WO2014162184A1 - Car audio apparatus and control method for the same - Google Patents

Car audio apparatus and control method for the same Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2014162184A1
WO2014162184A1 PCT/IB2014/000424 IB2014000424W WO2014162184A1 WO 2014162184 A1 WO2014162184 A1 WO 2014162184A1 IB 2014000424 W IB2014000424 W IB 2014000424W WO 2014162184 A1 WO2014162184 A1 WO 2014162184A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
control
engine
car audio
audio apparatus
range
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2014/000424
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2014162184A8 (en
Inventor
Hiromi NAKAO
Yasuhisa NAGASHIMA
Original Assignee
Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
Harman International Industries, Incorporated
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Harman International Industries, Incorporated filed Critical Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
Publication of WO2014162184A1 publication Critical patent/WO2014162184A1/en
Publication of WO2014162184A8 publication Critical patent/WO2014162184A8/en

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03G—CONTROL OF AMPLIFICATION
    • H03G5/00—Tone control or bandwidth control in amplifiers
    • H03G5/16—Automatic control
    • H03G5/18—Automatic control in untuned amplifiers
    • H03G5/22—Automatic control in untuned amplifiers having semiconductor devices
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
    • G10L—SPEECH ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES OR SPEECH SYNTHESIS; SPEECH RECOGNITION; SPEECH OR VOICE PROCESSING TECHNIQUES; SPEECH OR AUDIO CODING OR DECODING
    • G10L21/00—Speech or voice signal processing techniques to produce another audible or non-audible signal, e.g. visual or tactile, in order to modify its quality or its intelligibility
    • G10L21/02—Speech enhancement, e.g. noise reduction or echo cancellation
    • G10L21/0316—Speech enhancement, e.g. noise reduction or echo cancellation by changing the amplitude
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03G—CONTROL OF AMPLIFICATION
    • H03G5/00—Tone control or bandwidth control in amplifiers
    • H03G5/16—Automatic control
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G10—MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS; ACOUSTICS
    • G10L—SPEECH ANALYSIS TECHNIQUES OR SPEECH SYNTHESIS; SPEECH RECOGNITION; SPEECH OR VOICE PROCESSING TECHNIQUES; SPEECH OR AUDIO CODING OR DECODING
    • G10L25/00—Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups G10L15/00 - G10L21/00
    • G10L25/03—Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups G10L15/00 - G10L21/00 characterised by the type of extracted parameters
    • G10L25/18—Speech or voice analysis techniques not restricted to a single one of groups G10L15/00 - G10L21/00 characterised by the type of extracted parameters the extracted parameters being spectral information of each sub-band

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a car audio apparatus and a control method for the car audio apparatus.
  • a booster unit such as a back-up boost converter (BBC) is used to boost the voltage of the battery so as to ensure an operating voltage of the car audio.
  • BBC back-up boost converter
  • the boosting capacity of the back-up boost converter may not be able to ensure the operating voltage of the car audio and may still cause sound interruption or similar problem.
  • Ensuring improvement in boosting capacity of a back-up boost converter (BBC) causes problems such as an increase in heat generation amount and an increase in cost.
  • JP 2011-244182 A discloses a technique that controls an electronic volume to decrease a set value to a value less than a predetermined value in the case where an idling stop is determined to start and the set sound volume of the electronic volume is equal to or more than the predetermined value in an idling-stop vehicle.
  • JP 8-23641 A discloses a technique that detects an engine start based on a voltage signal from an ignition terminal of a key switch and uses this detection signal to control the output of a car audio to be reduced to a predetermined level.
  • the present invention provides a car audio apparatus that provides a voice with a sound volume at a constant level even at the time of engine start.
  • a car audio apparatus receives electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine is started.
  • the car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is started.
  • a car audio apparatus -receives electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine is started.
  • the car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is stopped and electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus from the battery.
  • a car audio apparatus mounted on an idling-stop vehicle, the car audio apparatus receiving electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine in stop is restarted.
  • the car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the idling-stop vehicle is in an idling-stop mode.
  • a control method for a car audio apparatus that receives power supply from a battery that supplies power to a starter to start a vehicle engine.
  • the method includes: detecting a start of a start control for the engine; and performing a first control to reduce and output a sound of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output from a sound source in a case where the start of the start control of the engine is detected.
  • a voice with a constant volume level is provided at the time of the engine start.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a vehicle with a car audio apparatus
  • FIGs. 2A to 2C are flowcharts of controls according to a first embodiment
  • FIG. 3 is an exemplary output frequency characteristic of a sound source on which a first control according to this embodiment is performed
  • FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating an exemplary relationship between a current consumption amount and an output frequency of the car audio apparatus according to this embodiment
  • FIG. 5 is an exemplary output frequency characteristic of a sound source on which the first control and a second control according to this embodiment are performed;
  • FIGs. 6A to 6C are flowcharts of controls according to the second embodiment
  • FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an idling-stop vehicle with the car audio apparatus
  • FIGs. 8A to 8C are flowcharts of controls according to a third embodiment
  • FIGs. 9 A to 9C are flowcharts of controls according to a fourth embodiment; and FIGs. 10A to I OC are flowcharts of controls according to a fifth embodiment.
  • FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a vehicle with a car audio apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.
  • the car audio apparatus 100 includes a main unit 101 , an amplifier 102, a speaker 103, and similar units.
  • the main unit 101 includes a receiving unit (not illustrated), a control unit (not illustrated), a sound source, and similar units.
  • the receiving unit receives a vehicle signal through a vehicle LAN (not illustrated) and similar network.
  • the control unit outputs a control signal to the amplifier 102.
  • the main unit 101 outputs a voice signal of the sound source to the amplifier 102.
  • the control unit of the main unit 101 outputs, for example, a control signal and similar signals for controlling a frequency characteristic of the sound output by the amplifier 102 through the speaker 103 to the amplifier 102.
  • the sound source does not only include the sound source such as a CD, a DVD, and a hard disk inside of the main unit 101 , but also includes, for example, a sound source of a received radio broadcasting signal and a sound source input from an external digital music player or similar device to the main unit 101 .
  • the amplifier 102 amplifies the voice signal of the sound source input from the main unit 101 and outputs the amplified signal to the speaker 103. Additionally, the amplifier 102 includes an equalizer (not illustrated) to perform, for example, a control for the frequency characteristic of the voice signal output to the speaker 103 based on the control signal from the main unit 101 .
  • the equalizer may have a configuration that is provided with the main unit 101 to control the frequency characteristic at the main unit 101 and output the controlled voice signal of the sound source to the amplifier 102, or similar configuration. Alternatively, the equalizer may have a configuration where the main unit 101 includes the function of the amplifier 102 or similar configuration.
  • the speaker 103 plays back the voice based on the voice signal output from the amplifier 102.
  • a vehicle includes elements of a battery 1 10, an engine 120, a starter 130, a back-up boost converter (BBC) 140, an ignition switch 150, an accessory switch 155, and similar member.
  • BBC back-up boost converter
  • the battery 1 10 is a power source to supply electric power to a vehicle-mounted electrical load. According to FIG. 1 , the electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus 100 and the starter 130, and the other loads are omitted.
  • the battery 1 10 employs a secondary battery such as a lead battery and a lithium-ion battery, but is not limited to these batteries.
  • the starter 130 is means for starting the engine 120 and includes an electric motor and similar member.
  • the back-up boost converter 140 is voltage compensation means that boosts the voltage for electric power supply in the case where the output voltage from the battery 1 10 decreases, and supplies the boosted electric power to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar member. For example, when the engine 120 is started, a large current flows to the starter 130, and the voltage of the battery 1 10 is temporarily reduced. Therefore, to reduce troubles such as sound interruption of the car audio apparatus 100 due to the reduction in voltage, electric power is supplied at a predetermined value or more.
  • a possible configuration is that the back-up boost converter 140 is not provided and the battery 1 10 supplies electric power directly to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar member.
  • the ignition switch 150 outputs an ignition-on or ignition-off signal.
  • the accessory switch 155 is a switch for supplying electric power to the vehicle-mounted electrical load in a state where the engine 120 is stopped, and outputs an on or off signal.
  • FIGs. 2A to 2C are flowcharts of the controls according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations.
  • step S i l l an ON signal input through the vehicle LAN (not illustrated) is received from the ignition switch 150. Accordingly, the main unit 101 detects a start of the engine 120. Subsequently, in step S I 12, the main unit 101 outputs a control signal to the amplifier 102.
  • the amplifier 102 performs a first control that controls the frequency characteristic of the voice signal of the sound source input from the main unit 101 to the amplifier 102 using an equalizer (not illustrated) corresponding to this control signal.
  • the start of the engine 120 include not only a start of the engine
  • the engine 120 for example, initially performed after the driver gets in the vehicle, but also the case where the engine 120 is once stopped and is restarted from a state where electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar case.
  • the first control is a control that changes the output level of a frequency in a specific first range in the frequency bandwidth of the voice signal of the sound source.
  • the voice signal with the changed frequency characteristic by the control is amplified and then output to the speaker 103. Subsequently, the voice signal is played back by the speaker 103.
  • the first control for example, an output level of a frequency in a first range of 50 Hz to 100 Hz in the frequency bandwidth of the voice signal of the sound source is controlled to become close to a predetermined value lower than the output level of the original voice signal of the sound source.
  • FIG. 3 is an exemplary first control according to this embodiment.
  • the output level of the voice signal is lower than the output level of the original voice signal of the sound source. [0034] As illustrated in FIG. 4, this is based on a current consumption amount is likely to be large in a bandwidth of low frequency. Accordingly, the output level of the frequency in the bandwidth of low frequency, for example, 50 Hz to 100 Hz is reduced to the low predetermined value. This allows efficiently reducing the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100.
  • the predetermined value of the first control can be set taking into consideration the current consumption amount to be reduced, the difficulty for the driver or similar person to notice the change in sound quality, and similar parameter. This can maintain the product quality.
  • step S I 13 when a signal from an engine ECU (not illustrated) is received through the vehicle LAN and the completion of the start of the engine 120 is detected, the first control is terminated in step S I 14.
  • step S I 12 of the first embodiment A a second control described later is performed simultaneously with the first control.
  • step S 121 When the start of the engine 120 is detected in step S 121 , the first control and the second control are performed in step S I 22.
  • the first control is the same as the control in the first embodiment A.
  • the second control outputs a control signal to the amplifier 102 and controls the frequency characteristic of the voice signal of the sound source input from the main unit 101 using the equalizer.
  • a range is divided into a second range adjacent to the above-described first range and a third range adjacent to the second range.
  • a frequency bandwidth in the first range may be the lowest.
  • the second range may be adjacent to the first range at the high frequency side.
  • the third range may be adjacent to the second range at the high frequency side.
  • An output level of a frequency in the second range is changed by control so as to have the medium value between the output level of the frequency in the first range and the output level of the frequency in the third range.
  • the voice signal with the changed frequency characteristic is output to the speaker 103 after the voice signal is amplified, and the output voice signal is played back by the speaker 103.
  • FIG. 5 is an exemplary output frequency characteristic on which the first control and the second control according to this embodiment are performed. As illustrated in FIG. 5, performing the second control in addition to the first control allows continuously changing the output level of in the range of 50 Hz to 100 Hz that corresponds to the first range and changing the output level in the range equal to or more than 100 Hz that corresponds to the second range and the third range.
  • step S I 23 When the signal from the engine ECU is received through the vehicle LAN or similar network and the completion of the start of the engine 120 is detected in step S I 23, the first control and the second control are terminated in step S I 24.
  • the first embodiment B additionally employs a step for determining whether to abort the first control and the second control.
  • the first control and the second control are the same as those in the first embodiments A and B. The following mainly describes difference from the first embodiment B.
  • step S I 3 1 When a start of the engine 120 is detected in step S I 3 1 , it is determined whether the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 at this time is equal to or less than a predetermined value in step S I 32. When this current consumption amount is equal to or less than the predetermined value, the executions of the first control and the second control are aborted and the first control and the second control are terminated in step S I 35.
  • step S I 33 the first control and the second control are performed similarly to the case of the first embodiment B.
  • Steps S 134 and S 135 are similar to those in the first embodiment B.
  • FIG. 2C illustrates the first embodiment B with the addition of step S I 32
  • a step corresponding to step S I 32 may be added to the first embodiment A.
  • a vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to the second embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment and is described by FIG. 1. Thus, the description will be omitted.
  • FIGs. 6A to 6C are flowcharts of controls according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations. The following mainly describes difference from the first embodiment.
  • step S212 an ON signal input from the accessory switch 155 through the vehicle LAN (not illustrated) is received in step S21 1 so as to detect an accessory state of the vehicle. Therefore, in step S212, the first control that is the same as that of the above-described first embodiment A is performed.
  • the accessory state indicates a state where the engine 120 is stopped and electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar member.
  • the stop of the engine includes not only the case where the engine is stopped from a vehicle-running state, but also all the states where the engine does not operate, for example, before running.
  • Performing this first control allows reducing the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 even when the car audio apparatus 100 is used before the engine 120 is started. This allows more reliably reducing the sound interruption or similar problem in the case where the engine 120 is started afterward.
  • the output levels of the frequency bandwidths other than the first range are not changed.
  • the predetermined value of the first control can be set taking into consideration the current consumption amount to be reduced, the difficulty for the driver or similar person to notice the change in sound quality, and similar parameter. This can maintain the product quality.
  • the current consumption amount is reduced when the car audio apparatus 100 is used in the accessory state. This can prevent the flat battery of the battery 1 10 or similar problem.
  • Steps S213 and S214 are similar to steps S I 13 and S I 14 in the first embodiment A.
  • the second control that is the same as that of the above-described first embodiment B is performed simultaneously with the first control in step S212 in the second embodiment A.
  • steps other than this step are similar to those in the second embodiment A.
  • the first control is the same as that in the second embodiment A. The following mainly describes difference from the ' second embodiment A.
  • step S212 allows continuously changing the output level in the above-described first range, second range, and third range in the frequency bandwidth of the sound source. This can improve the sound quality and more efficiently can maintain the product quality. Subsequently, the output level in the second range is also reduced. This is also able to reduce the current consumption amount, thus more efficiently reducing the sound interruption or similar problem.
  • FIG. 6C illustrates the second embodiment B with the addition of a step for determining whether to abort the first control and the second control.
  • steps other than this step are similar to those in the second embodiment B.
  • the first control and the second control are the same as those in the second embodiments A and B. The following mainly describes difference from the second embodiment B.
  • step S231 When the accessory state of the vehicle is detected in step S231 , it is determined whether the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 is equal to or less than the predetermined value in step S232.
  • step S233 it is determined whether the completion of the start of the engine is detected. In the case where the completion of the start of the engine is not detected, the process returns to step S232 and the determination in step S232 is performed again. As long as this current consumption amount is equal to or less than the predetermined value and the start of the engine is not completed, the determinations in step S232 and step S233 are repeated. In the case where the completion of the start of the engine is detected in step S233, the process proceeds to step S236 and the first control and the second control are terminated.
  • step S234 the process proceeds to step S234 and performs the above-described first control and second control. Subsequently, when the completion of the start of the engine is detected in step S235, the first control and the second control are terminated in step S236.
  • the first control and the second control are aborted. This does not change the sound quality and more efficiently can maintain the product quality.
  • the first control and the second control can be performed. This can reduce the sound interruption or similar problem at the time of engine start.
  • FIG. 6C illustrates the second embodiment B with the addition of steps S232 and S233
  • steps corresponding to steps S232 and S233 may be added to the second embodiment A.
  • FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an idling-stop vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to this embodiment.
  • the idling-stop vehicle is a vehicle in which an idling-stop system is mounted.
  • the idling-stop system has a function that automatically stops the engine when a predetermined engine-stop condition for stopping the engine is satisfied in the case where, for example, the vehicle is stopped due to waiting for a traffic light and similar reason.
  • the idling-stop system has a function that activates the starter and automatically restarts the engine when a predetermined engine-restart condition for restarting the engine is satisfied after the engine is stopped.
  • a car audio apparatus 200 includes a main unit 201 , an amplifier 202, a speaker 203, and similar member in a configuration similar to that of the car audio apparatus 100 according to the first and second embodiments.
  • the idling-stop vehicle includes elements of a battery 210, an engine 220, a starter 230, a back-up boost converter (BBC) 240, an idling-stop ECU 250, and similar member.
  • BBC back-up boost converter
  • the idling-stop ECU 250 receives a vehicle state signal indicative of a vehicle speed, a brake pedal depression amount, a battery charged percentage of the battery 210, or similar state through the vehicle LAN (not illustrated) or similar network. Based on these, a control for idling stop or restart of the idling stop is performed. As described above, the engine is stopped when the predetermined engine-stop condition for stopping the engine 220 is satisfied. After the engine is stopped, when the predetermined engine-restart condition for restarting the engine 220 is satisfied, the starter 230 is activated and the engine 220 is started.
  • the idling-stop ECU 250 outputs a signal for transmitting information that the idling is stopped in the vehicle or a signal for transmitting information that the idling is restarted at the time of idling stop or at the time of the restart of the idling stop, to the main unit 201 .
  • FIGs. 8A to 8C are flowcharts of controls according to this embodiment, and illustrate three control configurations.
  • step S 1 1 1 for detecting the start of the engine in the first embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S3 1 1 ) for detecting the restart of the idling stop.
  • step S I 1 3) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S313) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the first embodiment A.
  • the first control perfonned in step S3 12 is the same as that in the first embodiment A.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 reduces troubles such as sound interruption while providing a difficulty for the driver to notice the change in sound quality.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality.
  • step S 121 for detecting the start of the engine in the first embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S321 ) for detecting the restart of the idling stop.
  • step S I 23 for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S323) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the first embodiment B.
  • the first control performed in step S322 is the same as that in the third embodiment A.
  • the second control is the same as that in the first embodiment B.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the third embodiment A.
  • step S I 31 for detecting the start of the engine of the first embodiment C is replaced by a step (step S331 ) for detecting the restart of the idling stop.
  • step S I 34 for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S334) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the first embodiment C.
  • the first control and the second control that are performed in step S333 are the same as those in the third embodiments A and B.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the third embodiments A and B.
  • FIG. 8C illustrates the third embodiment B with the addition of step S332, a step corresponding to step S332 may be added to the third embodiment A.
  • An idling-stop vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to the fourth embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the third embodiment and is described by FIG. 7. Thus, the description will be omitted.
  • FIGs. 9A to 9C are flowcharts of controls performed by the main unit 201 according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations.
  • step S21 1 for detecting the accessory state in the second embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S41 1 ) for detecting the idling stop.
  • step S213 for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S413) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop.
  • steps other than these steps are similar to those of the second embodiment A.
  • the first control performed in step S412 is the same as that in the second embodiment A.
  • step S412 performing the above-described first control in step S412 allows reducing the cun-ent consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 200 when the vehicle is in the idling-stop state. This can ensure the improved fuel efficiency and similar effect.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 reduces troubles such as sound interruption while providing a difficulty for the driver to notice the change in sound quality.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality.
  • step S221 for detecting the accessory state in the second embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S421 ) for detecting the idling stop.
  • step S223) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S423) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the second embodiment B.
  • the first control performed in step S422 is the same as that in the fourth embodiment A.
  • the second control is the same as that in the second embodiment B.
  • step S422 performs the above-described second control in the step S422 reduces the output level in the above-described second range, thus reducing the current consumption amount. This more efficiently can ensure the improved fuel efficiency and similar effect when the vehicle is in the idling-stop state.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fourth embodiment A.
  • step S23 1 for detecting the accessory state in the second embodiment C is replaced by a step (step S431 ) for detecting the idling stop.
  • step S235 for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S435) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those of the second embodiment C.
  • the first control and the second control that are performed in step S434 are the same as those in the fourth embodiments A and B.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fourth embodiments A and B.
  • FIG. 9C illustrates the fourth embodiment B with the addition of steps S432 and S433
  • steps corresponding to steps S432 and S433 may be added to the fourth embodiment A.
  • An idling-stop vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to the fifth embodiment has a configuration similar to those of the third and fourth embodiments and is described by FIG. 7. Thus, the description will be omitted.
  • FIGs. 10A to I OC are flowcharts of controls performed by the main unit 201 according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations of FIGs. 10A to I OC.
  • step S41 1 for detecting the idling stop in the fourth embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S51 1 ) for detecting an idling-stop mode.
  • step S413 for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop in the fourth embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S513) for detecting the termination of the idling-stop mode. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the fourth embodiment A.
  • the first control performed in step S512 is the same as that in the fourth embodiment A.
  • the idling-stop mode indicates a state where idling can be stopped if the vehicle is stopped at a traffic light, by satisfying a predetermined condition during running of the vehicle.
  • the idling-stop mode includes the case where the mode is selectable by the driver, the case where the mode is selectable by the controller or similar member provided with the vehicle that automatically determines based on the predetermined condition, and similar case. Additionally, in the specification where the controller or similar member automatically determines based on the predetermined condition for mode selection, the idling-stop mode may be terminated once at the time of the restart of the idling stop. In this case, the restart of the idling stop may be detected in step S513.
  • step S512 Performing the above-described first control in step S512 allows reducing the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 200 in a state where the vehicle is running in the idling-stop mode. This is more efficiently able to ensure the improved fuel efficiency and similar effect.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 can reduce troubles such as sound interruption while providing a difficulty for the driver to notice the change in sound quality.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the third and fourth embodiments.
  • step S421 for detecting the idling stop in the fourth embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S521 ) for detecting the idling-stop mode.
  • step S423) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop in the fourth embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S523) for detecting the termination of the idling-stop mode. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the fourth embodiment B.
  • the first control performed in step S522 is the same as that in the fifth embodiment A.
  • the second control is the same as that in the fourth embodiment B.
  • the idling-stop mode may be terminated once at the time of the restart of the idling stop.
  • the restart of the idling stop may be detected in step S523.
  • step S522 performing the above-described second control in step S522 reduces the output level in the above-described second range, thus reducing the current consumption amount. This is more efficiently being able to ensure the improved efficiency and similar effect when the vehicle is in the idling-stop mode.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fifth embodiment A.
  • step S43 1 for detecting the idling stop of the fourth embodiment C is replaced by a step (step S531 ) for detecting the idling-stop mode.
  • step S433 and S435) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop in the fourth embodiment B is replaced by a step (steps S533 and S535) for detecting the termination of the idling-stop mode. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the fourth embodiment C.
  • the first control and the second control that are performed in step S534 are the same as those in the fifth embodiments A and B.
  • the idling-stop mode may be terminated once at the time of the restart of the idling stop.
  • the restart of the idling stop may be detected in steps S533 and S535.
  • the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fifth embodiments A and B.
  • FIG. I OC illustrates the fifth embodiment B with the addition of steps S532 and S533
  • steps corresponding to steps S532 and S533 may be added to the fifth embodiment A.
  • the frequency characteristic may be set to the state before the first control is performed.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Quality & Reliability (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Audiology, Speech & Language Pathology (AREA)
  • Computational Linguistics (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Multimedia (AREA)
  • Control Of Vehicle Engines Or Engines For Specific Uses (AREA)
  • Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)
  • Circuit For Audible Band Transducer (AREA)
  • Tone Control, Compression And Expansion, Limiting Amplitude (AREA)

Abstract

A car audio apparatus (101) receives electric power supply from a battery (110) that supplies electric power to a starter (130) of an engine (120) when the engine is started. The car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is started.

Description

CAR AUDIO APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR THE SAME
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1 . Field of the Invention
[0001 ] The present invention relates to a car audio apparatus and a control method for the car audio apparatus.
2. Description of Related Art
[0002] At the time of engine start, a starter cranks an engine. At this time, a comparatively large current is supplied from a battery to the starter. This temporarily reduces the voltage of the battery. Accordingly, for example, in an idling-stop vehicle or similar vehicle, in the case where an engine is restarted in a state where a car audio is used after an engine stop, sound interruption or similar problem of the car audio may occur in association with this reduction in voltage of the battery.
[0003] As a countermeasure to this situation, in the idling-stop vehicle or similar vehicle, a booster unit such as a back-up boost converter (BBC) is used to boost the voltage of the battery so as to ensure an operating voltage of the car audio. However, in the case where the car audio outputs a sound with a large sound volume, the boosting capacity of the back-up boost converter may not be able to ensure the operating voltage of the car audio and may still cause sound interruption or similar problem. Ensuring improvement in boosting capacity of a back-up boost converter (BBC) causes problems such as an increase in heat generation amount and an increase in cost.
[0004] As a countermeasure against this problem, conventionally, a control for reducing the entire output level of the car audio is performed at the time of the engine start so as to reduce the current consumption amount of the car audio and prevents the sound interruption or similar problem.
[0005] For example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 201 1 -2441 82 (JP 2011-244182 A) discloses a technique that controls an electronic volume to decrease a set value to a value less than a predetermined value in the case where an idling stop is determined to start and the set sound volume of the electronic volume is equal to or more than the predetermined value in an idling-stop vehicle.
[0006] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 8-23641 (JP 8-23641 A) discloses a technique that detects an engine start based on a voltage signal from an ignition terminal of a key switch and uses this detection signal to control the output of a car audio to be reduced to a predetermined level.
[0007] However, the above-described technique reduces the entire output level of the car audio at the time of the engine start. This cannot provide a voice with a constant volume level at the time of the engine start. Especially, the idling-stop vehicle may frequently repeat stopping and restarting the engine. Thus, the sound volume decreases every time. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides a car audio apparatus that provides a voice with a sound volume at a constant level even at the time of engine start.
[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a car audio apparatus receives electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine is started. The car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is started.
[0010] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a car audio apparatus-receives electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine is started. The car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is stopped and electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus from the battery.
[0011] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a car audio apparatus mounted on an idling-stop vehicle, the car audio apparatus receiving electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine in stop is restarted. The car audio apparatus includes a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the idling-stop vehicle is in an idling-stop mode.
[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a control method for a car audio apparatus that receives power supply from a battery that supplies power to a starter to start a vehicle engine. The method includes: detecting a start of a start control for the engine; and performing a first control to reduce and output a sound of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output from a sound source in a case where the start of the start control of the engine is detected.
[0013] According to the aspects described above, a voice with a constant volume level is provided at the time of the engine start.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Features, advantages, and technical and industrial significance of exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals denote like elements, and wherein:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a vehicle with a car audio apparatus;
FIGs. 2A to 2C are flowcharts of controls according to a first embodiment;
FIG. 3 is an exemplary output frequency characteristic of a sound source on which a first control according to this embodiment is performed;
FIG. 4 is a graph illustrating an exemplary relationship between a current consumption amount and an output frequency of the car audio apparatus according to this embodiment;
FIG. 5 is an exemplary output frequency characteristic of a sound source on which the first control and a second control according to this embodiment are performed;
FIGs. 6A to 6C are flowcharts of controls according to the second embodiment; FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an idling-stop vehicle with the car audio apparatus; FIGs. 8A to 8C are flowcharts of controls according to a third embodiment;
FIGs. 9 A to 9C are flowcharts of controls according to a fourth embodiment; and FIGs. 10A to I OC are flowcharts of controls according to a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0015] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below by referring to the accompanying drawings.
[First Embodiment]
[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a vehicle with a car audio apparatus 100 according to this embodiment.
[0017] Referring to FIG. 1 , the car audio apparatus 100 includes a main unit 101 , an amplifier 102, a speaker 103, and similar units.
[0018] The main unit 101 includes a receiving unit (not illustrated), a control unit (not illustrated), a sound source, and similar units. The receiving unit receives a vehicle signal through a vehicle LAN (not illustrated) and similar network. The control unit outputs a control signal to the amplifier 102. The main unit 101 outputs a voice signal of the sound source to the amplifier 102. The control unit of the main unit 101 outputs, for example, a control signal and similar signals for controlling a frequency characteristic of the sound output by the amplifier 102 through the speaker 103 to the amplifier 102.
[0019] Here, the sound source does not only include the sound source such as a CD, a DVD, and a hard disk inside of the main unit 101 , but also includes, for example, a sound source of a received radio broadcasting signal and a sound source input from an external digital music player or similar device to the main unit 101 .
[0020] The amplifier 102 amplifies the voice signal of the sound source input from the main unit 101 and outputs the amplified signal to the speaker 103. Additionally, the amplifier 102 includes an equalizer (not illustrated) to perform, for example, a control for the frequency characteristic of the voice signal output to the speaker 103 based on the control signal from the main unit 101 . [0021 ] Here, the equalizer may have a configuration that is provided with the main unit 101 to control the frequency characteristic at the main unit 101 and output the controlled voice signal of the sound source to the amplifier 102, or similar configuration. Alternatively, the equalizer may have a configuration where the main unit 101 includes the function of the amplifier 102 or similar configuration.
[0022] The speaker 103 plays back the voice based on the voice signal output from the amplifier 102.
[0023] Generally, a vehicle includes elements of a battery 1 10, an engine 120, a starter 130, a back-up boost converter (BBC) 140, an ignition switch 150, an accessory switch 155, and similar member.
[0024] The battery 1 10 is a power source to supply electric power to a vehicle-mounted electrical load. According to FIG. 1 , the electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus 100 and the starter 130, and the other loads are omitted. Here, the battery 1 10 employs a secondary battery such as a lead battery and a lithium-ion battery, but is not limited to these batteries.
[0025] The starter 130 is means for starting the engine 120 and includes an electric motor and similar member.
[0026] The back-up boost converter 140 is voltage compensation means that boosts the voltage for electric power supply in the case where the output voltage from the battery 1 10 decreases, and supplies the boosted electric power to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar member. For example, when the engine 120 is started, a large current flows to the starter 130, and the voltage of the battery 1 10 is temporarily reduced. Therefore, to reduce troubles such as sound interruption of the car audio apparatus 100 due to the reduction in voltage, electric power is supplied at a predetermined value or more. Here, a possible configuration is that the back-up boost converter 140 is not provided and the battery 1 10 supplies electric power directly to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar member.
[0027] The ignition switch 150 outputs an ignition-on or ignition-off signal.
[0028] The accessory switch 155 is a switch for supplying electric power to the vehicle-mounted electrical load in a state where the engine 120 is stopped, and outputs an on or off signal.
[0029] Next, a control step performed by the main unit 101 will be described by referring to FIGs. 2A to 2C.
[0030] FIGs. 2A to 2C are flowcharts of the controls according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations.
<First Embodiment A>
[0031] In FIG. 2A, in step S i l l , an ON signal input through the vehicle LAN (not illustrated) is received from the ignition switch 150. Accordingly, the main unit 101 detects a start of the engine 120. Subsequently, in step S I 12, the main unit 101 outputs a control signal to the amplifier 102. The amplifier 102 performs a first control that controls the frequency characteristic of the voice signal of the sound source input from the main unit 101 to the amplifier 102 using an equalizer (not illustrated) corresponding to this control signal.
[0032] Here, the start of the engine 120 include not only a start of the engine
120, for example, initially performed after the driver gets in the vehicle, but also the case where the engine 120 is once stopped and is restarted from a state where electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar case.
[0033] The first control is a control that changes the output level of a frequency in a specific first range in the frequency bandwidth of the voice signal of the sound source. The voice signal with the changed frequency characteristic by the control is amplified and then output to the speaker 103. Subsequently, the voice signal is played back by the speaker 103. As the first control, for example, an output level of a frequency in a first range of 50 Hz to 100 Hz in the frequency bandwidth of the voice signal of the sound source is controlled to become close to a predetermined value lower than the output level of the original voice signal of the sound source. FIG. 3 is an exemplary first control according to this embodiment. In the range of 50 Hz to 100 Hz, the output level of the voice signal is lower than the output level of the original voice signal of the sound source. [0034] As illustrated in FIG. 4, this is based on a current consumption amount is likely to be large in a bandwidth of low frequency. Accordingly, the output level of the frequency in the bandwidth of low frequency, for example, 50 Hz to 100 Hz is reduced to the low predetermined value. This allows efficiently reducing the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100.
[0035] Accordingly, when the large current flows to the starter 130 at the time of the start of the engine 120 and the voltage of the battery 1 10 is temporarily reduced, the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 is efficiently reduced. This reduces the sound interruption or similar problem. Additionally, the output level in the frequency bandwidth other than the first range is designed to be the same. This does not cause considerable reduction in sound volume and can maintain the product quality.
[0036] Additionally, the predetermined value of the first control can be set taking into consideration the current consumption amount to be reduced, the difficulty for the driver or similar person to notice the change in sound quality, and similar parameter. This can maintain the product quality.
[0037] In step S I 13, when a signal from an engine ECU (not illustrated) is received through the vehicle LAN and the completion of the start of the engine 120 is detected, the first control is terminated in step S I 14.
<First Embodiment B>
[0038] In FIG. 2B, in step S I 12 of the first embodiment A, a second control described later is performed simultaneously with the first control. The following mainly describes difference from the first embodiment A.
[0039] When the start of the engine 120 is detected in step S 121 , the first control and the second control are performed in step S I 22. Here, the first control is the same as the control in the first embodiment A.
[0040] Similarly to the first control, the second control outputs a control signal to the amplifier 102 and controls the frequency characteristic of the voice signal of the sound source input from the main unit 101 using the equalizer.
[0041] Specifically, in the frequency bandwidth of the voice signal of the sound source, a range is divided into a second range adjacent to the above-described first range and a third range adjacent to the second range. In these three frequency bandwidths, a frequency bandwidth in the first range may be the lowest. The second range may be adjacent to the first range at the high frequency side. The third range may be adjacent to the second range at the high frequency side. For example, similarly to the first embodiment A, assuming that the first range is from 50 Hz to 100 Hz, the second range is assumed to be in a range from 100 Hz to 1000 Hz, and the third range is assumed to be in a range equal to or more than 1000 Hz. An output level of a frequency in the second range is changed by control so as to have the medium value between the output level of the frequency in the first range and the output level of the frequency in the third range.
[0042] With the first control and the second control, the voice signal with the changed frequency characteristic is output to the speaker 103 after the voice signal is amplified, and the output voice signal is played back by the speaker 103.
[0043] FIG. 5 is an exemplary output frequency characteristic on which the first control and the second control according to this embodiment are performed. As illustrated in FIG. 5, performing the second control in addition to the first control allows continuously changing the output level of in the range of 50 Hz to 100 Hz that corresponds to the first range and changing the output level in the range equal to or more than 100 Hz that corresponds to the second range and the third range.
[0044] This can improve the sound quality and more efficiently can maintain the product quality. The output level of around 100 Hz to 1000 Hz that corresponds to the second range is reduced. Accordingly, the current consumption amount is also reduced. This more efficiently can reduce the sound interruption or similar problem.
[0045] When the signal from the engine ECU is received through the vehicle LAN or similar network and the completion of the start of the engine 120 is detected in step S I 23, the first control and the second control are terminated in step S I 24.
<First Embodiment C>
[0046] In FIG. 2C, the first embodiment B additionally employs a step for determining whether to abort the first control and the second control. Here, the first control and the second control are the same as those in the first embodiments A and B. The following mainly describes difference from the first embodiment B.
[0047] When a start of the engine 120 is detected in step S I 3 1 , it is determined whether the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 at this time is equal to or less than a predetermined value in step S I 32. When this current consumption amount is equal to or less than the predetermined value, the executions of the first control and the second control are aborted and the first control and the second control are terminated in step S I 35.
[0048] When this current consumption amount exceeds the predetermined value, the process proceeds to step S I 33 and the first control and the second control are performed similarly to the case of the first embodiment B.
[0049] For example, it is possible to set the current consumption amount where the sound interruption or similar problem of the audio apparatus 100 would not potentially occur even when the voltage of the battery 1 10 is temporarily reduced at the time of the start of the engine 120, as the predetermined value.
[0050] Accordingly, in the case where the sound interruption or similar problem of the car audio apparatus 100 would not potentially occur even at the time of the start of the engine, it is not necessary to perform the first control and the second control. Accordingly, the sound quality is not changed. This more efficiently can maintain the product quality.
[0051] Steps S 134 and S 135 are similar to those in the first embodiment B.
[0052] Here, while FIG. 2C illustrates the first embodiment B with the addition of step S I 32, a step corresponding to step S I 32 may be added to the first embodiment A. [Second Embodiment]
[0053] Next, a second embodiment will be described.
[0054] A vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to the second embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment and is described by FIG. 1. Thus, the description will be omitted.
[0055] FIGs. 6A to 6C are flowcharts of controls according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations. The following mainly describes difference from the first embodiment.
<Second Embodiment A>
[0056] In FIG. 6A, an ON signal input from the accessory switch 155 through the vehicle LAN (not illustrated) is received in step S21 1 so as to detect an accessory state of the vehicle. Therefore, in step S212, the first control that is the same as that of the above-described first embodiment A is performed. Here, the accessory state indicates a state where the engine 120 is stopped and electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus 100 and similar member. The stop of the engine includes not only the case where the engine is stopped from a vehicle-running state, but also all the states where the engine does not operate, for example, before running.
[0057] Performing this first control allows reducing the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 even when the car audio apparatus 100 is used before the engine 120 is started. This allows more reliably reducing the sound interruption or similar problem in the case where the engine 120 is started afterward.
[0058] Similarly to the first embodiment A, the output levels of the frequency bandwidths other than the first range are not changed. Thus, the sound volume is not considerably reduced. The predetermined value of the first control can be set taking into consideration the current consumption amount to be reduced, the difficulty for the driver or similar person to notice the change in sound quality, and similar parameter. This can maintain the product quality.
[0059] Additionally, the current consumption amount is reduced when the car audio apparatus 100 is used in the accessory state. This can prevent the flat battery of the battery 1 10 or similar problem.
[0060] Steps S213 and S214 are similar to steps S I 13 and S I 14 in the first embodiment A.
<Second Embodiment B>
[0061] In FIG. 6B, the second control that is the same as that of the above-described first embodiment B is performed simultaneously with the first control in step S212 in the second embodiment A. Here, steps other than this step are similar to those in the second embodiment A. The first control is the same as that in the second embodiment A. The following mainly describes difference from the ' second embodiment A.
[0062] Similarly to the first embodiment B, . performing the second control in step S212 allows continuously changing the output level in the above-described first range, second range, and third range in the frequency bandwidth of the sound source. This can improve the sound quality and more efficiently can maintain the product quality. Subsequently, the output level in the second range is also reduced. This is also able to reduce the current consumption amount, thus more efficiently reducing the sound interruption or similar problem.
<Second Embodiment C>
[0063] FIG. 6C illustrates the second embodiment B with the addition of a step for determining whether to abort the first control and the second control. Here, steps other than this step are similar to those in the second embodiment B. The first control and the second control are the same as those in the second embodiments A and B. The following mainly describes difference from the second embodiment B.
[0064] When the accessory state of the vehicle is detected in step S231 , it is determined whether the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 100 is equal to or less than the predetermined value in step S232.
[0065] In the case where this current consumption amount is equal to or less than the predetermined value, the executions of the above-described first control and second control are aborted. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S233 and it is determined whether the completion of the start of the engine is detected. In the case where the completion of the start of the engine is not detected, the process returns to step S232 and the determination in step S232 is performed again. As long as this current consumption amount is equal to or less than the predetermined value and the start of the engine is not completed, the determinations in step S232 and step S233 are repeated. In the case where the completion of the start of the engine is detected in step S233, the process proceeds to step S236 and the first control and the second control are terminated.
[0066] In the case where this current consumption amount exceeds the predetermined value, the process proceeds to step S234 and performs the above-described first control and second control. Subsequently, when the completion of the start of the engine is detected in step S235, the first control and the second control are terminated in step S236.
[0067] For example, similarly to the first embodiment C, it is possible to set the current consumption amount where the sound interruption or similar problem of the audio apparatus 100 would not potentially occur even when the voltage of the battery 1 10 is temporarily reduced at the time of the start of the engine 120, as the above-described predetermined value.
[0068] Accordingly, even when the engine is started, in the case where the sound interruption or similar problem of the car audio apparatus 100 would not potentially occur, the first control and the second control are aborted. This does not change the sound quality and more efficiently can maintain the product quality. When the above-described current consumption amount changes to a level at which the sound interruption occurs at the time of engine start during the period after the accessory state before the engine start is completed, the first control and the second control can be performed. This can reduce the sound interruption or similar problem at the time of engine start.
[0069] Here, while FIG. 6C illustrates the second embodiment B with the addition of steps S232 and S233, steps corresponding to steps S232 and S233 may be added to the second embodiment A.
[Third Embodiment]
[0070] Next, a third embodiment will be described.
[0071] FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an idling-stop vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to this embodiment. Here, the idling-stop vehicle is a vehicle in which an idling-stop system is mounted. The idling-stop system has a function that automatically stops the engine when a predetermined engine-stop condition for stopping the engine is satisfied in the case where, for example, the vehicle is stopped due to waiting for a traffic light and similar reason. Additionally, the idling-stop system has a function that activates the starter and automatically restarts the engine when a predetermined engine-restart condition for restarting the engine is satisfied after the engine is stopped.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 7, a car audio apparatus 200 includes a main unit 201 , an amplifier 202, a speaker 203, and similar member in a configuration similar to that of the car audio apparatus 100 according to the first and second embodiments.
[0073] Generally, the idling-stop vehicle includes elements of a battery 210, an engine 220, a starter 230, a back-up boost converter (BBC) 240, an idling-stop ECU 250, and similar member. The following describes the idling-stop ECU 250 that is a part different from the vehicle according to the first and second embodiments.
[0074] The idling-stop ECU 250 receives a vehicle state signal indicative of a vehicle speed, a brake pedal depression amount, a battery charged percentage of the battery 210, or similar state through the vehicle LAN (not illustrated) or similar network. Based on these, a control for idling stop or restart of the idling stop is performed. As described above, the engine is stopped when the predetermined engine-stop condition for stopping the engine 220 is satisfied. After the engine is stopped, when the predetermined engine-restart condition for restarting the engine 220 is satisfied, the starter 230 is activated and the engine 220 is started.
[0075] The idling-stop ECU 250 outputs a signal for transmitting information that the idling is stopped in the vehicle or a signal for transmitting information that the idling is restarted at the time of idling stop or at the time of the restart of the idling stop, to the main unit 201 .
[0076] Next, a control step performed by the main unit 201 will be described by referring to FIGs. 8A to 8C.
[0077] FIGs. 8A to 8C are flowcharts of controls according to this embodiment, and illustrate three control configurations.
<Third Embodiment A> [0078] In FIG. 8 A, the step (step S 1 1 1 ) for detecting the start of the engine in the first embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S3 1 1 ) for detecting the restart of the idling stop. Additionally, the step (step S I 1 3) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S313) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the first embodiment A. Here, the first control perfonned in step S3 12 is the same as that in the first embodiment A.
[0079] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the first embodiment A can be obtained.
[0080] Furthermore, unlike the ordinary vehicle, the idling-stop vehicle in which the stop and the restart of the engine are repeatedly performed has a considerable influence on the product quality due to the change in sound quality. Accordingly, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment reduces troubles such as sound interruption while providing a difficulty for the driver to notice the change in sound quality. Thus, the car audio apparatus 200 is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality.
<Third Embodiment B>
[0081] In FIG. 8B, the step (step S 121 ) for detecting the start of the engine in the first embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S321 ) for detecting the restart of the idling stop. Additionally, the step (step S I 23) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S323) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the first embodiment B. Here, the first control performed in step S322 is the same as that in the third embodiment A. The second control is the same as that in the first embodiment B.
[0082] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the first embodiment B can be obtained.
[0083] Furthermore, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the third embodiment A. <Third Embodiment C>
[0084] In FIG. 8C, the step (step S I 31 ) for detecting the start of the engine of the first embodiment C is replaced by a step (step S331 ) for detecting the restart of the idling stop. Additionally, the step (step S I 34) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S334) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the first embodiment C. Here, the first control and the second control that are performed in step S333 are the same as those in the third embodiments A and B.
[0085] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the first embodiment C can be obtained.
[0086] Furthermore, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the third embodiments A and B.
[0087] Here, while FIG. 8C illustrates the third embodiment B with the addition of step S332, a step corresponding to step S332 may be added to the third embodiment A. [Fourth Embodiment]
[0088] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described.
[0089] An idling-stop vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to the fourth embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the third embodiment and is described by FIG. 7. Thus, the description will be omitted.
[0090] FIGs. 9A to 9C are flowcharts of controls performed by the main unit 201 according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations.
<Fourth Embodiment A>
[0091] In FIG. 9A, the step (step S21 1 ) for detecting the accessory state in the second embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S41 1 ) for detecting the idling stop. Additionally, the step (step S213) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S413) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those of the second embodiment A. Here, the first control performed in step S412 is the same as that in the second embodiment A. [0092] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the second embodiment A can be obtained.
[0093] Additionally, performing the above-described first control in step S412 allows reducing the cun-ent consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 200 when the vehicle is in the idling-stop state. This can ensure the improved fuel efficiency and similar effect.
[0094] Furthermore, unlike the ordinary vehicle, the idling-stop vehicle in which the stop and the restart of the engine are repeatedly performed has a considerable influence on the product quality due to deterioration in sound quality. Accordingly, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment reduces troubles such as sound interruption while providing a difficulty for the driver to notice the change in sound quality. Thus, similarly to the third embodiment, the car audio apparatus 200 is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality.
<Fourth Embodiment B>
[0095] In FIG. 9B, the step (step S221 ) for detecting the accessory state in the second embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S421 ) for detecting the idling stop. Additionally, the step (step S223) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S423) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the second embodiment B. Here, the first control performed in step S422 is the same as that in the fourth embodiment A. The second control is the same as that in the second embodiment B.
[0096] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the second embodiment B can be obtained.
[0097] Additionally, performing the above-described second control in the step S422 reduces the output level in the above-described second range, thus reducing the current consumption amount. This more efficiently can ensure the improved fuel efficiency and similar effect when the vehicle is in the idling-stop state.
[0098] Furthermore, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fourth embodiment A.
<Fourth Embodiment C>
[0099] In FIG. 9C, the step (step S23 1 ) for detecting the accessory state in the second embodiment C is replaced by a step (step S431 ) for detecting the idling stop. Additionally, the step (step S235) for detecting the completion of the start of the engine is replaced by a step (step S435) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop. Steps other than these steps are similar to those of the second embodiment C. The first control and the second control that are performed in step S434 are the same as those in the fourth embodiments A and B.
[0100] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the second embodiment C can be obtained.
[0101] Furthermore, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fourth embodiments A and B.
[0102] While FIG. 9C illustrates the fourth embodiment B with the addition of steps S432 and S433, steps corresponding to steps S432 and S433 may be added to the fourth embodiment A.
[Fifth Embodiment]
[0103] Next, a fifth embodiment will be described.
[0104] An idling-stop vehicle with a car audio apparatus according to the fifth embodiment has a configuration similar to those of the third and fourth embodiments and is described by FIG. 7. Thus, the description will be omitted.
[0105] FIGs. 10A to I OC are flowcharts of controls performed by the main unit 201 according to this embodiment and illustrate three control configurations of FIGs. 10A to I OC.
<Fifth Embodiment A>
[0106] In FIG. 10A, the step (step S41 1 ) for detecting the idling stop in the fourth embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S51 1 ) for detecting an idling-stop mode. Additionally, the step (step S413) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop in the fourth embodiment A is replaced by a step (step S513) for detecting the termination of the idling-stop mode. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the fourth embodiment A. Here, the first control performed in step S512 is the same as that in the fourth embodiment A. The idling-stop mode indicates a state where idling can be stopped if the vehicle is stopped at a traffic light, by satisfying a predetermined condition during running of the vehicle. The idling-stop mode includes the case where the mode is selectable by the driver, the case where the mode is selectable by the controller or similar member provided with the vehicle that automatically determines based on the predetermined condition, and similar case. Additionally, in the specification where the controller or similar member automatically determines based on the predetermined condition for mode selection, the idling-stop mode may be terminated once at the time of the restart of the idling stop. In this case, the restart of the idling stop may be detected in step S513.
[0107] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the fourth embodiment A can be obtained.
[0108] Performing the above-described first control in step S512 allows reducing the current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus 200 in a state where the vehicle is running in the idling-stop mode. This is more efficiently able to ensure the improved fuel efficiency and similar effect.
[0109] Furthermore, unlike the ordinary vehicle, the idling-stop vehicle in which the stop and the restart of the engine are repeatedly performed has a considerable influence on the product quality due to the deterioration in sound quality. Accordingly, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment can reduce troubles such as sound interruption while providing a difficulty for the driver to notice the change in sound quality. Thus, the car audio apparatus 200 is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the third and fourth embodiments.
<Fifth embodiment B>
[0110] In FIG. 10B, the step (step S421 ) for detecting the idling stop in the fourth embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S521 ) for detecting the idling-stop mode. Additionally, the step (step S423) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop in the fourth embodiment B is replaced by a step (step S523) for detecting the termination of the idling-stop mode. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the fourth embodiment B. Here, the first control performed in step S522 is the same as that in the fifth embodiment A. The second control is the same as that in the fourth embodiment B. Additionally, in the specification where the controller or similar member automatically determines based on the predetermined condition for mode selection, the idling-stop mode may be terminated once at the time of the restart of the idling stop. In this case, the restart of the idling stop may be detected in step S523.
[0111] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the fourth embodiment B can be obtained.
[0112] Additionally, performing the above-described second control in step S522 reduces the output level in the above-described second range, thus reducing the current consumption amount. This is more efficiently being able to ensure the improved efficiency and similar effect when the vehicle is in the idling-stop mode.
[0113] Furthermore, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fifth embodiment A.
<Fifth Embodiment C>
[0114] In FIG. I OC, the step (step S43 1 ) for detecting the idling stop of the fourth embodiment C is replaced by a step (step S531 ) for detecting the idling-stop mode. Additionally, the step (steps S433 and S435) for detecting the completion of the restart of the idling stop in the fourth embodiment B is replaced by a step (steps S533 and S535) for detecting the termination of the idling-stop mode. Steps other than these steps are similar to those in the fourth embodiment C. Here, the first control and the second control that are performed in step S534 are the same as those in the fifth embodiments A and B. Additionally, in the specification where the controller or similar member automatically determines based on the predetermined condition for mode selection, the idling-stop mode may be terminated once at the time of the restart of the idling stop. In this case, the restart of the idling stop may be detected in steps S533 and S535.
[0115] Accordingly, the effects similar to those in the fourth embodiment C can be obtained.
[0116] Furthermore, the car audio apparatus 200 according to this embodiment is preferred to be applied to the idling-stop vehicle to maintain the product quality, similarly to the case of the fifth embodiments A and B.
[0117] Here, while FIG. I OC illustrates the fifth embodiment B with the addition of steps S532 and S533 , steps corresponding to steps S532 and S533 may be added to the fifth embodiment A.
[0118] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments. Various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, when the first control or the second control is terminated, the frequency characteristic may be set to the state before the first control is performed.

Claims

1. A car audio apparatus that receives electric power supply from a batter that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine is started, the car audio apparatus comprising
a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is started.
2. A car audio apparatus that receives electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine is started, the car audio apparatus comprising
a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the engine is stopped and electric power is supplied to the car audio apparatus from the battery.
3. The car audio apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
the first control unit is mounted on an idling-stop vehicle.
4. A car audio apparatus mounted on an idling-stop vehicle, the car audio apparatus receiving electric power supply from a battery that supplies electric power to a starter of an engine when the engine in stop is restarted, the car audio apparatus comprising
a first control unit configured to control an output of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output when the idling-stop vehicle is in an idling-stop mode.
5. The car audio apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a second control unit configured to divide a range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound to be output into a second range adjacent to the first range and a third range adjacent to the second range, the second control unit being configured to control an output of a frequency in the second range to have a medium value between an output in the first range and an output in the third range, wherein
a control of the second control unit is performed when a control of the first control unit is performed.
6. The car audio apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a control aborting unit configured to abort execution of a control of the first control unit in a case where a current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus is equal to or less than a predetermined value.
7. The car audio apparatus according to claim 5, wherein
the control aborting unit is configured to abort execution of a control by the second control unit in a case where a current consumption amount of the car audio apparatus is equal to or less than a predetermined value.
8. A control method for a car audio apparatus that receives power supply from a battery that supplies power to a starter to start a vehicle engine, the method comprising: detecting a start of a start control for the engine; and
performing a first control to reduce and output a sound of a frequency in a first range in a frequency bandwidth of a sound output from a sound source in a case where the start of the start control of the engine is detected.
9. The control method for the car audio apparatus that receives power supply from the battery that supplies power to the starter to start the vehicle engine according to claim 8, further comprising
performing a second control to reduce and output a sound of a frequency adjacent to a frequency band in the first range in the frequency bandwidth of the sound output from the sound source in the case where the start of the start control of the engine is detected.
PCT/IB2014/000424 2013-04-02 2014-03-27 Car audio apparatus and control method for the same WO2014162184A1 (en)

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JP2022037727A (en) * 2020-08-25 2022-03-09 株式会社東海理化電機製作所 Sound adjustment device, sound processing method, and program

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