EP4064720A1 - Modular audio playback device - Google Patents

Abstract

Modular equipment comprising a main module (1) comprising:- a main loudspeaker (2);- main communication components (4) arranged to implement at least one wireless communication;- power supply components (5 ) arranged to acquire a main power supply from the mains; - main assembly means arranged to assemble the main module with one or more additional modules; - a processing component (7) arranged to detect whether the main module is assembled with a first additional module comprising one or more microphones and, if this is the case, to activate at least one additional function implemented by the equipment and using the microphone or microphones (12).

Description

The invention relates to the field of audio reproduction equipment, and in particular connected speakers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A connected speaker (or smart speaker, in English) conventionally comprises a set of microphones and can be used to implement the voice recognition method of a virtual personal assistant.

It is possible that some users will be seduced by a particular model of such a connected speaker, without being interested in voice recognition. In this case, the set of microphones is useless and can even dissuade users from acquiring the connected speaker, for example because they consider that the cost of the connected speaker is too high compared to the use they do, or because the presence of the microphones bothers them.

Some users want to use the microphone array to take advantage of voice recognition, and plan to position their connected speaker in a low position, for example on the floor or on a table, desk, sideboard, etc. It is therefore preferable for these users, to optimize the capture of sound signals, that the set of microphones be positioned on an upper part of the connected speaker. Of course, when users plan to position their connected speaker in a high position, for example at the top of a shelf, it is preferable that the microphone array be positioned on a lower part of the speaker.

Some users intend their connected speaker for "sedentary" use, the connected speaker therefore remaining powered by the mains, while others prefer nomadic use, so that the presence of a battery is necessary.

It is therefore very complicated for the user to find a connected speaker that precisely meets their expectations, both in terms of available features and cost. The choice is all the more complicated in that it is irrevocable: when the user has chosen a product, it is generally impossible for him to add new functionalities to this product.

It is also complicated for the manufacturer to define the products he designs. The most obvious solution to satisfy all users would be to market many different products, each with distinct functionalities (a “simple speaker” product, a “connected speaker” product, a product with battery, etc.). However, this solution has a significant cost because the manufacture of each product requires a separate production line. Moreover, this solution makes it impossible to extend the uses on a product that does not include the optional functions (for example the set of microphones or the battery).

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The subject of the invention is audio reproduction equipment adapted to the wishes of a large majority of users and inexpensive to manufacture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

• des composants de restitution audio comprenant un haut-parleur principal ;
• des composants de communication principaux agencés pour mettre en œuvre au moins une communication sans fil ;
• des composants d'alimentation agencés pour acquérir une alimentation principale provenant du secteur et pour alimenter l'équipement à partir de l'alimentation principale ;
• des moyens d'assemblage principaux agencés pour assembler le module principal avec le ou les modules additionnels ;
• un composant de traitement agencé pour détecter si le module principal est assemblé avec le premier module additionnel et, si c'est le cas, pour activer au moins une fonction additionnelle mise en œuvre par l'équipement et utilisant le ou les microphones.

With a view to achieving this aim, a modular audio reproduction equipment is proposed comprising a main module arranged to operate individually or well by being assembled with one or more additional modules comprising a first additional module comprising at least one microphone, the main module comprising:

• audio reproduction components comprising a main loudspeaker;
• main communication components arranged to implement at least one wireless communication;
• power components arranged to acquire main power from the mains and to power the equipment from the main power;
• main assembly means arranged to assemble the main module with the additional module or modules;
• a processing component arranged to detect whether the main module is assembled with the first additional module and, if so, to activate at least one additional function implemented by the equipment and using the microphone or microphones.

The main module is therefore the basic module of the different versions of the modular audio reproduction equipment according to the invention, which is for example a speaker.

The user who wishes to have equipment without a microphone therefore does not obtain the first additional module, whereas the user who wishes to implement a voice recognition method obtains said first additional module.

The main assembly means may optionally allow the first additional module to be positioned at will in an upper position above the main module or in a lower position below the main module, so that the user can adapt the equipment in its low position (on a table) or high (on a shelf) to optimize the capture made by the microphones.

The first additional module may include a battery, optionally detachable from the microphones, so that the user can configure his enclosure for sedentary use or for nomadic use.

The equipment according to the invention therefore makes it possible to satisfy the wishes of a large majority of users.

All these different configurations have in common the same basic module, which is the main module, which significantly reduces the design costs but also the manufacturing costs of the equipment. A relatively small number of additional modules makes it possible to meet the expectations of a very large number of users, which improves the attractiveness of the equipment and again reduces its cost.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the first additional module further comprising a battery arranged to power the equipment when the latter is not connected to the mains.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the first additional module further comprising a battery arranged to power the first additional module when the latter is not connected to the mains.

Equipment is also proposed as previously described, the first additional module comprising a first unit comprising the microphone(s) and a second unit comprising the battery, the first unit and the second unit being detachable and each able to be assembled individually with the main module .

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the processing component being arranged to detect whether or not the main module is connected to the mains, and to adapt a power supply profile of the equipment as a function of the result of this detection.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the first additional module comprising first communication components arranged to communicate with the main communication components of the main module via wireless communication, the main module being arranged for, when the main module and the first additional module are not assembled, receiving via wireless communication audio signals produced by the microphone(s) of the first additional module to implement the additional function(s).

Equipment is also proposed as previously described, in which the main assembly means are arranged to allow the choice of positioning the first additional module in an upper position above the main module or in a lower position below the module major.

Equipment is also proposed as previously described, in which one of the upper positions or lower positions is an occultation position in which the microphone or microphones of the first additional module are occulted.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the main assembly means comprising a lip which extends over a perimeter of the main module, the first additional module comprising a shoulder defining a recess on a perimeter of the first additional module, the module main and first module additional being arranged so that, when the main module and the first additional module are assembled according to the occultation position, the lip is positioned in the recess and occults the microphone or microphones which are then acoustically insulated from the outside.

Equipment is also proposed as previously described, in which pins, arranged to implement an electrical connection between the main module and the first additional module, extend from an internal surface of the lip.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, in which the additional modules comprise a second additional module comprising one or more additional loudspeakers.

Equipment is also proposed as previously described, in which the main loudspeaker or loudspeakers comprise a midrange loudspeaker and/or a treble loudspeaker and in which the additional loudspeaker or loudspeakers comprise a loudspeaker. serious.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the processing component being arranged to detect whether or not the main module is assembled with the second additional module and to adapt an audio profile applied by the equipment as a function of the result of this detection.

Equipment as previously described is also proposed, the equipment being an enclosure.

• de détecter si le module principal est assemblé avec le premier module additionnel ;
• si c'est le cas, d'activer la ou les fonctions additionnelles mises en œuvre par l'équipement et utilisant le ou les microphones.

A management method is also proposed, implemented in equipment as described above and comprising the steps:

• to detect whether the main module is assembled with the first additional module;
• if so, activate the function(s) additional functions implemented by the equipment and using the microphone(s).

• d'activer la communication sans fil pour tenter de détecter le premier module additionnel ;
• si le premier module additionnel est détecté, de connecter le module principal avec le premier module additionnel et d'activer la ou les fonctions additionnelles mises en œuvre par l'équipement et utilisant le ou les microphones.

We also propose a management method as described above, further comprising the steps, if the main module is not assembled with the first additional module:

• to activate the wireless communication to attempt to detect the first additional module;
• if the first additional module is detected, connecting the main module with the first additional module and activating the additional function or functions implemented by the equipment and using the microphone or microphones.

• de détecter si le module principal est assemblé ou non avec un deuxième module additionnel comprenant un haut-parleur additionnel ;
• d'adapter un profil audio appliqué par l'équipement en fonction du résultat de cette détection.

In addition, a management method is proposed as previously described, further comprising the steps:

• to detect whether or not the main module is assembled with a second additional module comprising an additional loudspeaker;
• to adapt an audio profile applied by the equipment according to the result of this detection.

• de détecter si le module principal est relié ou non au secteur pour son alimentation ;
• d'adapter un profil d'alimentation de l'équipement en fonction du résultat de cette détection.

In addition, a management method is proposed as previously described, further comprising the steps:

• to detect whether or not the main module is connected to the mains for its power supply;
• to adapt a power supply profile of the equipment according to the result of this detection.

A computer program is also proposed comprising instructions which lead the processing component of the main module of the equipment as previously described to execute the steps of the management method as previously described.

We also offer a readable recording medium by computer, on which the computer program as previously described is recorded.

The invention will be better understood in the light of the following description of a particular non-limiting mode of implementation of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

• [Fig. 1] la figure 1 représente un module principal et un premier module additionnel selon un premier mode de réalisation d'une enceinte connectée qui n'est pas assemblée ;
• [Fig. 2] la figure 2 représente l'enceinte connectée assemblée, le module principal étant positionné au-dessus puis au-dessous du premier module additionnel ;
• [Fig. 3] la figure 3 représente une liaison Bluetooth entre le module principal et le premier module additionnel lorsque ceux-ci ne sont pas assemblés ;
• [Fig. 4] la figure 4 représente l'enceinte connectée assemblée, le module principal étant positionné au-dessous puis au-dessus d'un premier module additionnel selon un deuxième mode de réalisation ;
• [Fig. 5] la figure 5 représente l'enceinte connectée non assemblée, le module principal étant positionné au-dessus d'un premier module additionnel selon un troisième mode de réalisation ;
• [Fig. 6] la figure 6 représente un module principal et un deuxième module additionnel d'une enceinte qui n'est pas assemblée ;
• [Fig. 7] la figure 7 représente l'enceinte assemblée, le module principal étant tout d'abord positionné au-dessus du deuxième module additionnel qui lui-même est positionné au-dessus du premier module additionnel, puis le premier module additionnel étant positionné au-dessus du module principal qui lui-même est positionné au-dessus du deuxième module additionnel ;
• [Fig. 8] la figure 8 est un graphique comprenant une courbe de réponse en fréquence d'une enceinte comprenant uniquement le module principal ;
• [Fig. 9] la figure 9 est un graphique comprenant une courbe de réponse en fréquence du module principal et du deuxième module additionnel lorsqu'ils sont utilisés conjointement ; [Fig. 10] la figure 10 représente différentes configurations possibles de l'enceinte ;
• [Fig. 11] la figure 11 représente l'enceinte connectée non assemblée, le module principal étant positionné au-dessous du premier module additionnel ;
• [Fig. 12] la figure 12 est une vue de dessus de l'un des modules ;
• [Fig. 13] la figure 13 représente des étapes du procédé de gestion selon l'invention.

Reference will be made to the appended drawings, including:

• [ Fig. 1 ] the figure 1 represents a main module and a first additional module according to a first embodiment of a connected speaker which is not assembled;
• [ Fig. 2 ] the figure 2 represents the assembled connected speaker, the main module being positioned above then below the first additional module;
• [ Fig. 3 ] the picture 3 represents a Bluetooth link between the main module and the first additional module when these are not assembled;
• [ Fig. 4 ] the figure 4 represents the assembled connected speaker, the main module being positioned below then above a first additional module according to a second embodiment;
• [ Fig. 5 ] the figure 5 represents the unassembled connected speaker, the main module being positioned above a first additional module according to a third embodiment;
• [ Fig. 6 ] the figure 6 represents a main module and a second additional module of an enclosure which is not assembled;
• [ Fig. 7 ] the figure 7 represents the assembled enclosure, the main module being first positioned above the second additional module which itself is positioned above of the first additional module, then the first additional module being positioned above the main module which itself is positioned above the second additional module;
• [ Fig. 8 ] the figure 8 is a graph comprising a frequency response curve of a loudspeaker comprising only the main module;
• [ Fig. 9 ] the figure 9 is a graph comprising a frequency response curve of the main module and the second additional module when they are used together; [ Fig. 10 ] the figure 10 represents different possible configurations of the enclosure;
• [ Fig. 11 ] the figure 11 represents the unassembled connected speaker, the main module being positioned below the first additional module;
• [ Fig. 12 ] the figure 12 is a top view of one of the modules;
• [ Fig. 13 ] the figure 13 represents steps of the management method according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the figure 1 , the modular audio reproduction equipment according to the invention is here a speaker. The enclosure firstly comprises a main module 1.

The main module 1 is in itself a separate piece of equipment, which can operate individually or even by being assembled with one or more additional modules.

The main module 1 here has a cylindrical shape, although other shapes are possible, such as for example a right prism.

The main module 1 firstly comprises audio reproduction components. The audio reproduction components include at least one loudspeaker main, in this case a plurality of main loudspeakers 2, and electronic components 3 arranged to process and transmit audio signals emitted to the main loudspeakers 2 which restore them by generating sound signals.

The main loudspeakers 2 here comprise at least one treble loudspeaker and at least one mid-range loudspeaker.

By midrange loudspeaker, it is understood a loudspeaker arranged to reproduce intermediate frequency sounds, that is to say sounds whose frequency or frequencies are between low frequencies and high frequencies (i.e. that is to say between the low sounds and the high sounds).

By treble loudspeaker is meant a loudspeaker arranged to reproduce high-frequency sounds. A tweeter can also be called by the English word tweeter.

The electronic components 3 notably include amplifiers. The electronic components 3 form several audio channels each connected to one or more main loudspeakers 2.

The main module 1 further comprises main communication components 4 arranged to implement at least one wireless communication. Here, the 4 main communication components can communicate via Wi-Fi technology and via Bluetooth links.

The main module 1 further includes power supply components 5 arranged to acquire power from the mains. 5 power components can be connected directly to the mains via a cable. Main module 1 can also acquire the power supply from the mains by being mounted on a base itself connected to the mains via a cable.

The main module 1 also comprises an interaction interface 6 comprising buttons and/or or sensitive surfaces allowing the interaction and/or the physical control of the main module 1 and of the enclosure. Here, the interaction interface 6 only includes play / pause buttons, but it could include other sensitive buttons or surfaces, for example prev / next buttons.

The main module 1 further comprises main assembly means arranged to assemble the main module 1 with one or more additional modules. It is therefore possible to attach one or more additional modules to the main module 1 to improve the enclosure which can then perform additional functions.

The main module 1 further comprises a processing component 7 which is suitable for executing program instructions to implement the management method which will be described below. The program is stored in a memory module 8 comprising one or more memories of different type (volatile, non-volatile) and connected or integrated in the processing component 7. The processing component 7 is for example a processor, a microcontroller, a DSP (for Digital Signal Processor, which can be translated as “digital signal processor”), or else a programmable logic circuit such as an FPGA (for Field Programmable Gate Arrays ) or an ASIC (for Application Specific Integrated Circuit ) .

The processing component 7 detects that the main module 1 is connected to one or more additional modules and, if so, activates the additional functionalities associated with said additional modules. By “detects” is understood to mean that the processing component 7 itself directly detects the connection or the disconnection, or else that it acquires detection signals allowing it to determine whether there is a connection or disconnection.

The main module 1 can therefore be used alone, in which case it acts as a Wi-Fi/ Bluetooth speaker. The main module 1 can also be assembled with one or more additional modules.

Among these additional modules, there is a first additional module 10. A first additional module according to a first embodiment 10a is visible on the figure 1 .

The first additional module 10a here also has a cylindrical shape, of the same radius as that of the main module 1.

The first additional module 10a firstly comprises first assembly means, complementary to the main assembly means, for assembling the first additional module 10a to the main module 1.

The first additional module 10a further comprises a first unit 11 comprising at least one microphone, in this case a plurality of microphones 12. The microphones 12 are positioned on the periphery of the first additional module 10a (that is to say on the outer side surface of the cylinder). More precisely, the orifices which make it possible to put the sensitive parts of the microphones 12 and the outside in communication open out at the level of the periphery of the first additional module 10a.

The first unit 11 further comprises electronic components 13 arranged to acquire and process received audio signals produced by the microphones 12 when the latter pick up sound signals.

The electronic components 13 notably comprise one or more analog-digital converters which transform the analog signals produced by the microphones 12 into digital signals.

The first unit 11 also comprises first communication components 14 which implement at least one wireless communication, here a Bluetooth link.

The first additional module 10a also comprises a second unit 16 comprising a battery. According to a particular embodiment, the battery can power the enclosure when the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a are assembled, and the main module 1 is not connected to the mains.

When the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a are assembled, the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a are nested together to form a one-piece connected enclosure. The speaker can then implement the additional functions that can be performed on a connected speaker and require the presence of microphones. The additional functions here include a voice recognition method and a hands-free telephony function.

It is noted that the first additional module 10a could optionally be used alone, as a Bluetooth A2DP microphone to be associated with a Bluetooth device (computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.).

It is also noted that the battery can be provided only to power the first additional module 10a when the latter is not assembled with the main module 1 and is therefore not connected to the mains.

With reference to the figure 2 , the main assembly means make it possible to position the first additional module 10a in a lower position below the main module 1 (to the left of the figure 2 ) or in a higher position above the main module 1 (to the right of the figure 2 ).

Thus, the first additional module 10a and therefore the microphones 12 can be positioned in an ideal position depending on where the enclosure is placed. If the enclosure is placed in a high position relative to the user, for example on a high piece of furniture such as a shelf, the user will position the first additional module 10a in the lower position. If the enclosure is placed in a low position relative to the user, for example on the ground or on a low piece of furniture such as a table or a sideboard, the user will position the first additional module 10a in the lower position.

Note that the position of the microphones 12 on the periphery of the first unit 11 here allows these two audio capture positions (high and low).

The presence of the battery and of the first communication components 14 make it possible to easily move the first additional module 10a according to the convenience of the user, in order to make the most of the functionalities of the voice assistant.

The main module 1 and the first additional module 10a can thus be connected and cooperate without being assembled.

So, with reference to the picture 3 , when the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a are not assembled, the main module 1 can receive received audio signals produced by the microphones 12 of the first unit 11 of the first additional module 10a to implement the additional functions using the microphones 12. The first additional module 10a is therefore remote, and the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a use a Bluetooth link 18 to communicate.

The main module 1 can thus be placed in a semi-fixed position, for example on a shelf, while the first additional module 10a can be positioned as close as possible to the user, for example on a table, a kitchen worktop, an office, etc. This improves voice pick-up in an environment containing noise, or when the main module 10a is not in direct proximity (but can all the same be heard from the position of the user).

The first additional module 10a can also for example be placed on a table with participants around it, for conference type functions.

When the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a are assembled, it is possible to make the microphones 12 concealable in order to meet the wishes of certain users.

One of the upper position or lower position of the first additional module 10a is an occultation position in which the microphones 12 are occulted and therefore acoustically isolated from the outside, so that they cannot capture sound signals coming from the outside.

It is noted that the link between the main module 1 and the first additional module 10a is preferably made via Bluetooth (for example by the A2DP protocol), but can also be made via Wi-Fi. The Bluetooth link, by using of a standard audio protocol, has the advantage of possibly being able to use the first additional module 10a as a microphone associated with a another device (such as a PC), or another microphone module associated with the main module 1.

With reference to the figure 4 , the microphones 12 of the first additional module according to a second embodiment 10b are here positioned on an upper face of the first additional module 10b.

The concealment position of the first additional module 10b is therefore here the lower position.

When the first additional module 10b is positioned in the upper position (on the left on the figure 4 ), the orifices of the microphones 12 open outwards and the microphones 12 capture the sound signals coming from the outside. On the other hand, when the first additional module 10b is positioned in the lower position (on the right on the figure 4 ), the microphones 12 are obscured and acoustically insulated from the outside.

This design makes it possible to use the microphones 12 (and therefore to implement the additional functions using the microphones 12) when the main module 1 and the first additional module 10b are assembled, but also when the first additional module 10b is remote.

The user can also, if he wishes to obscure the microphones 12, continue to benefit from the “nomadic” functions of the enclosure, the battery still being present.

With reference to the figure 5 , the microphones 12 of a first additional module according to a third embodiment 10c are again positioned on the periphery of the first additional module 10c.

It can be seen that the main assembly means of the main module 1 comprise a lip 20 which extends over the lower perimeter of the main module 1, and a shoulder defining a recess 21 at the level of the upper perimeter of the main module 1.

The first additional module 10c comprises for its part first assembly means also comprising a lip 22 which extends over the lower periphery of the first additional module 10c, and a shoulder defining a recess 23 at the level of the upper periphery of the first module additional 10c.

When the main module 1 and the first additional module 10c are assembled in the hidden position, that is to say when the first additional module 10c is in the lower position, the lip 20 of the main module 1 is positioned in the disbursement 23 and obscures the microphone 12 which are then acoustically isolated from the outside.

With reference to the figure 6 , the additional modules also include a second additional module 25 comprising a second loudspeaker 26. The second loudspeaker 26 is a bass loudspeaker.

By bass loudspeaker is meant a loudspeaker arranged to reproduce low-frequency sounds. A bass speaker can also be called by the English words boomer or woofer.

The second additional module 25 here also has a cylindrical shape, of the same radius as that of the main module 1.

Thus, the basic sound quality reproduced by the loudspeaker can be improved by adding an optional woofer.

The enclosure can thus be assembled in accordance with the figure 7 .

When the enclosure must be positioned in a high position, on a shelf for example, the main module 1 is in the upper position, the first additional module 10 is in the lower position, and the second additional module 25 is between the main module 1 and the first additional module 10. On the contrary, when the enclosure must be positioned in a low position, on a table for example, the first additional module 10 is in the upper position, the second additional module 25 is is in the lower position, and the main module 1 is between the first additional module 10 and the second additional module 25.

Advantageously, provision is made for the enclosure to be able to apply different audio profiles depending on whether or not the second additional module 25 (and therefore the bass speaker 26) is present.

The processing component 7 of the main module 1 detects that the main module 1 is assembled or not with the second additional module 25, and adapts the audio profile of the enclosure (and in particular of the main module 1) according to the result of the detection .

For example, the frequency response of the main module 1 could be reduced when the second additional module 25 is present, in order to take advantage, over the range of frequencies reproducible both by the main module 1 and by the second additional module 25, of the better quality audio reproduction which is offered by the second additional module 25.

Thus, we see on the figure 8 the curve 27 of the frequency response of the enclosure when the second module additional 25 is not present (i.e. the frequency response of the main module 1).

We see on the figure 9 the curve 28 of the frequency response of the main module 1 and the curve 29 of the frequency response of the second additional module 25 when the main module 1 and the second additional module 25 are assembled. The frequency response of main module 1 is reduced in the bass range.

Advantageously, the first unit 11 of the first additional module 10 (comprising the microphones 12) and the second unit 16 of the first additional module 10 (comprising the battery) are detachable and can each be assembled individually with the main module 1.

The combinations of the figure 10 thus become possible.

As the first unit 11 and the second unit 16 of the first additional module 10 are detachable, the first unit 11 can be assembled with the main module 1 (without the second unit 16) to obtain a connected speaker 30 capable of implementing the functions additional ones requiring microphones 12.

The second unit 16 can also be assembled with the main module 1 (without the first unit 11) to obtain a mobile enclosure 31.

The first unit 11 and the second unit 16 can also be detached and both assembled with the main module 1 to obtain a portable connected speaker 32. It is also possible to use two second units 16, that is to say two batteries, to obtain a portable connected speaker 33 with doubled autonomy.

In this way, the cost of the battery can be avoided when the loudspeaker is systematically used in "sedentary" configuration (connected to the mains), or on the contrary improve the autonomy of the speaker in "nomadic" configuration by using one or more batteries.

We are now interested in the different connections between the modules when they are assembled.

We refer to the figure 11 .

The electrical connection between the main module 1 and the first additional module 10 allows power supply transfer and data transfer.

Power transfer consists either of transferring from main module 1 to first additional module 10 a first power supply current under a first power supply voltage (produced by the mains) when main module 1 is connected to the mains, or to transfer from the first additional module 10 to the main module 1 a second supply current under a second supply voltage (produced by the battery) when the main module 1 is not connected to the mains.

Data transfer consists in transferring various data between the main module 1 and the first additional module 10 and, in particular, received audio signals produced by the microphones 12 of the first additional module 10 to the main module 1.

The electrical connection can be made in different ways.

It is possible to use spring connectors, of the Pogo connector type. In this case, the spring pins 35 ( Pogo pins) are for example placed on the top of each module, and the corresponding “flat” contact surfaces are placed on the underside of each module.

The reverse configuration (contact surfaces on the top, and spring pins on the bottom) is of course possible. The reverse configuration improves the aesthetics of the enclosure.

Other solutions are possible, such as for example the use of flexible connectors that fit into the sockets located at the rear of the modules. This could for example be USB-C type connectors, allowing both power and data to be transported.

It is also possible to provide each module with one or more windings to implement inductive couplings making it possible to transfer power and data between the modules. The windings can be made by high frequency printed circuit tracks and by low frequency coils.

Of course, what has just been said is valid for the electrical connection between each module.

The mechanical connection of the different modules is achieved by interlocking. We will speak in the following of “lower module” and “upper module” to designate two modules assembled with one another and one above the other.

As we have seen, a shoulder defining a recess 21, 23 is here present on the upper periphery of each module 1, 10. A lip 20, 22 is present on the lower periphery of each module 1, 10. When the two modules are nested, the lip of the upper module is positioned in the recess of the lower module.

• le bon centrage des modules lorsqu'ils sont empilés ;
• l'amortissement des potentielles vibrations entre les modules (du fait des haut-parleurs) ;
• la stabilité/immobilité sur la surface sur laquelle est posée l'ensemble ;
• l'étanchéité acoustique (si nécessaire) entre les modules (et notamment l'occultation des microphones 12, comme cela a été vu plus tôt).

Advantageously, each lip is made of a compressible material, for example rubber. The lip thus ensures:

• proper centering of modules when stacked;
• the damping of potential vibrations between the modules (due to the loudspeakers);
• the stability/immobility on the surface on which the assembly is placed;
• the acoustic seal (if necessary) between the modules (and in particular the concealment of the microphones 12, as seen earlier).

Thus, the upper module can be the main module 1 and the lower module the first additional module (see figure 5 ). In this case, when the main module 1 and the first additional module 10 are assembled according to the concealment position, the lip 20 of the main module 1 is positioned in the recess 23 of the first additional module 10 and conceals the microphones 12 which are then acoustically isolated from the outside.

A visual alignment mark 36 is present on each module, to help the user position the modules. A system of magnets (located on the top and bottom of the modules) can help to obtain the correct alignment. A nesting system with mechanical locking can also be used.

Many other mechanical solutions are possible. For example, the development visible on the figure 12 can be used. This development makes it possible to improve both the positioning, the interlocking, and the aesthetics of the enclosure.

A flat area 38 is formed on a rear part of a lower module, around the recess. The module in question is any of the modules previously presented (for example the first additional module 10).

The lip of the upper module (for example the main module 1) also comprises an additional flat zone. The flat areas make it possible to guarantee the correct positioning and the correct relative orientation of the modules without the need to resort to magnets.

Note that the Pogo pins 39 can be positioned in the flat area 38 and extend vertically from said flat area 38. The Pogo pins 39 are therefore not located on the upper face of the enclosure, which improves its aesthetics.

On the figure 12 , the Pogo pins 39 are positioned on an upper part of the lower module, and therefore the corresponding contact surfaces are positioned on a lower part of the upper module, in this case on an internal surface of the lip. The reverse configuration is possible (retractable pins on the upper part of the modules and contact surfaces on the lower part of the modules), in which case the retractable pins extend from the inner surface of the upper module lip and are not even visible on the back of the enclosure, which improves its aesthetics.

We are now interested in the management of the different states of the enclosure, which depend on the additional modules assembled with the main module 1.

It is the processing component 7 of the main module 1 which manages these different states. It is relevant to implement the management method in the main module 1, because it is the only module necessary for the operation of the enclosure, the additional modules being optional.

The management method makes it possible to use different audio profiles depending on whether or not the second additional module 25 (and therefore the bass speaker 26) is used.

The management method also makes it possible to use different power supply profiles depending on whether or not the enclosure is connected to the mains, and depending on the presence or absence of the battery.

The management method also makes it possible to activate the additional functions using the microphones 12 if these are present.

We now describe in more detail, with reference to the figure 13 , the management method implemented by the processing component 7.

The management method begins with an initialization step E0.

The processing component 7 then detects whether the main module 1 is assembled or not with the second additional module 25, in order to determine the audio equalization profile to be adopted (step E1).

Of course, in the case where the second module 25 is not provided by the manufacturer (and therefore is not manufactured), this first detection step E1 is not carried out.

The detection of the second additional module 25 can be carried out in different ways.

For example, the detection of the second additional module 25 can consist in detecting whether data is circulating on the pins dedicated to the transfer of data of the electrical connection. In this case, it will be advantageous to use a communication bus (for example USB or I2C), in order to allow discovery and identification of the modules.

The detection can also consist in measuring the impedance at the level of pins on which an analog audio signal circulates intended for the bass loudspeaker 26 of the second additional module 25. Verification of the impedance of this connection makes it possible to carry out the detection of the presence of the second additional module 25, without this implying that the second additional module 25 is able to communicate on a digital bus. This reduces the cost of the second additional module 25.

The processing component 7 then adapts the audio profile applied by the speaker as a function of the result of this detection.

If the processing component 7 does not detect the presence of the second additional module 25, the processing component 7 activates the audio profile adapted to the absence of a bass loudspeaker (step E2). Otherwise, the processing component 7 activates the audio profile adapted to the presence of the bass speaker 26 (step E3).

Steps E1 to E3 therefore concern the management of the second additional module 25 (and therefore of the bass loudspeaker 26).

Then, in step E4, the processing component 7 detects whether or not the main module 1 is connected to the mains for its power supply. Optionally, the processing component 7 also detects whether or not the main module 1 is assembled with the first additional module 10 (or at least with the second unit 16 of the first additional module 10), to detect whether the battery is indeed present.

The processing component 7 then adapts the power supply profile of the enclosure according to the result of this detection.

If the processing component 7 detects that the main module 1 is not connected to the mains, the processing component 7 activates the power supply profile adapted to the presence of the battery (step E5). Otherwise, the processing component 7 activates the power supply profile suitable for power supply via the mains (step E6).

The power supply profile adapted to the presence of the battery includes the implementation of certain adjustments consisting, for example, in limiting the acoustic power, reducing the delay before switching off/standby of the speaker, activating advanced functions of energy saving Wi-Fi, etc.

In the case where the enclosure is connected to the mains, but the battery is present, the processing component 7 also activates the recharging of the battery.

Steps E4 to E6 therefore relate to power management.

It is noted that steps E1 to E3 and E4 to E6 could perfectly well be reversed.

The processing component 7 then detects whether the main module 1 is assembled with the first additional module 10 (or at least with the first unit 11 of the first additional module 10): step E7.

If so, this means that the microphones 12 are present locally. The processing component 7 therefore activates the additional functions using the microphones 12 (step E8). The activation is done according to the configuration of the speaker or according to user parameters.

The detection of the first additional module 10 (or of the first unit 11) can be carried out in different ways.

For example, the detection of the first additional module 10 can consist in detecting whether data is circulating on the pins dedicated to the data transfer of the electrical link. In this case, it will be advantageous to use a communication bus (for example USB or I2C), in order to allow discovery and identification of the modules.

If the microphones 12 are not locally present, the processing component 7 of the main module 1 activates the Bluetooth link to attempt to detect the first additional module 10: step E9.

The processing component 7 checks that the main module 1 has detected the first additional module 10 (and therefore the presence of the microphones): step E10.

If this is the case, the processing component 7 connects the main module 1 with the first additional module 10 and activates the additional functions using the microphones 12 (step E8).

If the microphones 12 are not detected, the detection continues in the background during nominal use of the enclosure (the first additional module 10 can be switched on subsequently): step E11.

Steps E7 to E10 therefore concern the management of the microphones.

Note that it is perfectly possible for the main module 1 to communicate with the microphones via a Bluetooth link even if the microphones 12 are locally present. The electrical connection between the main module 1 and the first additional module 10 is then only used for the power supply, without data transfer. In this case, the “local detection” test of the microphones of step E7 is not carried out, and the detection of the microphones 12 is carried out through the Bluetooth link.

Advantageously, the enclosure is designed to accept and manage hot insertion and removal of the modules additional. Thus, during nominal operation of the enclosure, the processing component 7 attempts to detect the connection or disconnection of an additional module (step E12). If a module change is detected, the enclosure reconfigures itself based on the module change. The detection steps E1 to E10, which were carried out at the start of the system, are then carried out again, as well as the resulting parameter/profile adjustments.

In the case of the insertion/removal of the second additional module 25, the audio reproduction continues with the appropriate equalization profile.

If AC power is disconnected, the speaker goes into the “on battery” power profile. Conversely, if mains power is connected, the product switches to the "mains" power profile.

In the case of (local) insertion/removal or in the case of connection/disconnection through the Bluetooth link of the first additional module 10, the functions linked to the microphones 12 are activated/deactivated.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described but encompasses any variant falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

The modular audio reproduction equipment according to the invention is not necessarily a speaker, but can be any electronic equipment incorporating one or more loudspeakers and one or more microphones: residential gateway, decoder box, voice assistant, etc.

It is of course possible to provide additional modules different from those described here. The first additional module could for example include a bass speaker. The additional modules could implement other additional functions: improved audio reproduction, classic functions of connected objects, etc.

The communication between the modules, when they are not assembled, can use any type of technology (in particular radio or optical).

Claims (19)

Modular audio reproduction equipment comprising a main module (1) and one or more additional modules comprising a first additional module (10), the main module being arranged to operate individually or else by being assembled with the additional module or modules, the first module additional (10) comprising at least one microphone (12), the main module comprising: - audio reproduction components comprising a main loudspeaker (2); - main communication components (4) arranged to implement at least one wireless communication; - power components (5) arranged to acquire main power from the mains and to power the equipment from the main power; - Main assembly means arranged to assemble the main module with the additional module(s); - a processing component (7) arranged to detect whether the main module is assembled with the first additional module and, if so, to activate at least one additional function implemented by the equipment and using the microphones (12); the first additional module (10) further comprising a battery arranged to power the equipment when the latter is not connected to the mains and the main module and the first additional module are assembled. Equipment according to claim 1, the battery being arranged to power the first additional module when the latter is not connected to the mains and is not assembled with the main module. Equipment according to one of claims 1 or 2, the first additional module (10) comprising a first unit (11) comprising the microphone(s) and a second unit (16) comprising the battery, the first unit and the second unit being detachable and each able to be assembled individually with the main module. Equipment according to one of the preceding claims, the processing component (7) being arranged to detect whether or not the main module is connected to the mains, and to adapt a power supply profile of the equipment according to the result of this detection . Equipment according to one of the preceding claims, the first additional module (10) comprising first communication components (14) arranged to communicate with the main communication components (4) of the main module (1) via wireless communication, the main module (1) being arranged for, when the main module (1) and the first additional module (10) are not assembled, to receive via wireless communication audio signals produced by the microphone(s) of the first additional module to put implement the additional function(s). Equipment according to one of the preceding claims, in which the main assembly means are arranged to allow the choice of positioning the first additional module (10) in an upper position above the main module (1) or in a lower position below the main module (1). Equipment according to claim 6, in which one of the upper position or lower position is a muting position in which the microphone(s) of the first additional module (10) are muted. Equipment according to claim 7, the means main assembly assemblies comprising a lip (20) which extends over a perimeter of the main module (1), the first additional module comprising a shoulder defining a recess (23) over a perimeter of the first additional module, the main module and the first additional module being arranged so that, when the main module and the first additional module are assembled according to the occultation position, the lip is positioned in the recess and occults the microphone or microphones which are then acoustically insulated from the outside. Equipment according to claim 8, in which pins, arranged to implement an electrical connection between the main module and the first additional module, extend from an internal surface of the lip. Equipment according to one of the preceding claims, in which the additional modules comprise a second additional module (25) comprising one or more additional loudspeakers (26). Equipment according to claim 10, wherein the main loudspeaker(s) (2) comprise a midrange loudspeaker and/or a treble loudspeaker and in which the additional loudspeaker(s) (26) comprise a high bass speaker. Equipment according to claim 10, the processing component (7) being arranged to detect whether or not the main module is assembled with the second additional module and to adapt an audio profile applied by the equipment according to the result of this detection. Equipment according to one of the preceding claims, the equipment being an enclosure. Management method, implemented in equipment according to one of the preceding claims and comprising the steps : - to detect whether the main module (1) is assembled with the first additional module (10); - if so, to activate the additional function(s) implemented by the equipment and using the microphone(s) (12). Management method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps, if the main module (1) is not assembled with the first additional module (10): - to activate the wireless communication to try to detect the first additional module (10); - if the first additional module (10) is detected, to connect the main module (1) with the first additional module (10) and to activate the additional function(s) implemented by the equipment and using the microphone(s) (12). Management method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps: - to detect whether or not the main module is assembled with a second additional module comprising an additional loudspeaker; - to adapt an audio profile applied by the equipment according to the result of this detection. Management method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps: - to detect whether or not the main module is connected to the mains for its power supply; - to adapt a power supply profile of the equipment according to the result of this detection. Computer program comprising instructions which lead the processing component (7) of the main module (1) of the equipment according to one of Claims 1 to 13 to executing the steps of the management method according to one of claims 14 to 17. A computer-readable recording medium on which the computer program according to claim 18 is recorded.

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