RU2400808C2 - System of audio devices integration - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: information technologies.

SUBSTANCE: first connector is electrically connected to automobile stereo system, the second connector is electrically connected to audio device, external relative to automobile stereo system, and the third connector is electrically connected to one or more auxiliary sources of input signal, external relative to specified automobile stereo system and audio device, at the same time interface connected between specified first and second electric connectors for direction of audio signals towards automobile stereo system from audio device, includes microcontroller, which is electrically connected to specified first and second electric connectors, besides specified microcontroller has been previously programmed to perform first pre-programmed part of code for remote control of specified audio device, using automobile stereo system by means of reception of control commands from automobile stereo system via specified first connector in format, which is not compatible to specified audio device, processing of received control command into formatted command compatible with specified audio device, and transfer of this formatted command to specified audio device via specified second connector for its arrangement with specified audio device, also mentioned microcontroller has been previously programmed to perform the second pre-programmed part of code for reception of data from specified audio device via mentioned second connector in format, which is incompatible with automobile stereo system, conversion of received data into formatted data compatible with automobile stereo system, and transfer of specified formatted data into automobile stereo system via the first connector for display with the help of automobile stereo system, and to perform the third previously programmed part of code for changing to one or more auxiliary sources of input signal connected to specified third electric connector.

EFFECT: integration of audio devices external to stereo system installed in automobile with this stereo system.

74 cl, 28 dwg, 2 tbl

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to an audio device integration system. More specifically, the present invention relates to an audio device integration system for integrating aftermarket components such as satellite receivers, CD players, CD changers, MP3 players, digital audio broadcast receivers (DABs, DACs), auxiliary audio sources, etc. n., with car stereo systems installed by the manufacturer (OEM) or being secondary market systems.

State of the art

Car audio systems continue to become increasingly complex, and the number of options available to car buyers is increasing. Previous audio systems offered a simple tuner with amplitude (AM) and / or frequency (FM) modulation, and possibly an analog tape recorder for playing cassettes, 8-track and other types of tapes while driving in a car. Such previous systems were closed with which external devices could not be integrated in a simple manner.

With the advent of advances in digital technology, CD players have been integrated into car audio systems. Initial equipment manufacturers (OEMs) often produce car stereo systems that have CD players and / or CD changers (CD changers) to enable playback of CDs while driving. However, such systems often include proprietary (custom-made) buses and protocols that do not easily integrate aftermarket systems such as satellite receivers (e.g. XM satellite tuners), CD players, CD changers ( CD), MP3 players (players), digital audio broadcasting (DAB) receivers, auxiliary audio sources, etc. Thus, car buyers are often forced to either completely replace the OEM audio system or use the same one for the life of the vehicle or the duration of the ownership. Even if the OEM radio is replaced with a secondary market radio, the secondary market radio also often does not work with an external device.

A specific problem with the integration of aftermarket audio systems with the existing car stereo system is that the signals generated by the car stereo system have a proprietary (individual) format and cannot be processed by the aftermarket system. Additionally, the signals generated by this secondary market system also have a proprietary format that is not recognizable by the car stereo. Thus, in order to integrate aftermarket systems with a car stereo system, it is necessary to convert signals between such systems.

One or more expansion modules are known in the art for OEM car stereo systems and the aftermarket to enable the integration of external audio products with the car stereo system. However, such expansion modules only work together and allow the integration of external audio products manufactured by the same manufacturer as an OEM / aftermarket car stereo. For example, a satellite receiver manufactured by PIONEER, Inc. cannot be integrated with an OEM car radio manufactured by TOYOTA or a aftermarket car radio manufactured by CLARION, Inc. Thus, existing expansion modules serve only the limited purpose of integrating equipment from the same manufacturer as an automobile stereo system. Thus, it would be desirable to provide an integration system that allows any audio device of any manufacturer to integrate with any OEM or aftermarket radio system.

In addition, it is necessary to provide an integration system that not only integrates various audio devices that are “alien” to a given OEM stereo system or aftermarket, but also takes into account the information that needs to be exchanged between the aftermarket device and the car stereo. For example, it would be desirable to provide a system in which a radio station, phonogram (track), time, and song information can be extracted from a aftermarket device, formatted, and transmitted to a car stereo system for display, for example, on an LCD (liquid crystal) panel of a car stereo system . Such information can be transmitted and displayed both on hardware radio systems (for example, radio systems installed in dashboards or elsewhere in the car), or integrated to display on one or more software or graphically controlled radio systems working with graphic display panels . Additionally, it would be desirable to provide an integration audio system that allows the user to control more than one device, such as a CD or satellite receiver, and one or more auxiliary sources, and quickly and conveniently switch between them using the existing car stereo control.

Accordingly, the present invention addresses these needs by providing an audio integration system that integrates a variety of audio devices such as CD players, CD changers, MP3 players, satellite receivers, DAB receivers, auxiliary input sources, or a combination thereof, into existing car stereo systems, at the same time displaying information on the car stereo system and providing information management from it.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for integrating (combining) audio devices. One or more aftermarket audio devices, such as a CD player, CD changer, MP3 player, satellite receiver (such as an XM tuner), a digital audio broadcast receiver (DAB), or an auxiliary input source, can be connected to and work with an existing stereo system in a car, such as an OEM car stereo system or an aftermarket car stereo system installed in the car. An integration system is connected and interacts with the car stereo through any available car stereo port, such as a CD input port, satellite signal input, or other known type of connector. If the car stereo is an aftermarket car stereo, the present invention generates a signal that is sent to the car stereo to keep it operational and to be able to respond to external data and signals. The commands generated in the control panel are accepted by the present invention and are converted into a format recognized by the audio device of the secondary market. Formatted commands are executed by the audio device, and the audio signal from it is routed to the car stereo. Information from the audio device is received by the present invention, converted to a format recognized by the car stereo, and sent to the car stereo for display on it. The formatted information may include information related to a playable CD or MP3 phonogram, track, song and artist information from a satellite receiver or DAB receiver, or video information from one or more external devices associated with the present invention. Information can be presented in the form of one or more menus, textual or graphical prompts for display on the LCD display of the radio, allowing interaction with the user in the radio. A port for docking with a docking station (docking station) is provided for allowing portable external audio devices to be connected to an interface according to the present invention.

In an embodiment of the present invention, a device with two data inputs is provided for integrating both an external audio device and an auxiliary input with an OEM or aftermarket car stereo. The user can choose between an external audio device and an auxiliary input using the car stereo control. The invention can automatically detect the type of device connected to the auxiliary input and integrate it with the car stereo.

In another embodiment of the present invention, an interface is provided for integrating a plurality of auxiliary input sources with an existing car stereo. The user can choose between auxiliary sources using the control panel of the car stereo.

One or more aftermarket audio devices can be integrated with auxiliary input sources, and the user can switch between the audio device and auxiliary input sources using the car stereo. Devices associated with auxiliary input sources interact with the car stereo system and are able to exchange commands and data through the interface.

Brief Description of the Drawings

These and other important objects and features of the present invention are apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

1 is a block diagram showing an audio device integration system according to the present invention.

2A is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of an audio device integration system according to the present invention, in which a CD player is integrated with a car radio.

2B is a block diagram showing an additional embodiment of an audio device integration system according to the present invention, in which an MP3 player is integrated with a car radio.

Fig. 2C is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of an audio device integration system according to the present invention, in which a satellite communication receiver or DAB receiver is integrated with a car radio.

2D is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of an audio device integration system according to the present invention, in which a plurality of auxiliary input sources are integrated with a car radio.

FIG. 2E is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of an audio device integration system according to the present invention, in which a CD player and a plurality of auxiliary input sources are integrated with a car radio.

FIG. 2F is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a satellite or DAB receiver and a plurality of auxiliary input sources are integrated with a car radio.

FIG. 2G is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which an MP3 player and a plurality of auxiliary input sources are integrated with a car radio.

FIG. 2H is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in which a plurality of auxiliary interfaces and an audio device are integrated with the car stereo.

3A is a diagram showing an apparatus according to the present invention for integrating a CD player or auxiliary input source with a car radio.

FIG. 3B is a diagram showing a device according to the present invention for integrating both a CD player and an auxiliary input source with a car radio in which both the CD player and the auxiliary input are switched by a user.

3C is a diagram showing a device according to the present invention for integrating a plurality of auxiliary input sources with a car radio.

3D is a diagram showing a device according to the present invention for integrating a satellite communications receiver or a DAB receiver with a car radio.

4A illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating a CD player with a car radio.

4B illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating an MP3 player with a car radio.

4C illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating a satellite communications receiver with a car radio.

FIG. 4D illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating a plurality of auxiliary input sources with a car radio.

4E illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating a CD player and one or more auxiliary input sources with a car radio.

FIG. 4F illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating a satellite communications receiver or a DAB receiver and one or more auxiliary input sources with a car radio.

FIG. 4G illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for integrating an MP3 player and one or more auxiliary input sources with a car stereo.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for allowing a user to switch between an aftermarket audio device and one or more auxiliary input sources.

6 illustrates a flowchart of logic processing according to the present invention for determining and processing various types of devices associated with auxiliary signal input ports according to the invention.

Figa depicts a perspective view of a docking station according to the present invention for the location of the audio device in the car.

Fig. 7B is a rear view of the dock depicted in Fig. 7A.

FIGS. 8A-8B depict perspective views of another embodiment of a docking station according to the present invention, which includes an integrated audio device system according to the present invention combined with it.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing components of a docking station according to FIGS. 8A-8B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for integrating (combining) audio devices. One or more aftermarket audio devices, such as a CD player, CD changer, MP3 player, satellite receiver, digital audio broadcast (DAB) receiver, etc., can be integrated with an existing car radio, such as an OEM car stereo or aftermarket car stereo. Audio device control is permitted by using the car radio, and information from the audio device, such as a track (channel), artist, soundtrack, time and song information, is extracted from the audio device, processed and sent to the car radio for subsequent display on it. Information sent to the car radio may include video (data) from an external device, as well as graphical and menu-based information. The user can view and interact with the information using the car stereo. The commands from the car radio are received, processed using the present invention in a format recognized by the audio device, and transmitted to it for execution. One or more auxiliary input channels can be integrated with the car radio using the present invention. The user can switch between one or more audio devices and one or more auxiliary input channels using the buttons on the control panel of the car radio.

As used herein, the term “integration” or “integrated” means connecting one or more external devices or inputs (input signals) to an existing car radio or stereo system through an interface, processing and managing signals and audio channels, allowing the user to control devices using the car stereo system, and display of data from these devices on the radio (system). Thus, for example, the integration of the CD player with the car stereo allows you to remotely control the CD player through the stereo control panel and send data from the CD player to the stereo display. Of course, control of audio devices can be provided at locations other than the control panel of the radio receiver without interruption of the scope or form of the present invention. Additionally used herein, the term “interaction” is intended to mean permission to an external audio device to receive and process commands that have been formatted by the interface according to the present invention, as well as permission to the car stereo to display information that is generated by an external audio device and processed according to the present invention. Additionally, the use of the term “interaction” means permission to use a device that is alien to the surroundings of an existing OEM car stereo or aftermarket using this system.

Also used here are the terms "car stereo" and "car radio" are used interchangeably and are intended to cover all currently existing car stereo systems and radios, such as physical devices that are present at any location in the vehicle, in addition to software and / or graphically or display-controlled receivers. An example of such a receiver is a software-controlled receiver that operates on a universal LCD panel inside a vehicle and is driven by a user through a graphical user interface displayed on a universal LCD panel. In addition, any future receiver, whether it is a hardware or software / graphic receiver operating on one or more displays, is considered to fall within the scope of the definition of the terms "car stereo" and "car radio" used in the present description, and in scope and context of the present invention.

1 is a block diagram showing an audio device integration system (or interface) according to the present invention, generally indicated by 20. A plurality of devices and auxiliary inputs can be connected to interface 20 and integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10. A CD player or CD changer 15 can be integrated with radio 10 through interface 20. A satellite receiver or DAB 25, such as an XM satellite radio receiver or DAB receiver known in the art, can be integrated with radio 10 through interface 20. Additionally, the MP3 player can also be integrated with the radio 10 via the interface 20. In addition, a plurality of auxiliary input sources, illustratively designated as auxiliary input sources 35 (containing input output sources 1 to n, where n is any number) can also be integrated with the car radio 10 via interface 20. Optionally, the control head 12, for example, such as commonly used in aftermarket CD changers and other similar devices, may be integrated with the car radio 10 via interface 20 to control any device from the car radio 10, player / CD changer 15, satellite / DAB receiver 25, MP3 player 30 and auxiliary input sources 35 Igna. Thus, as you can see, the interface 20 according to the present invention allows you to integrate many devices and inputs with a car radio or an OEM or aftermarket stereo system.

FIG. 2A is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of an audio device interface system according to the present invention, in which the CD player / changer 15 is integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10. The CD player 15 is electrically connected to the interface 20 and exchanges data and audio signals with it. The interface 20 is electrically connected to the car radio 10, exchanges data and audio signals with it. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the car radio 10 includes a display 13 (for example, an alphanumeric, electroluminescent display) for displaying information, and a plurality of control panel buttons 14, which typically serve to control the radio receiver 10. The interface 20 allows via buttons 14 control in the radio 10 to control the CD player 15. Additionally, the interface 20 allows you to extract from the CD player 15, process and format information, such as soundtracks, disc, time and information about the song using the interface 20, send to the display 13 of the radio 10.

It is important that the interface 20 allows remote control of the CD player 15 from the radio 10 (for example, the CD player 15 can be located in the luggage compartment of the car, while the radio 10 is installed on the dashboard of the car). Thus, for example, one or more disks stored in the CD player 15 can be remotely selected by the user from the radio 10, and a track on one or more disks can be selected from it. In addition, standard CD commands, such as pause, play, stop, fast forward, rewind, go forward in the track, and change the track (among other commands) can be remotely entered using the buttons 14 of the radio control panel 10 for remote ( Remote) CD player control 15.

FIG. 2B is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which an MP3 player 30 is integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10 through an interface 20. As mentioned above, an interface 20 according to the present invention allows a plurality of unequal audio devices to be integrated with an existing car a radio for use with it. Thus, as shown in FIG. 2B, the remote control of the MP3 player 30 via the radio 10 is provided through the interface 20. The MP3 player 30 is electronically connected to the interface 20, which is directly electrically connected to the car radio 10. The interface 20 allows the exchange of data and audio signals between the MP3 player 30 and the car radio 10 and process and format the signals, respectively, so that commands and data from the radio 10 can be processed by the MP3 player 30 and vice versa. Work commands, such as selecting a soundtrack, pause, play, stop, fast forward, rewind and other commands, are entered using the buttons 14 of the control panel of the car radio 10, processed by interface 20 and formatted to be performed by the MP3 player 30. Data from the MP3 player , such as phonograms, time and song information, are received by the interface 20, processed by it, and sent to the radio 10 for display on the display 13. Audio data from the MP3 player 30 is selectively sent to the interface 20 th to the radio 10 to play.

FIG. 2C is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a satellite communication receiver or DAB receiver 25 is integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10 through an interface 20. Satellite communication receiver / DAB receiver 25 may be any satellite radio receiver, known in the art, such as XM or Sirius receivers, or any DAB receiver known in the art. The satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25 is electrically connected to an interface 20, which itself is electrically connected to the car radio 10. The satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25 is remotely controlled by the buttons 14 of the control panel of the radio receiver 10. The commands from the radio receiver 10 are received by the interface 20, processed and formatted with using it and are sent to the satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25 for execution on it. Information from the satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25, including the time, station and song information, is received by the interface 20, processed and transmitted to the radio receiver 10 for display on the display 13. Additionally, audio information from the satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25 is selectively sent by the interface 20 for playback by the radio 10.

2D is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which one or more auxiliary input sources 35 are integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10. These auxiliary inputs 35 may be connected to analog sources or may be digitally connected to one or more audio devices such as CD players, CD changers, MP3 players, satellite receivers, aftermarket DAB receivers, and the like, and Integrated with your existing car stereo. Preferably, four auxiliary input sources can be connected to interface 20, but any number of auxiliary input sources can be used. Audio data from auxiliary sources 35 of the input signal is selectively sent to the radio 10 at the command of the user. As described in more detail below, the user can select the desired input source from the auxiliary input sources 35 by pressing one or more buttons 14 of the control panel of the radio 10. The interface 20 receives a command initialized from the control panel, processes it, and connects the corresponding input source from auxiliary sources 35 of the input signal to ensure the direction of the audio data from it to the radio 10 for playback (playback). Additionally, the interface 20 determines the type of audio devices connected to the auxiliary inputs 35, and integrates them with the car stereo 10.

As mentioned above, the present invention allows one or more external audio devices to integrate with an existing OEM or aftermarket car stereo along with one or more auxiliary input sources, and the user can choose between these sources using the car stereo control. This double entry feature allows you to operate with devices connected to any of the device inputs, or both. It is important that the device can operate in plug and play mode, in which any device connected to one of the inputs is automatically detected by the present invention, the type of this device is determined, and the device automatically integrates with an existing OEM or aftermarket car stereo. Thus, the present invention does not depend on any particular type of device that must be connected to it for operation. For example, a user may first buy a CD changer, connect it to a dual interface and use it with a car stereo. At a later point in time, the user can buy an XM tuner, connect it to the device and the tuner will be automatically detected and integrated with the car stereo system, allowing the user to select and use both devices of the car stereo system. It should be noted that this plug-and-play capability is not limited to two data input devices, but is provided in each embodiment of the present invention. The two-input configuration of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 2E-2H and described below.

FIG. 2E is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which an external CD player / changer 15 and one or more auxiliary input sources 35 are integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car stereo 10. And the CD player 15 and one or more auxiliary sources 35 of the input signal are electrically connected to the interface 20, which, in turn, is electrically connected to the radio 10. Using the control means 14 of the radio 10, the user can choose between a CD player 15 and one or more inputs 35 for selectively directing audio data from these sources to a radio receiver. A command to select from one of these sources is received by the interface 20, processed by it, and the corresponding source is sent to the radio 10 by the interface 20. As described in more detail below, the interface 20 contains internal processing logic for making a choice between these sources.

2F is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which a satellite communications receiver or DAB receiver and one or more auxiliary input sources are integrated by an interface 20 with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10. Similar to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 2E and described above, the interface 20 allows the user to choose between a satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25 and one or more auxiliary input sources 35 using the control means 14 of the radio receiver 10. The interface 20 contains processing logic described in more detail below to enable switching between a satellite receiver / DAB receiver 25 and one or more auxiliary input sources 35.

FIG. 2G is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which an MP3 player 30 and one or more auxiliary input sources 35 are integrated by an interface 20 with an OEM or aftermarket car radio 10. Similar to the embodiments of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 2E and 2F and described above, the interface 20 allows the user to choose between an MP3 player 30 and one or more auxiliary input sources 35 using the control means 14 of the radio 10. The interface 20 contains processing logic that described in more detail below, to enable switching between the MP3 player 30 and one or more auxiliary input sources 35.

FIG. 2H is a block diagram showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention, in which a plurality of auxiliary interfaces 40 and 44 and an audio device 17 are integrated with an OEM or aftermarket car stereo 10. It is important that the present invention be expanded to allow for a plurality of auxiliary inputs with the car stereo 10 in the form of a tree structure. Thus, as can be seen from fig.2H, the first auxiliary interface 40 is connected to the interface 20 and allows you to exchange data and audio signals from ports 42 with the car radio 10. Another auxiliary interface 44 is connected to one of the ports 42, which, in turn, provides multiple inputs 46. Any device connected to any of the ports 42 or 46 can be integrated with the car radio 10. Additionally, any device connected to the ports 42 or 46 can communicate with the car radio receiver 10, allowing you to enter commands from the car radio 10 (for example, through the control panel 14) for issuing commands by the device, and information from the device that must be displayed by the car radio 10. Obviously, by configuring the interfaces 40, 44 and subsequent interfaces in a tree configurations, any number of devices can be integrated using the present invention.

The various embodiments of the present invention described above and shown in FIGS. 1-2H are illustrated in nature and are not intended to limit the form or scope of the present invention. Indeed, any possible audio device or input source in any desired combination can be integrated by the present invention into existing car stereo systems. Additionally, it is possible that not only data and audio signals can be transmitted between the car stereo and any external device, but also video information that can be captured by the present invention, processed by it and transmitted to the car stereo for display and interaction with the user.

Various circuit configurations may be used to carry out the present invention. Examples of such configurations are described below and shown in FIGS. 3A-3D.

FIG. 3A shows an exemplary circuit according to the present invention for integrating a CD player or auxiliary input source with an existing car stereo system. A plurality of ports J1C1, J2A1, X2, RCH and LCH are provided for allowing the interface system according to the present invention to be connected between an existing aftermarket car radio, a player or a CD changer, or an auxiliary input source. Each of these ports can be implemented by any suitable electrical connector known in the art. Port J1C1 connects to the OEM input of a car radio, such as manufactured by TOYOTA, Inc. Obviously, port J1C1 can be modified to provide connectivity to the aftermarket car radio input. Ports J2A1, X2, RCH, and LCH connect to a secondary market CD changer, such as manufactured by PANASONIC, Inc., or to an auxiliary input source.

The microcontroller U1 is in electrical communication with each of the ports J1C1, J2A1 and X2 and provides functionality for integrating a CD player or an auxiliary input source connected to ports J2A1, X2, RCH and LCH. For example, the microcontroller U1 receives control commands, such as keystrokes or keys initialized by the user in the control panel of the car radio and received in the J1C1 connector, processes and formats them and sends the formatted commands to the CD player or auxiliary input source via the J2A1 connector. Additionally, the microcontroller U1 receives information provided by the CD player or auxiliary input source through the J2A1 connector, processes and formats it, and transmits formatted data to the car stereo via the J1C1 connector for display on the car stereo. Audio signals output to ports J2A1, X2, RCH and LCH are selectively routed to the car radio through port J1C1 under the control of one or more user commands and processing logic, as described in more detail below, integrated into the U1 microcontroller.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller U1 comprises a microcontroller 16F628 manufactured by MICROCHIP, Inc. The 16F628 chip is an 8-bit CMOS microcontroller based on flash technology with an internal 4 MHz generator, 128 bytes of EEPROM data memory, capture / comparison / pulse width modulation functions, USART (universal synchronous-asynchronous transceiver), 2 comparators and a programmable reference voltage source. Of course, any suitable microcontroller known in the art can replace the microcontroller U1 without departing from the scope or context of the present invention.

Many discrete components, such as resistors R1-R13, diodes D1-D4, capacitors C1 and C2 and a generator Y1, among other components are provided for the interaction of the microcontroller U1 with hardware connected to the connectors J1C1, J2A1, X2, RCH and LCH. These components, as obvious to those skilled in the art, can be placed as required to accommodate a number of microcontrollers, and the number and types of discrete components can be changed to use other similar controllers. Thus, the circuit shown in FIG. 3A and described herein is illustrative in nature and it is believed that its modifications are within the scope and form of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a diagram showing an illustrative configuration of a circuit according to the present invention, wherein one or more aftermarket CD changers / players and auxiliary input sources are integrated with an existing car stereo, and the user can select between a CD / CD changer and auxiliary input using the car stereo control. A variety of connectors are provided, illustratively designated as ports J4A, J4B, J3, J5L1, J5R1, J1, and J2. Ports J4A, J4B, and J3 allow the audio device interface system of the present invention to connect to one or more existing car stereo systems, such as an OEM car stereo or aftermarket car stereo. Each of these ports can be implemented by any suitable electrical connector known in the art. For example, the J4A and J4B ports can be connected to an OEM car stereo manufactured by BMW, Inc. Port J3 can be connected to a car stereo manufactured by LANDROVER, Inc. Of course, any number of car stereo systems of any manufacturer can be provided. Ports J1 and J2 allow connection to a aftermarket CD changer or player, such as those manufactured by ALPINE, INC., And an auxiliary input source.

Optionally, ports J5L1 and J5R1 allow integration of a standard source of analog (signal line level) signal. Of course, a separate standalone CD player or auxiliary input source can be connected to any of the ports J1 or J2.

The DD1 microcontroller is in electrical communication with each of the ports J4A, J4B, J3, J5L1, J5R1, J1 and J2 and provides functionality for integrating the CD player and the auxiliary input source connected to ports J1 and J2 with the car stereo connected to ports J4A and J4B or J3. For example, the microcontroller DD1 receives control commands, such as sequences of pressing buttons or keys initialized by the user on the control panel of a car radio, and received in connectors J4A and J4B or J3, processes and formats them, and sends formatted commands to the CD player and auxiliary input source via connectors J1 or J2. Additionally, the microcontroller DD1 receives information provided by the CD player and the auxiliary input source through connectors J1 or J2, processes and formats them, and transmits formatted data to the car stereo through connectors J4A and J4B or J3 for display on the display of the car stereo. Additionally, the DD1 microcontroller controls the DA3 multiplexer to provide a choice between a CD player / changer and an auxiliary input. The audio signals provided at ports J1, J2, J5L1 and J5R1 are selectively routed to the car radio at ports J4A and J4B or J3 under the control of one or more user commands and processing logic, which are described in more detail below, embedded in the microcontroller DD1.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller DD1 comprises a microcontroller 16F872 manufactured by MICROCHIP, Inc. The 16F872 chip is an 8-bit CMOS microcontroller based on flash technology with 64 bytes of EEPROM data memory, automatic programming capabilities, ICD, 5 channels of 10-bit analog-to-digital (A / D) converters, 2 timers, capture / comparison functions / pulse width modulation, USART, and a synchronous serial port, configurable as either a 3-wire serial interface of peripheral devices or a 2-wire bus connection of integrated circuits. Of course, any suitable microcontroller known in the art can replace the DD1 microcontroller without interrupting the form or scope of the present invention. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the DA3 multiplexer comprises a CD4053 integrated dual channel analog multiplexer / demultiplexer manufactured by FAIRCHILD SEMICONDUCTOR, Inc. Any other suitable multiplexer may replace DA3 without interruption of the form or context of the present invention.

Many discrete components, such as resistors R1-R18, diodes D1-D3, capacitors C1-C11 and G1-G3, transistors Q1-Q3, transformers T1 and T2, amplifiers LCH: A and LCH: B, XTAL1 generator, among other components It is provided for the interaction of the microcontroller DD1 and the DA3 multiplexer with hardware connected to the J4A, J4B, J3, J5L1, J5R1, J1 and J2 connectors. These components, as is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, can be arranged as required to accommodate a number of microcontrollers and multiplexers, and the number and types of discrete components can be modified to use other similar controllers and multiplexers. Thus, the circuit shown in FIG. 3B and described herein is illustrative in nature, and its modifications are intended to fall within the scope and context of the present invention.

3C is a diagram illustrating an example circuit configuration for integrating a plurality of auxiliary inputs using the car stereo control means. A plurality of connectors are provided, illustratively designated as ports J1, RCH1, LCH1, RCH2, LCH2, RCH3, LCH3, RCH4, and LCH4. Port J1 allows the audio device integration system of the present invention to connect to one or more existing car stereo systems. Each of these ports can be implemented as any suitable electrical connector known in the art. For example, port J1 can be connected to an OEM car stereo manufactured by HONDA, Inc. Or any other manufacturer. The RCH1, LCH1, RCH2, LCH2, RCH3, LCH3, RCH4, and LCH4 ports allow left and right channels of the four auxiliary input sources. Of course, any number of auxiliary input sources and ports / connectors can be provided.

The microcontroller U1 is in electrical connection with each of the ports J1, RCH1, LCH1, RCH2, LCH2, RCH3, LCH3, RCH4 and LCH4 and provides functionality for integrating one or more auxiliary input sources connected to the ports RCH1, LCH1, RCH2, LCH2, RCH3, LCH3, RCH4 and LCH4, with a car stereo connected to port J1. Additionally, the microcontroller U1 controls the DA3 and DA4 multiplexers to allow selection among any of the auxiliary inputs using the car stereo control. The audio signals provided at ports RCH1, LCH1, RCH2, LCH2, RCH3, LCH3, RCH4 and LCH4 are selectively routed to the car radio at port J1 under the control of one or more user commands and processing logic, as described below in more detail embedded in the microcontroller U1. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller U1 comprises the microcontroller 16F872 described above. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, DA3 and DA4 multiplexers comprise a triple CD4053, a dual channel analog multiplexer / demultiplexer, as described above. Any other suitable microcontroller and multiplexers can replace U1, DA3, and DA4 without departing from the form or context of the present invention.

Many discrete components, such as resistors R1-R15, diodes D1-D3, capacitors C1-C5, transistors Q1-Q2, amplifiers DA1: A and DA1: B and a generator Y1, among other components are provided for the interaction of the microcontroller U1 and multiplexers DA3 and DA4 with hardware connected to ports J1, RCH1, LCH1, RCH2, LCH2, RCH3, LCH3, RCH4, and LCH4.

These components, as is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, can be positioned as needed to accommodate a number of microcontrollers and multiplexers, and the number and types of discrete components can be modified to accommodate other similar controllers and multiplexers. Thus, the circuit shown in FIG. 3C and described herein is exemplary in nature, and its modification is intended to be within the scope and form of the present invention.

3D is an illustrative diagram according to the present invention for integrating a satellite communications receiver with an existing OEM or aftermarket car stereo system. Ports J1 and J2 provide for connecting the integration system of the present invention between an existing car radio and a satellite communications receiver. These ports can be implemented by any suitable electrical connector known in the art. Port J2 connects to the input of an existing car radio, such as manufactured by KENWOOD, Inc. Port 1 is connected to a secondary market satellite receiver, such as manufactured by PIONEER, Inc.

The microcontroller U1 is in electrical connection with each of the ports J1 and J2 and provides functionality for integrating a satellite communications receiver connected to port J1 with a car stereo connected to port J2. For example, microcontroller U1 receives control commands, such as sequences of pressing buttons or keys initialized by a user on the control panel of a car radio, and received in connector J2, processes and formats them, and sends formatted commands to the satellite receiver via connector J2. In addition, the microcontroller U1 receives information provided by the satellite receiver through the connector J1, processes and formats them and transmits formatted data to the car stereo through the connector J2 for display on the display of the car stereo. The audio signals provided at port J1 are selectively routed to the car radio at port J2 under the control of one or more user commands and processing logic, as described in more detail below, embedded in the microcontroller U1.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, microcontroller U1 comprises a microcontroller 16F873 manufactured by MICROCHIP, Inc. Chip 16F873 is an 8-bit CMOS microcontroller based on flash technology, having 128 bytes of EEPROM data memory, automatic programming capabilities, ICD, 5 channels of 10-bit analog-to-digital (A / D) converters, 2 timers, 2 capture / comparison / pulse width modulation and synchronous serial port, which can be configured as either a 3-wire serial interface of peripheral devices or a 2-wire bus connection of integrated circuits, and USART. Of course, any suitable microcontroller known in the art can replace the DD1 microcontroller without interrupting the form or scope of the present invention.

Many discrete components, such as resistors R1-R7, capacitors C1 and C2, and amplifier A1, among other components, are provided for the interaction of microcontroller U1 with hardware connected to connectors J1 and J2.

These components, as is obvious to one of ordinary skill in the art, can be positioned as required to accommodate a number of microcontrollers, and the number and types of discrete components can be modified to accommodate other similar controllers. Thus, the circuit shown in FIG. 3D and described herein is illustrative in nature and its modifications are intended to be within the scope and context of the present invention.

Figa-6 illustrate the sequence of operations, depict the logic (logical operations) processing according to the present invention. Such logic may be implemented in the form of software and / or instructions stored in a ROM circuit (for example, an EEPROM circuit), or other similar device. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the processing logic described herein is stored in one or more microcontrollers, such as the microcontrollers described above with reference to FIGS. 3A-3D. Of course, any other suitable means may be used to preserve the processing logic of the present invention.

Fig. 4A illustrates a flowchart showing processing logic, indicated as a whole 100, for integrating a CD player or changer with an existing OEM or aftermarket car stereo. Starting at step 100, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 104 is called up, in which the present invention enters standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive response is received, step 106 is called up, in which a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 106 is called again.

If a positive response is received at step 106, the CD processing, referred to as step 108, is called up, allowing the CD player / changer to exchange data and audio signals with any existing car stereo system. Starting at step 110, a signal is generated according to the present invention, indicating that a player / CD changer is present, and this signal is continuously transmitted to the car stereo. It is important that this signal prevents the car stereo system from turning off, entering standby mode, or otherwise making the device unresponsive to signals and / or data from an external source. If the car radio is an OEM car radio, there is no need to generate a CD player presence signal. Simultaneously with step 110, or within a short period of time before or after step 110, steps 112 and 114 are called. At step 112, the audio channels of the player / CD changer are connected (routed to) with the car stereo, allowing audio recordings from the player / changer to be played. CD through the car stereo. At 114, data is extracted by the present invention from the player / CD changer, including the track and time information, formatted and transmitted to the car stereo for display by the car stereo. Thus, the information generated by the external player / CD changer can be quickly and conveniently viewed by the driver by simply viewing the display of the car stereo. After steps 110, 112, and 114 have been completed, control is passed to step 116.

At steps 116, the present invention controls the buttons of the control panel of the car stereo system to accept CD commands. Examples of such commands include moving forward in a track, reversing tracks, playing, stopping, fast forward, rewinding, program tracking, randomly playing a track, and other such commands. At step 118, if the command is not detected, step 116 is called again. Otherwise, if the command is accepted, step 118 calls step 120, in which the received command is converted to a format recognized by the player / CD changer connected to the present invention. For example, at this point, the command issued from the GM car radio is converted to a format recognized by the player / CD changer manufactured by ALPINE, Inc. Any possible command from any type of car radio can be formatted for use by any type or manufacturer of CD player / changer. Once the command has been formatted, step 122 is called, where the formatted command is transmitted to the CD player / switch and executed. Step 110 is then re-called so that additional processing can occur.

FIG. 4B illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 130, for integrating an MP3 player with an existing car stereo. Beginning at block 132, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 134 is called in which the present invention enters into standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive response is received, step 136 is called up, where a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 136 is called again.

If a positive answer is received at step 136, the MP3 processing process, referred to as step 138, is called, allowing the MP3 player to exchange data and audio signals with any existing car stereo system. Starting at step 140, a CD player presence signal described above by the present invention is generated and continuously transmitted to the car stereo. If the car radio is an OEM car radio, there is no need to generate a presence signal for the CD player. At 142, the audio channels of the MP3 player are connected (routed) to the car stereo, allowing audio recordings from the MP3 player of the car stereo to be played. At 144, data is extracted by the present invention from an MP3 player, including a soundtrack, time, title and song information, formatted and transmitted to the car stereo for display by the car stereo. Thus, the information generated by the MP3 player can be quickly and conveniently viewed by the driver, simply by viewing the display of the car stereo. After steps 140, 142, and 144 have been completed, control is passed to step 146.

At steps 146, the present invention controls the buttons of the control panel of the car stereo to detect MP3 operation commands. Examples of such commands include moving forward in a track, reversing a track, playing, stopping, fast forward, rewinding, programming a track, randomly playing a track, and other such commands. At step 148, if the command is not detected, step 146 is called again. Otherwise, if the command is accepted, step 148 calls step 150, in which the received command is converted to a format recognized by the MP3 player connected to the present invention. For example, at this point, a command issued from a HONDA car radio is converted to a format recognized by an MP3 player manufactured by PANASONIC, Inc. Any possible command from any type of car radio can be formatted for use by any type of MP3 player or manufacturer. Once the command has been formatted, step 152 is called, in which the formatted command is transmitted to the MP3 player and executed. Then, step 140 is called again so that additional processing can take place.

FIG. 4C illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 160, for integrating a satellite communications receiver or DAB receiver with an existing car stereo system. Starting at step 162, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 164 is called in which the present invention enters a standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive result is obtained, step 166 is called, in which a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 166 is called again.

If a positive result is obtained in step 166, the satellite / DAB receiver control process, referred to as step 168, is called up, allowing the satellite / DAB receiver to exchange data and audio signals with any existing car stereo system. Starting at step 170, the presence signal of the CD player described above is generated by the present invention and continuously transmitted to the car stereo. If the car radio is an OEM car radio, there is no need to generate a CD player presence signal. At step 172, the satellite / DAB receiver audio channels are connected (routed) to the car stereo, allowing audio from the satellite receiver or DAB receiver to be played using the car stereo. At step 174, data is extracted by the present invention from a satellite / DAB receiver, including channel number, channel name, artist name, song time and song name, formatted and transmitted to the car stereo for display by the car stereo. Information can be presented in one or more menus or through a graphical interface, viewed, and can be controlled by the user in the car stereo. Thus, the information generated by the receiver can be quickly and conveniently viewed by the driver by simply viewing the display of the car stereo. After steps 170, 172 and 174 have been completed, control is passed to step 176.

In steps 176, the present invention controls the buttons of the control panel of the car stereo system to detect satellite / DAB receiver control commands. Examples of such commands include switching to the next station, switching to the previous station down, station memory program, and other similar commands. At step 178, if the command is not detected, step 176 is called again. Otherwise, if the command is received, step 178 calls step 180, in which the received command is converted to a format recognized by the satellite receiver / DAB receiver connected to the present invention. For example, at this point, a command issued from a FORD car radio is converted to a format recognized by a satellite receiver manufactured by PIONEER, Inc. Any possible command from any type of car radio can be formatted for use by any type of satellite receiver / DAB receiver or manufacturer. Once the command has been formatted, step 182 is called, in which the formatted command is transmitted to the satellite receiver / DAB receiver and executed. Then, step 170 is called again so that additional processing can take place.

FIG. 4D illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 190, for integrating a plurality of auxiliary input sources with a car radio. Starting at step 192, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 194 is called up, in which the present invention enters into standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive result is obtained, step 196 is called up, in which a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 196 is called again.

If a positive result is obtained at step 196, the auxiliary input processing process, referred to as step 198, is called, allowing one or more auxiliary inputs to connect (route signals) to the car stereo. Additionally, if there are many auxiliary inputs, the logic of step 198 allows the user to select the desired input from the many inputs. Starting at step 200, the present invention generates a presence signal of the CD player described above, and is continuously transmitted to the car stereo. If the car radio is an OEM car radio, there is no need to generate a presence signal for the CD player. Then, at step 202, the buttons of the control panel of the car stereo are checked.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of one or more auxiliary input sources is selected by selecting a CD number on the control panel of the car radio. Thus, in step 204, a determination is made as to whether the number of the first disk has been selected. If a positive result is obtained, step 206 is called up, in which the first auxiliary input source is connected (routed) to the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained, step 208 is called up, in which a second determination is made as to whether the second disk number has been selected. If a positive result is obtained, step 210 is called up, in which a second auxiliary input source is connected (routed) to the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained, step 212 is called in which a third determination is made as to whether the third disk number has been selected. If a positive result is obtained, step 214 is called up, in which a third auxiliary input source is connected (routed) to the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained, step 216 is called in which a fourth determination is made as to whether the fourth disk number has been selected. If a positive result is obtained, step 218 is called up, in which the fourth auxiliary input source is connected (routed) to the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained, step 200 is called again and the process disclosed for step 198 is repeated. Additionally, if any of steps 206, 210, 214 or 218 is performed, step 200 is called again, and step 198 is repeated.

The process disclosed at block 198 allows the user to select one of four auxiliary input sources using the car stereo control buttons. Of course, the number of auxiliary input sources connected to and selected by the present invention can be expanded to any desired number. Thus, for example, 6 auxiliary input sources could be provided and switched using the corresponding selection key (s) or pressing the keys (s) on the radio control panel. In addition, any desired keystroke, selection sequence, or button (s) on the radio control panel, or elsewhere, may be used to select auxiliary input sources without interrupting the form or context of the present invention.

4E illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 220, for integrating a CD player and one or more auxiliary input sources with a car radio. Starting at step 222, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 224 is called up, in which the present invention enters standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive result is obtained, step 226 is called up, in which a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 226 is called again.

If a positive result is obtained in step 226, then step 228 is called up, in which the presence signal of the CD player described above is generated by the present invention and continuously transmitted to the car stereo. Then, at step 230, a determination is made as to whether a CD player is present (i.e., whether an external CD player or changer is connected to the device integration audio system of the present invention). If a positive result is obtained, steps 231 and 232 are called up. At step 231, the logic of step 108 in FIG. 4A (CD processing) described above is called up so that the player / CD changer can be integrated with the car stereo and used by the user. At 232, a sensing mode is initialized, in which the present invention controls a selection sequence (as described in more detail below) initiated by a user on a car stereo control panel to switch from an external player / CD changer to one or more auxiliary input sources. Next, step 234 is called, in which a determination is made as to whether such a sequence has been initialized. If a negative result is obtained, step 234 re-calls step 228, so that further processing can occur. Otherwise, if a positive result is obtained (i.e., the user wishes to switch from an external player / CD changer to one of the auxiliary input sources), step 236 is called, in which the audio channels of the player / CD changer are disconnected from the car stereo. Then, step 238 is called, in which the logic of step 198 of FIG. 4D (auxiliary input processing process) described above is executed, allowing the user to select one of the auxiliary input sources. When a negative result is obtained in step 230 (no external player / CD changer is connected to the present invention), then step 238 is called up and the system goes into auxiliary mode. The user can then select one or more auxiliary input sources using the radio control.

FIG. 4F illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 240, for integrating a satellite communications receiver or DAB receiver and one or more auxiliary input sources with a car radio. Starting at step 242, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 244 is called up, in which the present invention enters standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive result is obtained, step 246 is called up, where a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 246 is called again.

If a positive result is obtained in step 246, then step 248 is called up, in which the presence signal of the CD player described above is generated according to the present invention and continuously transmitted to the car stereo. Then, at step 250, a determination is made as to whether a satellite receiver or DAB receiver is present (i.e., whether an external satellite receiver or DAB receiver is connected to the device integration audio system of the present invention). If a positive result is obtained, steps 231 and 232 are called up. At step 251, the logic of step 168 of FIG. 4C (satellite communications / DAB receiver processing process) is called up, so that the satellite communications receiver can be integrated with the car stereo and used by the user. At step 252, the sensing mode is initialized, in which the present invention monitors the selection sequence (as described in more detail below) initiated by the user from the control panel of the car stereo to switch from an external satellite receiver to one or more auxiliary input sources. Next, step 254 is called, in which a determination is made as to whether such a sequence has been initialized. If a negative result is obtained, step 254 re-calls step 258, so that further processing can occur. Otherwise, if a positive result is obtained (i.e., the user wishes to switch from an external satellite receiver / DAB to one of the auxiliary input sources), step 256 is called up, in which the audio channels of the satellite receiver are disconnected from the car stereo. Then, step 258 is called, in which the logic of step 198 of FIG. 4D (auxiliary input processing process) described above is executed, allowing the user to select one of the auxiliary input sources. When a negative result is obtained at step 250 (there is no external satellite / DAB receiver connected to the present invention), then step 258 is called up and the system goes into secondary mode. The user can then select one or more auxiliary input sources using the radio control.

FIG. 4G is a flowchart illustrating processing logic according to the present invention for integrating an MP3 player and one or more auxiliary input sources with a car stereo. Starting at step 262, a determination is made as to whether the existing car stereo is turned on. If a negative result is obtained, step 264 is called up, in which the present invention enters into standby mode and waits for the car stereo to turn on. If a positive result is obtained, step 266 is called up, in which a second determination is made as to whether the car stereo is in CD player mode. If a negative result is obtained, step 266 is called again.

If a positive result is obtained in step 266, then step 268 is called, in which the present invention generates a CD player presence signal described above and is continuously transmitted to the car stereo. Then, at step 270, a determination is made as to whether an MP3 player is present (i.e., whether the external MP3 player is connected to the audio device integration system of the present invention). If a positive result is obtained, steps 271 and 272 are called up. At step 271, the logic of step 138 of FIG. 4B (MP3 processing) is called up so that the player / CD changer can be integrated with the car stereo and used by the user. At step 272, a sensing mode is initialized in which the present invention monitors the selection sequence (as described in more detail below) initiated by the user from the control panel of the car stereo to switch from an external player / CD changer to one or more auxiliary input sources. Next, step 274 is called, in which a determination is made as to whether such a sequence has been initialized. If a negative result is obtained, step 274 re-calls step 278, so that processing can take place further. Otherwise, if a positive result is obtained (i.e., the user wants to switch from an external MP3 player to one of the auxiliary input sources), step 276 is called, at which the audio channels of the MP3 player are disconnected from the car stereo. Then, step 278 is called, in which the logic of step 198 of FIG. 4D (auxiliary input processing process) described above is executed, allowing the user to select one of the auxiliary input sources. When a negative result is obtained at step 270 (no external MP3 player is connected to the present invention), then step 278 is called up and the system goes into auxiliary mode. The user can then select one or more auxiliary input sources using the radio control.

As mentioned above, to enable integration, the present invention contains logic for converting command signals output from a aftermarket or OEM car stereo into a format compatible with one or more external audio devices connected to the present invention. Such logic can be applied to convert any car stereo signal for use with any external device. For the purpose of illustration, a typical part of the code is illustrated in table 1 below for converting control signals from the stereo system of a BMW car into a format understood by the CD changer:

Table 1 The radio asks for the STOP changer (exit PLAY mode) Decoding message 6805183801004C Encode_RD_stop_msg: movlw 0x68 xorwf BMW_Recv_buff, W skpz return movlw 0x05 xorwf BMW_Recv_buff + 1, W skpz return movlw 0x18 xorwf BMW_Recv_buff + 2, W skpz return movlw 0x38 xorwf BMW_Recv_buff + 3, W skpz return movlw 0x01 xorwf BMW_Recv_buff + 4, W skpz return tstf BMW_Recv_buff + 5 skpz return movlw 0x4C xorwf BMW_Recv_buff + 6, W skpz return bsf BMW Recv_STOP_msg return

The code part shown in Table 1 receives the STOP command issued by the BMW stereo system in the proprietary format of the BMW stereo system. Preferably, the received command is stored in a first buffer, such as BMW_Recv_buff. The Encode_RD stop_msg procedure reapplies the XOR function (EXCLUSIVE OR) to the STOP command, resulting in a new command that is in a format compatible with the aftermarket CD player. The command is then stored in the output buffer to dispatch (transfer) to the CD player.

Additionally, the present invention contains logic for extracting information from audio devices of the secondary market and converting it into a format compatible with the car stereo system for display through it. Such logic can be applied to convert any data from an external device to display on the car stereo. For the purpose of illustration, a typical part of the code is shown in Table 2 below for converting data from the CD changer into a format that the BMW stereo system understands:

table 2 Changer responds with STOP confirmation Message Encoding 180A68390002003F0001027D Load_CD_stop_msg: movlw 0x18 movwf_BMW_Send_buff movlw 0x0A movwf BMW_Send_buff + 1 movlw 0x68 movwf BMW_Send_buff + 2 movlw 0x39 movwf BMW_Send_buff + 3 movlw 0x00 current status_XX = 00, power off movwf BMW_Send_buff + 4 current status YY = 02, power off movlw 0x02 movwf BMW_Send_buff + 5 clrf BMW_Send_buff + 6 separate field, always = 0 movfw BMW_MM_stat current status_MM, magazine config

movwf BMW_Send_buff + 7 clrf BMW_Sendbuff + 8 separate field, always = 0 movfw BMW_DD_stat current status_DD, current disc movwf BMW_Send_buff + 9 Movfw BMW_TT_stat current status_TT, current track Movwf BMW_Sendbuff + 10 Xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 9, W calculate check sum xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 8, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 7, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 6, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 5, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 4, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 3, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 2, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff + 1, W xorwf BMW_Send_buff, W movwf BMW_Send_buff + 11 store check sum movlw D 12 12 bytes total movwf BMW_Send_cnt bsf BMW_Send_on ready to send Return

The code part shown in Table 2 receives the STOP command confirmation message from the CD player in a format that is owned by the CD player. Preferably, the received command is stored in the first buffer, such as BMW_Send_buff. The "Load_CD_stop_msg" procedure retrieves the status information, receiver information, current disc, and current track information from the CD changer and creates a response containing this information. Then the checksum is calculated and stored in another buffer. The answer and checksum are in a format compatible with the BMW stereo system and are ready for dispatch to the car stereo system.

While the above parts of the code are shown using assembly language, it should be understood that any low or high level language known in the art, such as C or C ++, can be used without interruption from the form or context of the invention. Obviously, various other parts of the code can be designed to convert signals from any automotive aftermarket car stereo or OEM for use by an external aftermarket audio device and vice versa.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 300, to allow a user to switch between a secondary market audio device and one or more auxiliary input sources. As described above, the present invention allows a user to switch from one or more connected audio devices such as an external CD player / changer, MP3 player, satellite receiver, DAB receiver or the like, and activate one or more auxiliary input sources. The selection sequence initialized by the user on the control panel of the car stereo allows such a switch. Starting at step 302, the buttons of the control panel are checked. At step 304, a determination is made as to whether the button or sequence "Track Up" ("Next Track") has been initialized by the user. A button or “Track Up” sequence may occur for a CD player, an MP3 player, or any other device. If a negative result is obtained, step 306 is called up, in which the received button or sequence is processed in accordance with the present invention and sent to an external audio device for execution. Then, step 302 is called again, so that additional buttons or sequences can be checked.

When a positive result is obtained in step 304, step 308 is called up, in which the present invention waits for a predetermined period of time, while at the same time controlling the buttons of the control panel while waiting for additional buttons or sequences to be pressed. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the predetermined time period is 750 milliseconds, but of course other time durations are considered within the scope and context of the present invention. At step 310, a determination is made as to whether the user has initialized the button or sequence "Track Down" on the control panel of the car stereo for a predetermined period of time. A button or “Track Down” sequence may be provided for a CD player, an MP3 player, or any other device. If a negative result is obtained, step 312 is called. At step 312, a determination is made whether a timeout has occurred (for example, a predetermined time period has elapsed). If a negative result is obtained, step 308 is called again. Otherwise, if a positive result is obtained, step 312 calls step 306, so that any buttons or key sequences initialized by the user that are not “Track Down” commands are processed in accordance with this invention and transferred to the audio device to perform.

When a positive result is obtained in step 310 (the button or “Track Down” sequence has been initialized for a predetermined period of time), then step 314 is called. At step 314, the audio channels of the audio device are disconnected and then step 316 is called. At step 316, the logic of step 198 is called from FIG. 4D (auxiliary input processing process) described above, so that the user can select one of the auxiliary input sources in accordance with the present invention. Thus, at this point in time, the system is switched under the control of the user from the audio device to the desired auxiliary input. Although the foregoing description of process 300 has been described with respect to the “Track Up” and “Track down” buttons or user-initiated commands, it should be understood that any desired key sequence, key press, button press, or any other action may be perceived in accordance with this invention and used to switch modes.

When operating in auxiliary mode, the present invention provides an indication on the display of the car stereo for such a mode. For example, the CD number may be displayed as “1” and the track number displayed as “99”, thus indicating to the user that the system is in auxiliary mode and that audio and data are output from the auxiliary input source. Of course, any other indication can be formed and displayed on the display of the car stereo, such as a graphic display (for example, an icon) or a text prompt.

6 illustrates a flow diagram depicting processing logic, generally designated 320, for identifying and processing various types of devices connected to auxiliary inputs of the invention. The present invention can perceive the types of devices connected to the auxiliary inputs, and can integrate them with the car stereo using the procedure described above. Beginning at block 322, the buttons of the control panel of the car stereo are checked to find the button or sequence initialized by the user corresponding to the auxiliary input selection (such as the disk number described above with reference to FIG. 4D). In response to the selection of the auxiliary input, step 324 is called up, in which the type of device connected to the selected auxiliary input is perceived by the present invention. Then, step 326 is called.

At 326, a determination is made whether the device connected to the auxiliary input is a CD player / changer. If a positive result is obtained, step 328 is called, which executes the logic of step 108 of FIG. 4A (CD processing) described above, and the CD player integrates with the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained at step 326, then step 330 is called. At step 330, a determination is made whether the device connected to the auxiliary input is an MP3 player. If a positive result is obtained, step 334 is called, at which the logic of step 138 in FIG. 4B (MP3 processing process) described above is executed, and the MP3 player is integrated with the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained at step 330, step 336 is called up. At step 336, a determination is made whether the device connected to the auxiliary input, satellite receiver or DAB receiver. If a positive result is obtained, step 338 is called up, which executes the logic of step 168 of FIG. 4C (satellite / attached receiver processing process) described above, and the satellite receiver integrates with the car stereo. If a negative result is obtained in step 336, step 322 is called again so that the options for selecting additional auxiliary inputs can be checked and processed, respectively. Of course, the process 320 can be expanded to integrate other types of devices connected to the auxiliary inputs of the present invention with the car stereo.

The present invention can be extended to allow the transmission of video information generated by an external device, which must be integrated with the display of an existing OEM or aftermarket car stereo system. In this mode, the invention receives RGB input signals from an external device and converts them into composite signals. Composite signals are then transmitted to the car stereo to display them, for example, on the stereo's LCD panel. Additionally, information from an external device can be formatted and presented to the user in one or more graphical user interfaces or menus, which can be viewed and controlled on the car stereo.

7A is a perspective view of a docking station 400 according to the present invention for using an audio device within an automobile. It is important that the present invention can be adapted in order to allow the integration of portable audio devices with an existing car stereo system. The docking station 400 allows such portable devices to be conveniently positioned and integrated with the car stereo. The docking station 400 includes an upper portion 402 pivotally connected at the rear portion 408 to a lower portion 404, preferably in a mollusk-like configuration. A portable audio device 410, such as a SKYFI radio distributed by DELPHI, Inc., is physically and electrically connected to the installation part 412 and within the station 100. A clip 406 may be provided to hold the upper and lower parts in a closed position to hold the device 410. Optionally, the video device may also be attached using the dock 400, and printed contacts may be provided to hold the dock 400 in place within the car part. Obviously, the docking station 400 can be of any shape, for example, in the form of a housing for receiving and holding a portable audio device and having an installation part for electrical and mechanical connection with the audio device.

FIG. 7B is a rear view showing the rear portion 408 of the dock 400 shown in FIG. 7A. A hinge 414 connects the upper and lower parts of the docking station 400. A data port 416 is provided for interacting with the audio device installed in the station 400 and is in electrical connection with it. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the data port 416 is an RS-232 serial port or a USB data port that provides data transmission with an audio device and which connects to an audio device integration system of the present invention to integrate an audio device with an OEM or aftermarket car stereo. Any known bus technology can be used to interact with any portable audio or video device located in the 400 dock, such as FIREWIRE, D2B, MOST, CAN, USB, USB2, IE Bus, T Bus, I Bus, or any other bus technology known in the art.

FIGS. 8A-8B are perspective views of another embodiment of a docking station according to the present invention, designated generally 500, which includes an integration system of audio devices according to the present invention, indicated generally as 540, embedded therein. As shown in FIG. 8A, the docking station 500 includes a main body 530, a lower element 515 connected to the main body 530 at its boundary, and an upper element 510 pivotally connected at a boundary with the main body 530. The upper element 510 and the lower the element 515 determines the volume for installing and holding the portable audio device 520, which may be a portable CD player, an MP3 player, a satellite (e.g., XM, SIRIUS or other type) tuner or any other portable audio device. The docking station 500 may be configured to accommodate a specific device, such as an IPOD from Apple Computer, Inc. or any other portable device.

An integration system 540 for audio devices in the form of a circuit board is located within the main body 530 and performs the integration functions described for integrating the portable audio device 520 with an existing car stereo system. The integration system 540 is connected to the portable audio device 520 via a connector 550, which is connected to a port on the audio device 520 and a cable 555 connected between the connector 550 and the integration system 540. Connector 550 may be any suitable connector and may vary according to the type of device. For example, MOLEX, USB, or any other connector may be used, depending on the portable device. The integration system 540 is electrically connected to the car stereo system by cable 560. Alternatively, the integration system can wirelessly connect to the car stereo. The transmitter can be used in an integration system to connect to a receiver in a car stereo. If cars include Bluetooth systems, such systems can be used to connect to the integration system. As can be appreciated, the docking station 500 provides a convenient device for attaching, holding and integrating a portable audio device for use with a car stereo. Additionally, the docking station 500 can be installed at any desired location in the vehicle, including, but not limited to, the luggage compartment of the vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 8B, the upper element 510 can open in the direction indicated by the arrow A in general to provide access to the portable audio device 520. Thus, the device 520 can be quickly accessed for any desired purpose, for example, to insert and remove devices 520 from the dock 500, as well as to provide access to the control device 520.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing components of a docking station according to FIGS. 8A-8B. The docking station 500 houses both the portable audio unit 520 and the audio unit integration system (or interface) 540. The shape and configuration of the docking station 500 can be changed as needed without interruption of the form or context of the present invention.

An integration system according to the present invention provides control of a portable audio device or other device using the car stereo control. As such, the control on the control wheel, if present, can also be used to control a portable audio device or other device.

Thus, although the invention has been described in detail, it should be understood that the foregoing description is not intended to limit its scope and context.

Claims (76)

1. An audio device integration system comprising:
a first connector electrically connected to the car stereo;
a second connector, electrically connected to the audio device of the secondary market, external to the car stereo;
a third connector electrically connected to one or more auxiliary input sources external to said automobile stereo system and aftermarket audio device,
an interface connected between said first and second electrical connectors for directing audio signals to the car stereo from an aftermarket audio device, said interface including a microcontroller in electrical connection with said first and second electrical connectors, wherein said microcontroller is pre-programmed to perform:
the first pre-programmed part of the code for remote control of the audio device of the secondary market, using the car stereo system by receiving control commands from the car stereo through the first connector in a format incompatible with the audio device of the secondary market, processing the received control command into a formatted command compatible with the audio device of the secondary market, and transmitting this formatted command to the aftermarket audio device through said second connection Tel to carry out with the help of audio device of the secondary market;
the second pre-programmed part of the code for receiving data from the audio device of the secondary market through the second connector in a format incompatible with the car stereo, processing the received data into formatted data compatible with the car stereo, and transmitting the formatted data to the car stereo through the first connector for display with using a car stereo, and
a third pre-programmed code portion for switching to one or more auxiliary input sources connected to said third electrical connector. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the car stereo is further a car stereo of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) connected to said first electrical connector. 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the car stereo is further a car market stereo system of the aftermarket connected to said first electrical connector. 4. The system according to claim 1, in which the audio device of the secondary market is additionally made in the form of a CD player, a CD changer, an MP3 player, a digital audio broadcasting receiver (DAB) or a satellite communications receiver connected to said second electrical connector. 5. The system of claim 1, wherein said interface further has a plug-and-play mode for automatically detecting a type of aftermarket audio device connected to said second electrical connector and integrating a aftermarket audio device based on the type of that device. 6. The system of claim 1, wherein said interface generates a CD device presence signal for maintaining the car stereo system in a state sensitive to processed data and audio signals. 7. The system according to claim 1, in which said second pre-programmed part of the code processes the data generated by the audio device of the secondary market, including a phonogram and time information. 8. The system according to claim 1, in which the said second pre-programmed part of the code processes the data generated by the audio device of the secondary market, including the song title and information about the artist. 9. The system according to claim 1, in which the said second pre-programmed part of the code processes the data generated by the audio device of the secondary market, including information about the channel number and channel name. 10. The system according to claim 1, in which said interface processes the video information generated by the audio device of the secondary market. 11. The system according to claim 1, in which the formatted data is displayed as a menu on the display of the car stereo. 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the display is a graphical panel. 13. The system according to claim 1, in which the commands are entered by the user using one or more control buttons or presets on the car stereo. 14. The system of claim 1, wherein the audio signals from one or more auxiliary input sources are selectively routed to the car stereo system by said interface. 15. The system according to claim 1, in which the user can choose between one or more auxiliary input sources by pressing keys on the car stereo. 16. The system according to claim 1, in which the user can select one of the auxiliary input sources by entering the disk number in the car stereo. 17. The system according to claim 1, in which the user can select one of the auxiliary input sources by entering the phonogram number in the car stereo. 18. The system according to claim 1, in which the user can select one of the auxiliary input sources by entering both the disc and the phonogram number in the car stereo. 19. The system according to claim 1, in which the user can choose between the aforementioned audio device and one or more auxiliary input sources by entering a sequence of button presses into the car stereo. 20. The system of claim 19, wherein said sequence comprises selecting a phonogram and then selecting a previous track. 21. The system of claim 1, further comprising a second interface coupled to said interface to provide a plurality of auxiliary input sources. 22. The system of claim 21, wherein both said first interface and said second interface are controllable using the car stereo. 23. The integration system of auxiliary audio devices, containing:
a first electrical connector connected to the car stereo; a plurality of auxiliary electrical connectors connected to the plurality of auxiliary input sources;
an interface connected between said first electrical connector and said plurality of auxiliary electrical connectors for directing audio signals from at least one of said plurality of auxiliary input sources to the car stereo system, said interface including a microcontroller in electrical connection with said first electrical connector and said plurality of auxiliary electrical connectors, This microcontroller is pre-programmed to perform:
a first pre-programmed code portion for remotely controlling at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources using the car stereo system by receiving a control command from the car stereo via said first electrical connector in a format incompatible with at least one of the many auxiliary input sources processing the received control command into a formatted control command compatible with at least e by one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources, and transmitting a formatted control command to at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources through at least one of the plurality of auxiliary electrical connectors for execution by at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources;
a second pre-programmed part of the code for receiving data from at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources through at least one of the plurality of auxiliary electrical connectors in a format incompatible with the car stereo, processing the received data into formatted data compatible with the car stereo, and transmitting this formatted data to the car stereo through said first electrical connector for displaying av omobilnoy stereo system, and
the third pre-programmed part of the code to select one of the many auxiliary input sources from the car stereo. 24. The system of claim 23, wherein said pre-programmed portion of the code for selecting one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources processes the selection of a disc or soundtrack entered by a user using the car stereo control buttons to select one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources. 25. The system of claim 23, wherein at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources is in the form of a CD player, a CD changer, an MP3 player, a satellite receiver, or a digital audio broadcast receiver (DAB) connected to one of said plurality of auxiliary electrical connectors. 26. The system of claim 23, wherein the device type of at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources is automatically detected by said interface, and at least one of the plurality of auxiliary input sources is automatically integrated with the car stereo based on this type of device. 27. The system according to item 23, in which the interface can switch to auxiliary input by issuing a control sequence in the car stereo. 28. The system of claim 27, wherein the control sequence comprises a command for selecting the next phonogram followed by a command for selecting the previous phonogram. 29. A method of integrating a secondary market device with a car stereo, comprising the steps of:
providing an interface having a first electrical connector connected to the car stereo, a second electrical connector connected to the aftermarket device external to the car stereo, a third electrical connector connected to an auxiliary input source, and a pre-programmed microcontroller located in said interface,
connecting said first electrical connector to the car stereo, said second electrical connector to said aftermarket device external to said car stereo, said third electrical connector to an auxiliary input source external to the car stereo and secondary market device;
remote control of the aftermarket device using the car stereo system using:
receiving control commands from the car stereo in the interface through said first electrical connector in a format incompatible with the secondary market device, and
processing said control commands into formatted control commands compatible with the secondary market device using the first pre-programmed code portion pre-programmed into and executed by said microcontroller and dispatching the formatted control commands to the secondary market device via said second electrical connection;
receiving data in a format incompatible with the car stereo through said second electrical connector and audio data from a secondary market device in an interface;
processing said data into formatted data compatible with the car stereo using the second pre-programmed part of the code pre-programmed into and executed by said microcontroller and dispatching audio data and formatted data to the car stereo through said first electrical connector; and
displaying the formatted data on the car stereo and playing audio data through the car stereo, and
playback of audio data from the device of the secondary market through the car stereo. 30. The method according to clause 29, wherein the step of receiving data from said device comprises extracting a CD track and time information from the device. 31. The method according to clause 29, wherein the step of receiving data from the device comprises extracting an MP3 song, title, track, and time information from the device. 32. The method according to clause 29, in which the step of receiving data from the device comprises extracting the channel number, channel name, artist and song information from the device. 33. The method according to clause 29, wherein the step of receiving data from said device comprises extracting video information from this device. 34. The method according to clause 29, in which the step of displaying formatted data comprises displaying data on an LCD panel. 35. The method according to clause 29, wherein the step of displaying formatted data comprises displaying data in a graphical user interface in a car stereo system. 36. The method according to clause 29, in which the step of displaying formatted data comprises displaying a video in a car stereo. 37. The method according to clause 29, wherein the step of connecting the secondary market device to said second electrical connector comprises connecting a CD player, CD changer, MP3 player, satellite receiver or digital audio broadcast receiver (DAB) to said second electrical connector. 38. The method according to clause 29, further comprising receiving a selection command from the car stereo and directing data and audio from the auxiliary input source to said interface in response to the selection command. 39. The method according to § 38, further comprising processing data from an auxiliary input source for display on the car stereo. 40. A device for connecting to the installation part of a portable device for integration with a car stereo system, comprising:
a storage area remote from the car stereo for locating a portable device;
an installation part in said storage area for connection and physical alignment with a portable device; and
a data transmission port in electrical connection with said installation part, the data transmission port being connected to a device for integrating the portable device with the car stereo, and
an interface connected to said data port and the car stereo, the interface directing audio data from the portable device to the car stereo, said interface including a microcontroller electrically connected to the portable device via said data port and the car stereo, the microcontroller is pre-programmed to execute the first program code for remote control of a portable device Using the car stereo system by processing control commands generated by the car stereo system in a format incompatible with the portable device, into formatted control commands compatible with the portable device, and dispatching the formatted control commands to the portable device to execute it. 41. The device according to p, in which said storage area further comprises an upper element, a lower element and a hinge for connecting the upper element and the lower element along their border. 42. The device according to p. 40, in which the data port is RS-232 or universal serial bus (USB) port. 43. The device according to p, in which the storage area further comprises an upper part and a lower part defining a housing for holding said portable device. 44. The device according to paragraph 41, further comprising a clip for holding said upper and lower elements in a closed position. 45. A method of integrating a secondary market device with a car stereo system of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or secondary market equipment, comprising the steps of:
providing an interface having a first electrical connector, a second electrical connector, and a microcontroller located in said interface and in electrical connection with said first and second electrical connectors;
connecting the aftermarket device to said first electrical connector;
connecting said second electrical connector to the car stereo;
determining whether an OEM car stereo is a car stereo or aftermarket car stereo;
generating and transmitting a device presence signal to the car stereo using the first part of the code pre-programmed into and executed in the microcontroller to maintain the car stereo in working condition that responds to signals generated by the secondary market device, the device presence signal being based on the car stereo; and
directing audio signals from the aftermarket device to the car stereo using the interface. 46. The method according to item 45, further comprising receiving control commands from the car stereo in said interface in a format incompatible with the secondary market device. 47. The method according to item 46, further comprising converting control commands into a format recognized by the audio device of the secondary market, using the second part of the code pre-programmed into and executed in the microcontroller. 48. The method according to clause 47, further comprising dispatching formatted commands for the audio device of the secondary market to execute it. 49. The method according to item 45, further comprising converting the data received in the interface from the audio devices of the secondary market in a format incompatible with the device of the secondary market, in a format compatible with the car stereo system, using the third part of the code pre-programmed into and executed by the microcontroller. 50. The method according to 49, further comprising displaying formatted data on the car stereo. 51. The method of claim 50, wherein the step of displaying the formatted data comprises displaying channel numbers, channel names, titles, phonograms, song names, or artist names on the car stereo. 52. The method of claim 50, wherein the step of displaying formatted data comprises displaying a video on a car stereo. 53. A docking station for installing and integrating a portable device for use with a car stereo system, comprising:
a main part for receiving a portable device external to the car stereo;
a lower element connected to the main part and defining a volume for accommodating the portable device; and
an integration device installed in the main part for integrating a portable device with a car stereo system,
moreover, the docking station is located remotely from the car stereo. 54. The docking station according to claim 53, further comprising an upper element articulated at a boundary to the main body. 55. The docking station according to item 53, in which the main part contains a connector for connecting the integration device with a portable device. 56. The docking station of claim 53, further comprising a cable connected at one end to the integration device and the opposite end to the car stereo. 57. The docking station according to item 53, in which the integration device is wirelessly connected to the car stereo. 58. The docking station of claim 53, wherein the portable device is in the form of a CD player, a CD changer, an MP3 player, a digital audio broadcasting receiver (DAB), a portable video device, or a satellite communications receiver. 59. The docking station according to item 53, in which the integration device contains a circuit board located in the main part. 60. The docking station according to item 53, in which the docking station can be installed in the luggage compartment of the vehicle. 61. The docking station of claim 53, wherein the upper element is rotatable from the lower element to provide access to a portable audio device. 62. The docking station of claim 53, wherein the integration device is connected to the car stereo using a bus connection. 63. The docking station of claim 53, wherein the car stereo is a car stereo system of an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or an aftermarket equipment. 64. The docking station of claim 53, further comprising one or more auxiliary input ports connected to an integration device for integrating additional portable devices external to the docking station. 65. A method for connecting to an installation part and integrating a portable device for use with a car stereo, comprising the steps of:
provide a docking station having a main part, a lower element connected to the main part, and an integration device located in the main part;
insert the portable device into the dock and attach the portable device to the connector on the main part;
position the docking station remotely with respect to the car stereo, and
integrate the portable device with the integration device for use with the car stereo. 66. The method according to item 65, further comprising providing an upper element connected to the main part and rotated from the lower element before inserting the portable device into the dock. 67. The method of claim 65, further comprising closing the top member to store the portable device in the dock. 68. The method according to p, optionally containing a cable connection of the integration device with the car stereo. 69. The method of claim 65, further comprising establishing a wireless connection between the integration device and the car stereo. 70. The method of claim 65, further comprising integrating a CD player, a CD changer, an MP3 player, a digital audio broadcasting receiver (DAB), a portable video device, or a satellite receiver with a car stereo. 71. The method according to item 65, further comprising installing a docking station in the luggage compartment of the vehicle. 72. The method of claim 65, further comprising connecting the integration device to the car stereo using a bus connection. 73. The method of claim 65, further comprising integrating the portable device with the aftermarket car stereo or original equipment manufacturer (OEM). 74. The method according to item 65, further comprising connecting an external portable device to the auxiliary input port on the docking station and integrating the external portable device with the car stereo.
Priority on points: 12/11/2002 according to claims 1-52; November 20, 2003 according to claims 53-74.

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