embodiments in which a trained as a touch screen Display device, the value adjuster may be virtual Control be designed. Optionally, a representation of the interior in addition to this display device respectively. It is also possible in such cases another display device, for example the one representing the instrument cluster, for a display of the interior and the sound location representation to use and the virtual value reader on the example arranged in the center console, designed as a touch screen display device train.

The described embodiments are merely exemplary. Other embodiments may be described Use features in different combinations.

1

motor vehicle

3

inner space

5-11

seats

13-19

speaker

21

Audio system

23

contraption to set a sound location

25

control unit

27

display device

29

display area

31 31 '

original Klangort

33

crosshairs

35

values plate

37

first values position

39

Time determination unit

41

balance value

43

Further values position

45

fader value

47 47 '

new Klangort

51

instrument cluster

53

Tachometer

55

Speedometer

57

center

59

free programmable display area

61

menu item balance adjustment

63

menu item fader settings

64

Further menu items

65

menu

67

inner space

69

Klangort

71

crosshairs

91

method to set a sound location

93-129

steps

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• - DE 10354492 A1 [0004]

Claims (10)

Contraption ( 23 ) for setting a sound location ( 31 . 47 ) of an audio system ( 21 ) in an interior of a motor vehicle ( 1 ) comprising a display device ( 27 ), one with the display device ( 27 ) coupled control unit ( 25 ) showing a graphical representation on the display device ( 27 ) and one with the control unit ( 25 ) coupled to detect user inputs, by means of which two parameters for determining the sound location are adjustable, preferably during the adjustment by means of the control unit ( 25 ) on a display surface ( 29 ) of the display device ( 27 ) the sound location ( 31 ' . 47 ' ) is shown graphically, characterized in that the operating device is a value counter ( 35 ) and the control unit ( 25 ) is configured, after detecting a setting of the one of the parameters in a setting mode for the one of the parameters via an value position ( 37 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) automatically to a setting mode for the other one of the parameters to switch to another value position ( 43 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) is detectable. Contraption ( 23 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit ( 25 ) a time determination unit ( 39 ), which determines a rest period in which no change in the value position ( 37 ; 43 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) has taken place, and the control unit ( 25 ), an asset valuation ( 37 ; 43 ) as the setting of one of the parameters or the other of the parameters when the idle period determined in the setting mode for the corresponding one of the parameters has reached or exceeded a predetermined detection period. Contraption ( 23 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the value adjuster ( 35 ) is designed such that an actuating action perpendicular to a value plane in which the value position ( 37 ; 43 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) is adjustable, detectable, and the control unit ( 25 ), the value date ( 37 ; 43 ) of the operating device as the setting of one of the parameters or the other of the parameters, if in the setting mode for the corresponding one of the parameters by means of the value adjuster ( 35 ) detects an action taken perpendicular to the value plane actuating action. Contraption ( 23 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit ( 25 ) is configured to switch to a menu mode after detecting the one and the other of the parameters. Contraption ( 23 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the one and the other of the parameters have a balance value ( 41 ) and a fader value ( 45 ) are. Procedure ( 91 ) for setting a sound location ( 31 . 47 ) of an audio system ( 21 ) in an interior ( 3 ) of a motor vehicle ( 1 ), in which by means of a control unit ( 25 ) a graphical representation of a display device ( 27 ) and at a setting of the sound location ( 31 . 47 ) for determining the sound location ( 31 . 47 ) two parameters are detected by means of an operating device, wherein preferably during the setting of the sound location ( 31 ' . 47 ' ) graphically on a display surface ( 29 ) of the display device ( 27 ), characterized in that the operating device is a value counter ( 35 ) and in a setting mode for setting the one of the parameters an item of value ( 37 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) and is automatically changed into a setting mode for the other of the parameters, in which another value position ( 43 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) is detected to set the other one of the parameters. Procedure ( 91 ) according to claim 6, characterized in that by means of a time determination unit ( 39 ) a rest period is determined in which no change in the value position ( 37 ; 43 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) and the value date ( 37 ; 43 ) is detected as a setting of one of the parameters or the other of the parameters when the idle period determined in the setting mode for the corresponding one of the parameters has reached or exceeded a predetermined detection period. Procedure ( 91 ) according to one of claims 6 or 7, characterized in that the value position ( 37 ; 43 ) of the operating device is detected as the setting of one of the parameters or of the other of the parameters, if in the setting mode for the corresponding one of the parameters by means of the value adjuster ( 35 ) one perpendicular to a value plane in which the value position ( 37 ; 43 ) of the value reader ( 35 ) is adjustable, applied actuating action is detected. Procedure ( 91 ) according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that after detecting the one and the other of the parameters in a menu mode is switched. Procedure ( 91 ) according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that by means of one and the other of the parameters a balance value ( 41 ) and a fader value ( 45 ).