In-car Loudspeaker Array Positioning

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a spatial audio system for vehicles, where an array of audio transducers (such as loudspeakers or microphones) is integrated into the sun visor or the headlining of the car. By positioning the loudspeaker array close to the occupants' heads, especially in the area near the sun visor, the system improves directional sound reproduction, enabling advanced audio effects such as surround sound or multizone audio directly for the driver and passengers. The system adapts the audio output based on the position of the sun visor, using sensors to optimize sound quality in both open and closed positions.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Personalized surround sound or 3D audio for each car occupant.
• Private or targeted audio zones (e.g., different music for the driver and passenger).
• Enhanced in-car communication, such as clear navigation or voice assistant instructions directed only to specific seats.
• Noise-cancelling or active sound management, using microphones integrated with the arrays.
• Entertainment or infotainment systems in both luxury and standard vehicles.
• Hands-free telephony with improved voice focus and clarity.
• Vehicle safety alerts directed only to relevant passengers.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables accurate, immersive spatial audio in vehicles without taking up extra cabin space.
• Optimal speaker placement near the occupants' heads for higher sound quality and clarity.
• Supports advanced audio features like beamforming, spotforming, and multizone playback.
• Minimal impact on the vehicle's design and maintains unobstructed view through the windshield.
• Allows dynamic audio adjustment based on the sun visor's position, ensuring consistent experience.
• Can combine loudspeaker and microphone arrays for both playback and capture (e.g., for hands-free calls or noise cancellation).
• Can be implemented in both new and existing vehicle models, expanding audio system possibilities.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

Spatial audio transducer system comprises a sun visor (18a, 18b) of a vehicle (10) and a spatial audio transducer array (20a, 20b). The array (20a, 20b) comprises at least three individual audio transducers, wherein the spatial audio transducer array (20a, 20b) is integrated into the sun visor (18a, 18b) or into a headlining of the vehicle (10) such that same overlaps at least partially with the sun visor (18a, 18b) at a closed position of the sun visor (18a, 18b).