Automotive storage and playback device and method for using the same
28 claims: 3 independent, 25 dependent
- 1無線ローカルエリアネットワークと通信可能に接続されたコンピュータシステムを含み、 前記コンピュータシステムは、デジタルコンテント を自 動的に取得し、記憶し、自動車用記憶及び再生装置が前記無線ローカルエリアネットワークの範囲内にある無線送受信機を含む時は、 前記 デジタルコンテントを 前記無線ローカルエリアネットワークを通じて 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置に送信し、 前記コンピュータシステムが、前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置と接続した自動車から離れて位置している場合は、 前記コンピュータシステムに ユーザによって直接 入力されたユーザ 選択 に基づいて、 前記コンピュータシステムは、 ワイドエリアネットワーク を通じて一つ以上のデジタルコンテントサーバから 前記デジタルコンテント の少なくとも一部 を スケジューリングされた時刻に自動的に 取得する、 ことを特徴とする装置。
- 2前記コンピュータシステムは、前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置上の制御ファームウェア によって発見メッセージが放送されていることに 応答して自動的に前記デジタルコンテントを 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置に 送るためのシステム制御アプリケーションを含み、 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置が、 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置に接続した自動車が エンジン を切った時 のみ に、 前記 発見メッセージ を放 送する ことを特徴とする請求項1に記載の装置。
- 3前記コンピュータシステムは、そのコンピュータシステムに入力された前記ユーザ 選択 よって指定された時刻に定期的に前記デジタルコンテントを 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置に 送信することを 試みることを 特徴とする請求項1に記載のシステム。
- 4前記コンピュータシステムは、該コンピュータシステムにおけるユーザのアクションに応答して前記デジタルコンテントを 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置に 送信するように作動可能であることを特徴とする請求項1に記載のシステム。
- 5前記コンピュータシステムは、 前記デジタルコンテントの 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置への 転送を管理して制御するためのシステム制御アプリケーションと、 ユーザがユーザ選択を直接前記コンピュータシステムに入力するための ユーザインタフェースと、 を含むことを特徴とする請求項1に記載のシステム。
- 6デジタルコンテントを無線ローカルエリアネットワークを通じて自動的に受信するための第1の無線送受信機を含み、前記デジタルコンテントを再生することができる自動車の出力装置に接続された、自動車に接続するための自動車用記憶及び再生装置と、 前記無線ローカルエリアネットワークと接続され、前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置 が接続した自動車 に対して遠隔的に位置するコンピュータシステムと、 を含み、 前記コンピュータシステムは、 前記デジタルコンテント を自 動的に取得し、記憶し、前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置が該無線ローカルエリアネットワークの範囲内にある無線送受信機を含む時は、該デジタルコンテントを 前記無線ローカルエリアネットワークを通じて 該自動車用記憶及び再生装置に送信し、 前記 コンピュータシステムに ユーザによって直接 入力されたユーザ 選択 に基づいて、 前記コンピュータシステムは、 ワイドエリアネットワーク を通じて一つ以上のデジタルコンピュータサーバから、スケジューリングされた時刻に 前記デジタルコンテント の少なくとも一部 を取得する、 ことを特徴とする、デジタルコンテントを自動車に転送するためのシステム。
- 7前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置上の制御ファームウェアは、自動車が エンジン を切った時に、前記コンピュータシステム上のシステム制御アプリケーションからの デジタル コンテント と 同期する目的で発見メッセージを定期的かつ自動的に放送することを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 8前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置は、前記コンピュータシステムに入力されたユーザ 選択 によって指定された時刻に定期的に前記デジタルコンテントを受信することを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 9前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置は、前記コンピュータシステムにおけるユーザのアクションに応答して前記デジタルコンテントを受信す るこ とを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 10前記コンピュータシステムは、 前記デジタルコンテントの 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置への 転送を管理して制御するためのシステム制御アプリケーションと、 ユーザがユーザ選択を直接前記コンピュータシステムに入力するための ユーザインタフェースと、を含むことを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 11前記第1の無線送受信機に接続され、該第1の無線送受信機から前記デジタルコンテントを受信してそのデジタルコンテント を少 なくともに バイナリデータに 変換する記憶及びデータリンクユニットを更に含むことを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 12少なくとも1つのケーブルを通じて前記記憶及びデータリンクユニットに接続されたヘッドユニットを更に含むことを特徴とする請求項11に記載のシステム。
- 13前記ヘッドユニットは、 ステレオサウンドプロセッサと、 前記ステレオサウンドプロセッサに合結されたオーディオミキサーと、 前記オーディオミキサーに接続されたプリアンプと、 前記プリアンプに接続されたアンプと、 自動車に取り付けられたアンテナに接続されたチューナと、 ユーザインタフェースと、 を含むことを特徴とする請求項12に記載のシステム。
- 14前記ヘッドユニットは、 前記ステレオサウンドプロセッサに接続されたコンパクトディスクドライブと、 前記ステレオサウンドプロセッサに接続されたオーディオカセットドライブと、 を更に含むことを特徴とする請求項13に記載のシステム。
- 15前記デジタルコンテントは、音楽ファイル、テキストファイル、画像ファイル、ビデオファイル、及び、対話型マルチメディアファイルのうちの少なくとも1つを含むことを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 16前記ワイドエリアネットワークは、「インターネット」であることを特徴とする請求項6に記載のシステム。
- 17前記記憶及びデータリンクユニットは、バッテリを含むことを特徴とする請求項11に記載のシステム。
- 18前記記憶及びデータリンクユニットは、温度に基づく制御システムを含むことを特徴とする請求項11に記載のシステム。
- 19前記記憶及びデータリンクユニットは、振動減衰システムを含むことを特徴とする請求項11に記載のシステム。
- 20前記振動減衰システムは、2つのエラストマー性緩衝キャップを含むことを特徴とする請求項19に記載のシステム。
- 21自動車に接続した自動車用記憶及び再生装置にデジタルコンテントを転送する方法であって、 自動車用記憶及び再生装置が無線ローカルエリアネットワークの範囲内にある時に、該自動車用記憶及び再生装置をローカルエリアネットワークと通信可能に接続する段階と、 前記無線ローカルエリアネットワークを通じて、 前記自動車用記憶及び再生装置に接続した自動車から離れて位置する コンピュータシステムから自動的にデジタルコンテント の少なくとも一部 を受信する段階と、 を含み、 前 記デジタルコンテントは、 ユーザによってコンピュータシステムに直接入力されたユーザ選択に基づいて、 ワイドエリアネットワーク を通じて一つ以上のデジタルコンテントサーバから、スケジューリングされた時刻に前記コンピュータシステムによって 取得される、 ことを特徴とする方法。
- 22デジタルコンテント の少なくとも一部 を受信する 前記 段階は、コンテントをコンピュータシステム上のシステム制御アプリケーションと同期させる目的で、自動車が エンジン を切った時に制御ファームウェアが定期的かつ自動的に発見メッセージを放送する段階を含むことを特徴とする請求項21に記載の方法。
- 23デジタルコンテント の少なくとも一部 を受信する 前記 段階は、前記コンピュータシステムに入力された前記ユーザ 選択 によって指定された時刻に定期的に該デジタルコンテントを受信する段階を含むことを特徴とする請求項21に記載の方法。
- 24デジタルコンテントの少なくとも一部を受信する前記段階は、 ユーザのアクションに応答してデジタルコンテント の少なくとも一部 を受信する段階を更に含むことを特徴とする請求項21に記載の方法。
- 25前記デジタルコンテントを解凍して、 少なくとも バイナリデー タに 変換する段階を更に含むことを特徴とする請求項21に記載の方法。
- 26前記変換されたコンテントを自動車の出力装置に転送する段階を更に含むことを特徴とする請求項25に記載の方法。
- 27前記変換されたコンテントを前記出力装置上で再生する段階を更に含むことを特徴とする請求項26に記載の方法。
- 28前記デジタルコンテントは、音楽ファイル、テキストファイル、画像ファイル、ビデオファイル、及び、対話型マルチメディアファイルのうちの少なくとも1つを含むことを特徴とする請求項21に記載の方法。
Independent claims28
92 paragraphs, as filed
(Technical Field) This application is filed on October 20, 2000, with the filing date of US Patent Provisional Application No. 60 / 242,049 entitled "Content Acquisition and Player System from Home PC to" LAN "Car". Claim the benefits of. The present invention relates generally to ubiquitous computer devices, more specifically to ubiquitous computer devices for supplying automobiles with digital content from the "Internet".
(Background Technology) The rapid construction of telecommunications infrastructure, which has led to significant investments in "Internet" based businesses and technologies, has brought "Internet" connectivity to a large part of the population. Recent market statistics show that most homes in the United States own at least one personal computer (PC), and a significant number of these PCs are connected to the "Internet." Although most home PCs are connected to the "Internet" by dial-up modem connections, broadband connections are rapidly adapting and falling in price as various technologies are introduced to the market and compete. The majority of homes in the United States and Europe can make at least one or more types of broadband connections, such as cables, "DSL", optical networks, fixed radios, or bidirectional satellite transmissions.
[0003] The market for home networking technology emerges with the need to share an "Internet" connection between two or more personal computers and connect all personal computers to productive peripherals. I've been doing it. Innovations are being made in local area network (LAN) technology based on end-user demands for simplicity and ease of installation. Since the installation of "Ethernet" cables is not practical for the majority of end users, some new wire-free technologies have been introduced.
[0004] Wireless radio frequency (RF) "LAN" technology has also been introduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless technology is most convenient for the end user as it is virtually non-installed. Currently, there are two popular standards for wireless networking, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b and "HomeRF". Both of these systems utilize the unlicensed 2.4 GHz ISM band as the carrier frequency for data transmission. Both of these techniques have an effective range of about 150 feet in a typical home setting. In order to communicate on the network, an RF transmitter / receiver is required for each device. In addition to using the "Transmission Control Protocol" / "Internet Protocol" (TCP / IP) protocols, IEEE 802.11b and "Home RF" limit the data sent by the user's device through the "LAN". Includes additional encryption and security protocol layers to have access.
[0005] Due to market competition and the effects of "Moore's Law", home networking technology has greatly improved its performance and availability while its price has decreased. For example, the IEEE 802.11 technology roadmap shows the introduction of 802.11a at 54 megabits / second and the use of the 5 GHz band. It is important to note that the increase in "LAN" data speeds is much greater than wideband data speeds, such as the data speeds provided by "last mile" technologies, including "DSL" and "DOCSIS". Is.
[0006] The availability of home networking technologies and the widespread use of broadband, along with the introduction of home gateways, devices that exist to connect local area networks or home networks to the "Internet". There are a wide variety of gateways, including "DSL" modems and cable modems. Digital cable set-top boxes are currently being deployed with integrated "DOCSIS" cable modems and hard disk drives. Cables and "DSL" modems, as well as "LAN" transmitters and receivers, as well as other home gateways have been introduced that include processing power and hard disk drives comparable to personal computers.
[0007] While networked personal computers with the "Internet" provide great convenience for productive applications, there are other tendencies that affect the habit of experiencing end-user content. Most notably, the digitization of almost all types of media has created portability and reusability of content that offers new usage and content presentation scenarios. For example, "personal video recorders" (hereafter referred to as PVRs) are becoming more popular. These devices are improvements to the "time-shift" feature of videocassette recorders that allow users to record, pause, and start live media in near real time. These devices digitize terrestrial television broadcast content and store the file on a hard disk drive, providing faster random access, faster fast forward, and rewind. It also provides a graphical user interface that allows the user to select their preferred content.
The "MP3" digital audio format is an audio coding technology that allows consumers to further compress digital audio files, such as those found on "compact discs," to smaller sizes with little loss of sound quality. is there. For example, the "MP3" format can compress audio content to about 1 million bytes / minute of audio, which approaches the quality of "compact discs." The smaller size of "MP3" encoded audio files allows users to share these files on the "Internet" as the digital transfer of these files can be completed in a reasonable amount of time using a broadband connection. Made it possible. Various "Internet" -based digital music access and distribution services have emerged that provide a means for users to gain access to digital audio files. In addition to music, many other types of audio content, such as spoken content, news, commentary, and educational content, are now available in digital format. Digital files, including audio recordings of books that are read aloud, are available for download via the "Internet."
PC-based digital audio software players have been created that provide convenient graphical user interfaces and software for decrypting "MP3" files, such as "WinAmp" provided by "AOL / Time Warner". It was. PC software digital audio players allow users to play "MP3" files on their PCs by using existing audio cards with external speakers. Software digital audio player, generally Playlist includes a list editor, this is an application that allows a user to organize their own "MP3" or other digital music files. A playlist is a file that contains a name and a file system routing to a file-based digital audio file.
[0010] Users who accumulate a large amount of digital audio files often have a desire to listen to their audio files at a location other than the PC. Portable "MP3" playback devices have been developed for this purpose. Portable "MP3" playback devices are much more than portable CD players because they do not contain moving parts and only include semiconductor flash memory, a microprocessor for decoding audio content in "MP3" format, and a battery. It is small.
[0011] One limitation of portable "MP3" playback devices is that the cost per bit of audio content stored is still very high due to the high cost of flash memory. A typical portable digital audio player includes enough flash memory to store as much as a single CD of digital music. "MP3" fans may own hundreds or thousands of "MP3" files. As a result, the user is continuously informed by connecting the device inside the PC and manipulating the user interface to erase or add new music when the user wants to listen to a wide range of genres of music. The burden is imposed on having to manually replace the music files with the device.
[0012] Digital audio fans, like ordinary music fans, have a desire to listen to their audio collection in their own car. The proof is the success in the car-based CD changer market. Users generally do not buy multiple copies of a CD, so if a user wants to listen to audio content in both the car and home stereo systems, hand the CD between the car and home stereo systems. I have to carry it.
Telematics is a technical field that includes mobile, automotive-based telecommunications. Automotives are increasingly including various telematics devices and functions such as on-board cellular communication systems and navigation systems. However, due to the high cost per bit of transmitted data, even 2.5G and 3G systems are exorbitant for transferring large amounts of file-based content such as audio or graphics files to automobiles through cellular systems. It costs a lot.
[0014] What is needed is a system for automatically and conveniently transferring digital content to an automobile that can store and reproduce the digital content according to the user's choice. In addition, the system should include a system for selecting content that is automatically delivered or regularly updated by vehicle. The system should also allow users to access their music by using the same playlist structure at home and in the car.
(Disclosure of the Invention) An automobile storage and reproduction device and a method of using the device will be described. The automotive storage and playback device can be detachably coupled to the automotive. The apparatus includes a wireless transmitter / receiver for automatically receiving compressed digital content from the computer system through the wireless local area network based on the user selection entered into the computer system. The wireless transmitter / receiver is communicably connected to the wireless local area network when it is at a predetermined distance from the access point of the wireless local area network. The device also includes a decoder and converter for decompressing and converting digital content. The decompressed and converted digital content is transmitted for reproduction on the output device of the vehicle. The present invention will be better understood from the detailed description given below and the accompanying drawings of various embodiments of the present invention, which are used to limit the present invention to specific embodiments. It is not prepared for explanation and understanding.
(Best mode for carrying out the invention) An automobile storage and reproduction device and a method of using the device will be described. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, a number of specific details will be provided to provide a good understanding of the present invention. However, it is clear to the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, known structures and devices are shown in the form of block diagrams to avoid obscuring the present invention. A set of definitions is given below to clarify the invention.
【0017】<u style="single">Definition</u>The term "content" is used to mean digital audio, video, images, or interactive multimedia. A network is defined as a personal computer (PC), a network device, or any kind of two or more computer devices such as a "PDA" that are connected to each other by a digital communication link. A device that has a communication link to a network is often referred to as a node. A local area network (LAN) is defined as multiple physically adjacent nodes connected by a network.
[0018] The term gateway, which is used indistinguishably from a broadband gateway, is defined as an integrated modem and router and may include hub functionality. The modem (modulator / demodulator) function is used to convert voltage fluctuations on the input carrier line (DSL line input or cable TV input) to digital data. A router is a device that connects one separate network to another by sending only a specific IP address for a specific network. A hub allows one network signal input to be split and sent to many devices.
The storage gateway or storage gateway system combines a large storage capacity with the gateway. For example, a personal computer (PC) connected to a broadband cable modem gateway is considered a storage gateway system. Digital cable set-top boxes with "DOCSIS" cable modems and hard disk drives are also considered storage gateway systems.
[0020] The acronym "CODEC" for "compression / decompression" is software for compressing and decompressing audio, graphic, or video data, or a software algorithm function implemented in software and hardware. Is. For example, "MP3" is a known "CODEC" format and is a nomenclature for "MPEG" layer 3, which is the digital audio layer of "MPEG" encoded video data files.
[0021] A term contract is defined to mean a content service in which new content is provided on a regular basis based on content selection parameters such as a particular artist, editorial writer, or genre. The subscription service can be paid by the user or supported by advertising (free for the user). An example of a subscription service is audio sports news that is downloaded daily to the user's PC.
【0022】<u style="single">Overview</u>A basic function of the present invention is to provide a system for delivering file-based digital content to a vehicle for user playback, including the "Internet" and a home PC18 and a local area. It involves wireless communication and information (content) transfer to and from a network (LAN) -based automotive storage and playback system 10. Content can be transferred automatically and periodically and / or under the direct control of the user.
[0023] The system includes a broadband connection connected to a residence or a PC 18 located at a specific fixed site having a wireless "LAN" access point 30. There is a "LAN" based automotive storage and playback system 10 installed in an automobile, including a computer system with a hard disk drive and a wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver. Whenever the car is within range of the wireless "LAN" access point 30, the car's computer system becomes a node in the wireless "LAN" and content can be transferred from the "Internet" and the home PC 18. The content can be stored in the hard disk drive of the car. In terms of placement in the vehicle, in one embodiment, the vehicle storage and playback system 10 is similar to a system that incorporates a multi-CD changer that is commonly installed in the trunk. An embodiment of the present invention will be described first in terms of the hardware components of the system and then in terms of the software components. Finally, the operation of the system will be described. Also, alternative embodiments will be described.
【0024】<u style="single">Hardware description</u>Here, with reference to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of a "LAN" based automotive content distribution system is shown. In one embodiment, a home-installed PC 18 is connected to the "Internet" through a broadband connection 38 using a "DOCSIS" cable modem 22 and includes a storage gateway system. The PC 18 includes a hard disk drive 26 and a wireless "LAN" access point 30 connected to the PC 18 through a "USB" connection. In one embodiment, wireless "LAN" technology based on the IEEE 802.11b specification is used. The wireless "LAN" 30 system described uses a socket-based communication protocol, specifically the "TCP / IP" standard.
[0025] Here, referring to FIG. 2, a schematic diagram of the automobile storage and reproduction system 10 is shown superimposed on the automobile 42. In FIG. 2, the dashed line shows the electrical line connected by the dock 126. In one embodiment, the automotive storage and playback system 10 is incorporated into an automobile 42 having an existing conventional car stereo 46. The automotive storage and playback system 10 includes a storage and data link unit 14, and a user interface control module 50. FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of the components of the automotive storage and reproduction system 10. The storage and data link unit 14 includes a microprocessor 82, flash memory 86, dynamic random access memory (DRAM) 90, power conversion and battery charging subsystem 94, digital / analog converter (DAC) 98, PC card host controller 102, Includes PC Card Connector 110, USB Host Controller 106, 10 Gigabyte Hard Disk Drive 112, and Rechargeable Built-in Battery 122. Includes wireless "LAN" PC Card 114 and is installed in the slot of PC Card Connector 110. The electronic components and subsystems of the storage and data link unit 14 are functionally connected through the printed circuit board 118.
The storage and data link unit 14 shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 can be detachably coupled to the vehicle 42 by arranging it in a dock 126 permanently installed in the vehicle 42. The dock 126 has a cavity for receiving the storage and data link unit 14. Note that in Figure 5, the built-in battery 122 has been removed so as not to obscure the other components. In one embodiment, the storage and data link unit 14 is mounted in the trunk. In other embodiments, the storage and data link unit 14 is mounted under a seat or in a glove box.
[0027] In one embodiment, the storage and data link unit 14 can be secured onto the dock 126 using two mounting latches 130 and 134 that are rotatably mounted on either side of the dock 126. 6 and 7 show in detail how the latches 130 and 134 work. Latches 130 and 134 include latch cams 138, which are cam protrusions arranged to contact and tighten the dock 126 as the latch 130 rotates toward the storage and data link unit 14. The latch 130 loosens slightly when it moves overcenter and the latch catch 140 is placed in the latch slot 152 on the container 150. This overcentering action ensures that the latches 130 and 134 remain in place. To remove the storage and data link unit 14 from the dock 126, the user turns the latches 130 and 134 away from the storage and data link unit 14 and lifts the storage and data link unit 14 from the dock 126.
[0028] The lower cap 146 of the storage and data link unit 14 includes a data connector and a power connector that connect to the correspondingly positioned connectors on the dock 126. The dock 126 connector functionally connects the storage and data link unit 14 to the unswitched and on automotive battery outputs 278 and 282, and connects the analog audio signal 286 output to the car stereo 46 head unit. Then, the storage and data link unit 14 is connected to the user interface control module 50 in the passenger compartment through the serial connection 290. Coaxial connector A190 and connector B194 are also included to connect the wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 to the antenna extension subsystem 178, which is also installed in the vehicle 42. The container 150, the upper cap 142, and the lower cap 146 of the storage and data link unit 14 are made of injection molded plastic.
FIG. 8 shows a microprocessor, a built-in backlit LCD 52, and buttons (power ON / OFF 74, play / pause 54, stop 58, fast forward track 62, and) to allow the user to control the system. , Including rewind track 66). The 4-way navigation toggle 70 is also provided as well as the tag button 78. The electronic components of the user interface control module 50 are functionally connected through a printed circuit board. The user interface control module 50 is housed in an injection molded plastic container. FIG. 4 shows that the storage and data link unit 14 includes a handle 154 integrated into an upper cap 142 for use in carrying it.
FIG. 5 shows a storage and data link unit 14 in which the hard disk drive 112 has a vibration damping subsystem so that vibration and shock loads are not transmitted from the motion of the vehicle 42 to the platters and heads in the hard disk drive 112. Indicates that it can be attached to container 150. The vibration damping subsystem includes two elastomeric buffer caps 158, each mounted on the top and bottom of the hard disk drive 112. The elastomeric buffer cap 158 has a linear recess that fits over the end of the hard disk drive 112. Further, in order to further fix the elastomeric buffer cap 158 to the hard disk drive 112, four screws are arranged through the holes of the elastomeric buffer cap 158 corresponding to the mounting screw holes of the hard disk drive 112. Each elastomeric buffer cap 158 includes two cushioning bends 162 that are narrow portions of the elastomeric material that extend laterally away from the hard disk drive 112. These buffer curved portions 162 are elastically deformed while an impact load is applied.
FIG. 5 also shows that the buffer bend 162 has an integrated buffer mount 166 attached to a buffer pin 170 integrated with the container 150. The elastomeric buffer cap 158 and the bend 162 allow the container 150 of the storage and data link unit 14 to move with respect to the hard disk drive 112 while the shock and vibration loads act to absorb the shock of the motion of the vehicle 42. It is shaped so that it can move along multiple axes. However, the hard disk drive 112 cannot come into contact with any surface or other component of the container 150 other than the elastomeric buffer cap 158. A flexible ribbon cable (not shown) electrically connects the hard disk drive 112 to the computer subsystem. Elastomeric Buffer Cap 158 is a homogeneous component molded from "Dynaflex" thermoplastic elastomers provided by GLS Corporation, located in Illinois, USA.
[0032] In one embodiment, the temperature resistant device (RTD) temperature sensor 174 shown in FIG. 5 is electrically attached to a hard disk drive 112 coated with a conductive epoxy resin and electrically with the microprocessor 82. Be connected. In one embodiment, an antenna extension subsystem 178 is used to reliably install the dipole antenna 182 to receive a clear signal from the wireless "LAN" access point 30, as shown in FIG. .. The dipole antenna 182 at the end of the coaxial shield wire 186 is installed on the upper surface of the deck of the rear seat of the automobile 42. In another embodiment, the antenna 182 is mounted behind a plastic bumper cover. The length of the coaxial shielded cable 186 extends into the trunk, where it terminates on one side of the coaxial connector A190 on the dock 126. The printed circuit board antenna 198 is fixed to the container 150 of the storage and data link unit 14 in the vicinity of the antenna 116 of the wireless "LAN" PC card transmitter / receiver 114. The coaxial shielded cable 187 is connected to the printed circuit board antenna 198 and terminates at the coaxial connector B194 that fits into the coaxial connector A190 when the storage and data link unit 14 is placed in the dock 126.
[0033] In one embodiment, the output of the DAC 98 is plugged directly into the line level input in the system head unit of the existing car stereo 46. The DAC98 converts the decompressed digital audio into a line-level analog signal. In this case, the existing car stereo 46 system must provide the ability to switch to the auxiliary supply device. In another embodiment outlined in FIG. 10, the analog audio signal 286 output from the storage and data link unit 14 is input to the automotive audio system by being plugged into the FM antenna tap 206. To. The analog output from the DAC is modulated by the FM modulator 202. To use this setup, the user must tune the existing car stereo to the FM frequency at the bottom of the FM band, for example 87.5, which allows the audio content to be played on the existing car stereo 46 system. To. This type of connection to an existing car stereo 46 is commonly found in aftermarket CD changers.
【0034】<u style="single">Software Description-System Control Application</u>Referring here to FIG. 1, the system control application 210 runs on the PC18 and consists of two sub-applications, the core module 214 and the graphical user interface (GUI) module 218. Core module 214 manages the basic communication between the "Internet" and the PC18 and the basic communication between the PC18 and the automotive storage and playback system 10. In one embodiment, Core Module 214 is implemented as a multithreaded "Java" application running on PC18. A "Windows" version of the "Java" Virtual Machine (JVM) is on PC18 and runs there, decoding instructions for core module 214 for the "Windows" operating system.
[0035] Core module 214 includes a portion of the system control application 210 that acts on content and data 234 from the "Internet" 222, and also handles communication with the automotive storage and playback system 10, but is not limited to: It provides the following features: 1. Communication link. Access to content on the "Internet" at a specified location determined by user input into a "GUI" content editor, such as the Web-based Content Selection Guide 246, b. Communication with the "GUI" module 218 , And c. Access and communication to the automotive storage and playback system 10. 2. Management of caching (local storage) of content or other digital content file 234 from the "Internet" 3. Reading and writing to content database 226. 4. Transferring content file 234 from the "Internet" 222 to a "LAN" based automotive system. Manage and route the transfer of the digital content file 234 from the "Internet" 222 to the automotive storage and playback system 10, and b. To the automotive storage and playback system 10 of the cached digital content file 234 on the PC18. Transfer management and routing. 5. Scheduling. Access to content 234 from the "Internet" 222 at a time specified by the user or at the time provided by the instructions given by the rules through a "GUI" content editor such as the web-based content selection guide 246. Time-based automation of caching, and transfer. The scheduling function accesses the time and date input associated with the action stored in the content database 226 by the "GUI" module 218. The scheduling function periodically compares these time and date inputs with the current state of the PC18 built-in timer. If there is a match, the action is taken. 6. "Network Address Translation" (NAT) and routing. The transfer of digital file 234, which occurs directly from the "Internet" 222 to the automotive storage and playback system 10, requires a real-time connection to the "Internet" 222. 7. "Application / Software Distribution" of Automotive Memory and Playback System 10. The update of the control firmware 270 of the automobile storage and reproduction system 10 is stored in the PC 18 and can be distributed to the automobile storage and reproduction system 10 as needed. For example, the latest or updated "CODEC" 274 (sent as a "BLOB" (binary large object)) should be delivered to the automotive storage and playback system 10 via wireless "LAN" 34 and installed in memory. Can be done. Other types of applications can also be delivered to the automotive storage and playback system 10. 8. Transcoding. A type of content 234 will be received by the PC18, demodulated, recoded on the PC18 using a different "CODEC", and then transferred to the automotive storage and playback system 10. 9. Automatic discovery. The automotive memory and playback system 10 will be automatically authenticated over the wireless "LAN" 34 when within range. Core module 214 listens to regular broadcasts from automotive memory and playback system 10. 10. "Message transaction". The text or other content or data 234 from the "Internet" 222 can be transferred to the automotive storage and playback system 10 and displayed on the LCD 52. 11. Tag service. Tagging will be described in more detail herein below. The tag service includes the ability of Core Module 214 to periodically access specific locations on the "Internet" 222 to obtain and store accurate times and dates. 12. Synchronizing. Data such as user data and relevant information such as exact time and date need to be synchronized across three platforms (web, automotive storage and playback system 10, and PC18). The time and date data in Core Module 214 are therefore synchronized with external (absolute) criteria.
[0036] The "GUI" module 218 is implemented as a "Win32" application and is located on the PC18 and executed there. The "GUI" module 218 is used by the end user to organize and manage digital content 234 and content preferences. User content selections made using the "GUI" module 218 are stored in the local content database 226 by core module 214. Based on user input to the "GUI" module 218, the core module 214 modifies the content database 226 using the method expressed in the "XML" grammar called through "HTTP". Two examples of the "GUI" module 218 function are provided below to show how the system control application 210 works to deliver content to the automotive storage and playback system 10. The Audio Playlist Editor 238 is described as allowing the user to organize their own local audio content 234, and the Web-based Content Selection Guide 246 is described as allowing the user to select a digital subscription content service.
The GUI module 218 includes a segment that executes the GUI of a software application, including, but not limited to, the following functions. 1. Displaying "GUI" elements on a computer display for end users to see. 2. Confirmation of receipt of user response made by mouse and keyboard, or other instructions and interactive devices. 3. Preparation for the operation of the following "GUI" elements. a. Drag and drop content objects, b. Launch "GUI" buttons, c. Enter text, d. Select pull-down menus and menus, and e. Launch and activate dialog boxes. 4. Communication between the "GUI" module 218 and the core module 214. Selection and control operations performed by the end user are communicated to the corresponding core module 214.
[0038] The system control application 210 is a core module 214, a content database, and some of the "GUI" modules 218, all running simultaneously on multiple PC18s and / or storage gateways connected by the same "LAN". Designed to work with instances of. A user is expected to own and operate multiple PC18s with different contents cached on each PC18, for example, in one home. In another embodiment, a digital set-top box with a "DOCSIS" cable modem 22 and a wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver can include instances of core module 214 and content database 226 in addition to instances on PC18. Will. In one embodiment, attention will be paid to a single "GUI" module 218 located on and running on PC18.
【0039】<u style="single">Software Description-Audio Playlist Editor</u>FIG. 11 shows the audio playlist editor 238 displayed in front of the user on the PC desktop 236, showing that there are three organization levels: channel 250, playlist 254, and track 258. Channel 250 is a list of playlists 254, and playlist 254 is a list of tracks 258. Track 258 (audio file name) shown in the audio playlist editor 238 is a "GUI" element that represents the specification of files and routes on the hard disk drive 26 on the PC 18 and the list in the content database 226. Using the Audio Playlist Editor 238, users can create, delete, and reorder channels 250 and playlist 254, reorder tracks 258, and open the standard Windows dialog box. You can add track 258 to playlist 254 by using it to navigate to the location of local digital audio file 234. Track 258 can also be added to playlist 254 by dragging and dropping the digital audio file 234 icon from the window onto the track field of the audio playlist editor 238.
[0040] The user obtains digital audio files 234 stored in the hard disk drive 26 of the PC18, such as "MP3" files, in various ways, and these files, or files known as tracks 258, As shown above and in FIG. 8, the audio playlist editor 238 aspect of the "GUI" module 218 can be used to organize into channels 250 and playlist 254. The audio device playlist editor also includes the ability to select a particular channel 250 or playlist 254 that can be replicated to the automotive storage and playback system 10. As shown in Figure 11, this feature is accessed by right-clicking on the name of channel 250 or playlist 254 and selecting "sync with auto". The right-click pull-down menu 262 is shown in FIG. For example, the user titles channel 250 "My Car", includes several playlists 254, each with some songs, and then "sync with". You can select "Auto". Only the "MyCar" channel 250 and all child playlists 254 and tracks 258 will then be wirelessly synchronized to the automotive storage and playback system 10. The right-click menu on each channel 250 and playlist 254 also immediately initiates synchronization and the next file transfer process (assuming car 42 is within range of wireless "LAN" 34) "sync now" Includes selection.
[0041] In addition, a choice for automatically synchronizing all channels 250 and playlist 254 with locally cached content 234 is included in the Options menu. If the option to synchronize all channels 250 is not selected in the Options menu, no files will be transferred to the automotive storage and playback system 10. The user also receives periodic content delivered to the automotive storage and playback system 10 using aspects of the web-based content selection guide 246 of the "GUI" module 218, as shown above and in FIG. You may choose to do so. The choices made using the web-based Content Guide 246 for recurring content services are to periodically access the server on the "Internet" 222 where the content is located and download the content on the hard disk drive 26 of PC18. However, it requires a system control application 210 for caching content locally. These content selections made by the user using aspects of the "GUI" module 218 are recorded in the content database 226 by the core module 214.
【0042】<u style="single">Software Description-Web-based Content Guide</u>In one embodiment, the web-based content selection guide 246 facilitates and facilitates the discovery and selection of subscription content services on the "Internet" 222 for periodic delivery to automotive storage and playback systems 10. To do. With reference to FIG. 12, the web-based content content guide 242 is an "html" formatted web page accessed through a mini-browser, showing the scope of content content 248. Selecting "NPR" in the web-based content content guide 242 results in the content selection web page 246 shown in Figure 14. Content selection 264 with checkbox 268 is shown. Selections made using this interface result in the generation of pointers to the location of digital audio file 234 on the "Internet" 222 server. These files are periodically accessed and downloaded to the hard disk drive 26 of the PC 18 for the next transfer to the automotive storage and playback system 10. The cycle in which the subscription content file 234 is downloaded is based on the rules provided by each content provider. For example, some content files 234 are updated daily at 1 am on the content provider's "Internet" 222 server. In this case, one rule for accessing the server and downloading the content file 234 is that it should happen after 1 am. Similar to the rules governing the download of file 234, pointers to content file 234 of "Internet" 222 are stored in content database 226.
[0043] The web-based content guide function is not limited to the following, but may include the following functions. 1. Content type. As shown in FIG. 12, an interface for starting the link of the general content content 248 is first provided, and when the user makes a selection, the content content 248 becomes more specific, presents the content selection 264 to the user, and ends. 2. Content selection 264. As shown in Figure 13, users can subscribe to a daily version of the Radio Show. When box 268 is checked, pointers and rules for downloading digital audio file 234 are transferred from the "Internet" 222 server to content database 226 (by core module 214). The latest version of the radio show digital audio file 234 is then automatically transferred from the content provider's "Internet" 222 server to PC18 and from PC18 to the automotive storage and playback system 10 by core module 214 according to download rules. Will be done. 3. A system for retaining user preference information in order to customize the web-based content guide according to user selection.
【0044】<u style="single">Software Description-Control Firmware 270</u>The storage and data link unit 14 includes an operating system that is "linax" in one embodiment. With reference to FIG. 1 again, the control firmware 270 is on the storage and data link unit 14. The content database is also stored in the storage and data link unit 14. Some features of Control Firmware 270 include, but are not limited to: 1. Activate the broadcast duty cycle of wireless "LAN" 34 to automatically discover the automotive memory and playback system 10. 2. Communicate with PC18 via wireless "LAN" 34. Includes management of security codes used to encrypt wireless communications over wireless "LAN" 34. 3. Synchronize (transfer or delete) content according to changes in content database 226 on PC18. When communication with the PC 18 occurs, the control firmware 270 compares the content of the content database 226 of the PC 18 with the content database 230 of the automotive storage and playback system 10. This effect is described in detail below. 4. Monitor and respond to control the input from the user interface control module 50. Five. Decoding the digital audio file 234 according to the input from the controller and converting it to the analog signal 286. The "CODEC" 274, stored in memory and executed by the operating system, decrypts the digital audio file 234. The control firmware 270 includes a large buffer function that allows the hard disk drive 112 to pre-read and store a significant amount of digital audio file 234 currently being decrypted in DRAM, which makes the head of the hard disk drive 112 , Can be parked. By buffering such a large number of digital audio files 234, the head of the hard disk drive 112 can maintain a shorter working duty cycle when the head is in the reading position on the platter. The less time the head is on the platter, the less likely it is that a head crash will occur due to the impact load from the motion of the vehicle 42. 6. Temperature monitoring of hard disk drive 112. The temperature sensor on the hard disk drive 112 is constantly monitored with a duty cycle of 1-2 minutes. If the temperature approaches a certain operating temperature limit for the hard disk drive 112 (generally between 5 and 55 degrees Celsius), the control firmware for the hard disk drive 112 will disable the hard disk drive 112 (the platter can rotate). The head will be parked). Temperature monitoring of hard disk drive 112. The temperature sensor on the hard disk drive 112 is constantly monitored with a duty cycle of 1-2 minutes. If the temperature approaches a certain operating temperature limit for the hard disk drive 112 (generally between 5 and 55 degrees Celsius), the control firmware for the hard disk drive 112 will disable the hard disk drive 112 (the platter can rotate). The head will be parked). Temperature monitoring of hard disk drive 112. The temperature sensor on the hard disk drive 112 is constantly monitored with a duty cycle of 1-2 minutes. If the temperature approaches a certain operating temperature limit for the hard disk drive 112 (generally between 5 and 55 degrees Celsius), the control firmware for the hard disk drive 112 will disable the hard disk drive 112 (the platter can rotate). The head will be parked).
【0045】<u style="single">Operation of automotive memory and playback system and system synchronization</u> While the vehicle 42 is running, the wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 is disabled, but the vehicle storage and playback system 10 may be operated using the vehicle's battery power and is the vehicle 42's. The power system recharges the internal battery 122 of the storage and data link unit 14. If the engine of the vehicle 42 is turned off, the vehicle storage and playback system 10 can be used to play music using the built-in battery 122 as a power source (described below). If the engine of the car 42 is turned off, the computer subsystem of the storage and data link unit 14 becomes operational, the wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 is enabled, and every 10 minutes under the control of the control firmware 270. Send the discovery message all at once. This activity is powered by the built-in battery 122 of the automotive storage and playback system 10. By using the built-in battery 122, the power of the main battery of the vehicle 42 is never consumed by the activity of the vehicle storage and regeneration system 10. This discovery message, broadcast by the storage and data link unit 14, is encoded using the user's security code, so the automotive storage and playback system 10 allows it to be the user's wireless "LAN" 34 radio frequency field. When it is in the presence of, it simply receives the response.
[0046] In the content database 226 of the PC 18 and the hard disk drive 112 of the automotive storage and playback system 10 with wireless "LAN" based communication configured between the automotive storage and playback system 10 and the gateway storage system. The core module 214 and the control firmware 270 work together so that the action is taken in comparison with the content database 230 of. FIG. 14 is a flow chart showing a process for comparing content databases 226 and 230 and synchronizing content according to a new user selection.
【0047】<u style="single">User control and content playback</u>Referring to FIG. 2, the user interface control module 50 is connected to the storage and data link unit 14 via a cable and is located in the passenger compartment within the reach of the driver or passenger. The user interface module 50 may be mounted on the dashboard or installed so that the user can hold the user interface module 50. The user interface module 50 includes three levels of the interface, the LCD 52, which allows the display of channels 250, playlists 254, and tracks 258. The user interface module 50 also includes a central 4-way joystick controller 70 that allows the user to navigate horizontally between and within levels.
FIG. 15 shows a sequence of LCD 52 screens illustrating how the interface works. For example, when the 4-way joystick 70 is pushed up, the highlighted part of the LCD 52 is raised by one level. Similarly, moving the 4-way joystick 70 to the right moves the highlight of the LCD 52 to the next input at that level. The functionality of other control buttons, such as the previous track 66 and stop 58, is well known in the field of media players. Screen 1: The initial state of the user interface control module 50 is shown. The first line of text shows the current channel 250, the second line of text shows the current playlist, and the third line of text shows the current track 258. The player status icon 80 indicates a filled square symbol, which is a traditional symbol indicating that the playback system 10 is in "stop" mode, that is, nothing is playing. The level of channel 250 is highlighted with a graphic highlight (text is white on a black background). Screen 2: This screen shows the result of the activation of the right navigation on the joystick 70. The channel level label changes to "Channel 2". The playlist 254 level and track 258 level labels will also be updated to reflect the new items on "Channel 2". Screen 3: This screen shows the result of activating the downward navigation on the joystick 70. The highlight part moves from channel 250 level to playlist 254 level. Screen 4: This screen shows the result of the next activation of the right navigation on the joystick. The playlist 254 level changes to "Playlist 2", which is the next playlist 254 organized under "Channel 2". The track 258 level text is also updated to reflect the actual first track 258 contained in "Track 1" under "Playlist 2". Screen 5: This screen shows the result of the next activation of the play / pause button 54 of the user interface control module 50. "Track 1" starts playing. Screen 6: This screen shows the result of the next track button 62 of the interface control module 50 being activated twice. "Track 3" starts playing. The player status icon 80 changes from a black square to a right-pointing triangle. Screen 7: This screen shows the result of the next activation of the play / pause button 54 while track 258 is playing. Track 258 stops playing and the player status icon 80 becomes a "pause" icon. Screen 8: This screen shot shows the results of several different actions. First, the play / pause button 54 is activated, that is, "track 3" starts playing at the point where it ended when the play / pause button 54 was activated. Next, the right navigation on the joystick 70 is activated once. The line of track 258 proceeds to indicate the next track 258, or "track 4" in "playlist 2". "Track 3" continues to play. This feature allows the user to browse through the list structure of channel 250 / playlist 254 / track 258 while continuing to listen to the currently playing track 258. Screen 9: This screen shows when none of the other buttons are activated for 6 seconds. The display reverts to display channel 250, playlist 254, and currently playing track 258. The audio content is played on the car's existing stereo speakers and modified using the controls of the existing car stereo system (treble, bass, and volume, etc.). This screen shows the result of the next track button 62 of the interface control module 50 being activated twice. "Track 3" starts playing. The player status icon 80 changes from a black square to a right-pointing triangle. Screen 7: This screen shows the result of the next activation of the play / pause button 54 while track 258 is playing. Track 258 stops playing and the player status icon 80 becomes a "pause" icon. Screen 8: This screen shot shows the results of several different actions. First, the play / pause button 54 is activated, that is, "track 3" starts playing at the point where it ended when the play / pause button 54 was activated. Next, the right navigation on the joystick 70 is activated once. The line of track 258 proceeds to indicate the next track 258, or "track 4" in "playlist 2". "Track 3" continues to play. This feature allows the user to browse through the list structure of channel 250 / playlist 254 / track 258 while continuing to listen to the currently playing track 258. Screen 9: This screen shows when none of the other buttons are activated for 6 seconds. The display reverts to display channel 250, playlist 254, and currently playing track 258. The audio content is played on the car's existing stereo speakers and modified using the controls of the existing car stereo system (treble, bass, and volume, etc.). This screen shows the result of the next track button 62 of the interface control module 50 being activated twice. "Track 3" starts playing. The player status icon 80 changes from a black square to a right-pointing triangle. Screen 7: This screen shows the result of the next activation of the play / pause button 54 while track 258 is playing. Track 258 stops playing and the player status icon 80 becomes a "pause" icon. Screen 8: This screen shot shows the results of several different actions. First, the play / pause button 54 is activated, that is, "track 3" starts playing at the point where it ended when the play / pause button 54 was activated. Next, the right navigation on the joystick 70 is activated once. The line of track 258 proceeds to indicate the next track 258, or "track 4" in "playlist 2". "Track 3" continues to play. This feature allows the user to browse through the list structure of channel 250 / playlist 254 / track 258 while continuing to listen to the currently playing track 258. Screen 9: This screen shows when none of the other buttons are activated for 6 seconds. The display reverts to display channel 250, playlist 254, and currently playing track 258. The audio content is played on the car's existing stereo speakers and modified using the controls of the existing car stereo system (treble, bass, and volume, etc.). This screen shot shows the results of several different actions. First, the play / pause button 54 is activated, that is, "track 3" starts playing at the point where it ended when the play / pause button 54 was activated. Next, the right navigation on the joystick 70 is activated once. The line of track 258 proceeds to indicate the next track 258, or "track 4" in "playlist 2". "Track 3" continues to play. This feature allows the user to browse through the list structure of channel 250 / playlist 254 / track 258 while continuing to listen to the currently playing track 258. Screen 9: This screen shows when none of the other buttons are activated for 6 seconds. The display reverts to display channel 250, playlist 254, and currently playing track 258. The audio content is played on the car's existing stereo speakers and modified using the controls of the existing car stereo system (treble, bass, and volume, etc.). This screen shot shows the results of several different actions. First, the play / pause button 54 is activated, that is, "track 3" starts playing at the point where it ended when the play / pause button 54 was activated. Next, the right navigation on the joystick 70 is activated once. The line of track 258 proceeds to indicate the next track 258, or "track 4" in "playlist 2". "Track 3" continues to play. This feature allows the user to browse through the list structure of channel 250 / playlist 254 / track 258 while continuing to listen to the currently playing track 258. Screen 9: This screen shows when none of the other buttons are activated for 6 seconds. The display reverts to display channel 250, playlist 254, and currently playing track 258. The audio content is played on the car's existing stereo speakers and modified using the controls of the existing car stereo system (treble, bass, and volume, etc.).
【0049】<u style="single">Removal of storage and data link unit 14</u>The storage and data link unit 14 can be removed by removing the left and right latches 130 and 134. There are several reasons for removing the storage and data link unit 14, which are due to alternative synchronization methods, to ensure operation when the vehicle 42 is significantly affected by temperature, and This is for use as a mobile media player.
[0050] There are two alternative synchronization methods. It should be noted that even if the memory and data link unit 14 is removed from the vehicle 42, it will continue to broadcast (find a server) on a regular basis. In the scenario where the user cannot place the user's car 42 within the range of the home wireless "LAN" 34 (for example, the user lives in an apartment), the storage and data link unit 14 is removed and the home It can be carried within the range of wireless "LAN" 34 for wireless communication and synchronization as described above.
Synchronization can also be done directly to the PC 18 via a wired USB connection. The system control application 210 on the user's PC 18 automatically recognizes the storage and data link unit 14 and performs appropriate synchronization similar to that described in the wireless "LAN" 34 scenario. In climates with ambient temperatures above the operating temperature range of the hard disk drive 112, the user may remove the storage and data link unit 14 and store it in a heated or air-conditioned environment while not driving the vehicle 42. it can. The storage and data link unit 14 is subsequently installed when the user drives the vehicle 42.
【0052】<u style="single">Tagging</u>The tag button 78 included on the user interface module 50 of FIG. 8 is of particular interest to the user and is used to generate a digital record of the audio content 234 played by the automotive storage and playback system 10. The user presses the tag button 78 if he wants to receive more information about the audio content item 234 he is listening to. Software processing is invoked, which causes the recording of the audio content being played, including information such as the song (file) title and "ID3" data embedded in the content file 234, to the memory of the storage and data link unit 14. Stored in a tag database 266. The time and date of activation of tag button 78 is also stored in tag database 266.
[0053] When the vehicle 42 is within the range of the local wireless "LAN" 34, the record of the tagged items is automatically recorded in the tag database 294 attached to the system control application 210 of the storage gateway system of the home PC18. It is transferred, from which the record is automatically transferred to the user's tag aggregation page on the website that accompanies the user. The website software application processes the tag recording information and provides the user with enhanced information or ancillary content that accompanies the tagged content. Users can then search for tag-aggregated web pages and related auxiliary content in any "HTML" -based environment, such as "Internet Explorer" or "Netscape Navigator" commonly found on home PC18. You can use a browser. Auxiliary content can be, for example, information about a particular song artist, album art, song lyrics, concert dates, and options for purchasing the next content, or the purchase and / or download of a particular digital audio file 234. Information about.
The tag function works with both downloaded audio content and broadcast radio content. For the downloaded content, the song title and other metadata will be incorporated into the digital audio file 234, so that the song title and other information can be accessed directly by the control firmware 270. Radio content tagging involves recording radio tuner frequency, time, and date information. When this data is transferred to a particular tag processing software application on a server on the "Internet" 222, that data is about this particular song through the playlist information service of the radio station that publishes the broadcast content playlist. Can be used to retrieve information about.
【0055】<u style="single">Alternative Embodiment-Activated by Additional Control Units</u>In this embodiment, the storage and data link unit 14 is used as a portable digital audio player. The interface control module 50 receives power from the storage and data link unit 14, which can be fully operational when operated outside the vehicle. In one embodiment, the portable interface control unit can be plugged into the storage and data link unit 14. In this embodiment, the storage and data link unit 14 also includes a headphone output jack. The portable interface control unit is used to power the storage and data link unit 14, and the interface control device is used as described above. When the play button is activated, the specific audio file 234 is decrypted and an audio signal is generated for use in headphones. In a different embodiment, the interface control module 50 includes a connector a few inches below the cable 290 permanently installed in the vehicle 42 and unplugs from the installed cable 290 to store and data link units. Can be plugged into 14 corresponding connectors. Therefore, the same interface control module 50 can be used in automobiles and also as a portable interface control module 50.
【0056】<u style="single">Alternative Embodiment-Integrated Hard Disk Drive Heating System</u>To provide operation of the hard disk drive 112 at very low temperatures, one embodiment of the automotive storage and playback system 10 includes a hard disk drive 112 heating subsystem. The hard disk drive 112 heating subsystem consists of a copper-coated "Kapton" heating member 298 that is abutted and secured to the case of the hard disk drive 112, as shown in FIG. A thermally conductive, sticky thin film is used to attach the "Kapton" heating member 298 to the hard disk drive 112. The "Kapton" heating member 298 is a known technique for heating an article when space is constrained. The electric current is sent through a large trace of copper adhering to the "Kapton" substrate. The current then generates heat that is transferred to the case of the hard disk drive 112. A temperature monitoring subsystem, which is one embodiment of the control firmware 270, controls the heating of the hard disk drive 112 so that the operating temperature limit is not exceeded.
【0057】<u style="single">Alternative Embodiment-Integrated Head Unit</u>In an alternative embodiment, the control interface is integrated into the head unit 302 shown in FIG. 17 and mounted on the dashboard similar to the existing car stereo 46 head unit device. Referring here to FIG. 18, the head unit 302 is connected to the storage and data link unit 14 through an analog audio 286 cable and a serial communication standard RS232 data cable 290 to transmit and receive control messages. The head unit 302 provides all the functionality of an existing automotive stereo head unit, but has the additional functionality of providing an interface to the automotive storage and playback system 10 as described above. The head unit 302 is also connected to the car's AM / FM antenna 48 through an antenna cable. The head unit 302 includes a stereo sound processor, an audio mixer, a preamplifier, an amplifier, an AM / FM (radio) tuner, and a user interface for controlling content and other functions. A radio tuner is included in the device so that the automotive storage and playback system 10 can play conventional broadcast radio audio. The user switches the content source by activating the source button. The LCD will also show metadata that can be incorporated into the music file itself. Tag button 78 is also included.
【0058】<u style="single">Alternative embodiment</u>The storage gateway system can be connected to the "Internet" by any "Internet" connection method, such as a conventional telephone line modem dial-up, a "DSL" connection, or a fixed wireless broadband connection as provided by "Sprint". It is possible. The large-capacity storage memory in the automotive storage and playback system 10 can include flash memory that can be designed to be fully removable, partially removable, or fully removable. The non-detachable flash memory consists of a flash memory chip that is permanently soldered to a printed circuit board located inside the case of the storage and data link unit 14. Detachable flash memory is used in the form of removable memory cards such as the "Compact Flash" memory card, which is a known standard for removable flash memory.
[0059] In an alternative embodiment, the head unit further includes a CD drive or an audio cassette drive so that the automotive storage and playback system 10 can include certain general car stereo functionality. By including a CD drive or an audio cassette drive, the user will be able to listen to the music content downloaded from his PC18 and will also be able to listen to the music content played from the CD or cassette tape.
[0060] In an alternative embodiment, a system capable of supporting the transfer and presentation of data other than music file data is created. Content such as text, image files, video files, or interactive multimedia files can be downloaded to the automotive storage and playback system 10 where the content is displayed on a high resolution graphic LCD. This application allows the user to send information such as driving direction, map, or movie to the automotive storage and playback system 10, thus having access to this information while in the car. ..
For movies such as "MPEG" files, car passengers can watch video entertainment on the move. Thus, the automotive storage and playback system 10 will include one or more large video display units and an alternative audio output interface. For example, a driver can listen to a radio broadcast while a passenger in the backseat is watching an "MPEG" movie while listening to movie audio using stereo headphones.
[0062] In a further embodiment, the automotive storage and playback system 10 can be used as a gateway for transferring data to other computing or electronic devices located in the vehicle. Data links in the form of electrical wiring or cables are used to connect the automotive storage and playback system 10 to other devices in the vehicle. The application allows users to easily transfer large amounts of information between their car and their home computer. Examples of this application include transferring mileage, speed, and fuel consumption records back to the home PC18, new software in the car's central computing controller to improve performance or change settings. Upload the code (these changes could be made available by the car manufacturer on the "Internet") and put the map database into the car storage and playback system 10 for use in navigation. Includes downloading. For this embodiment, the communication link local to the vehicle extends to the vehicle's on-board control computer. The RS232 port on the storage and data link unit 14 is connected to the corresponding RS232 port on the onboard computer. New firmware with a format compatible with the on-board controller will be downloaded. At this point, the operating parameters of the vehicle are reprogrammed. Dinant Engineering offers engine controller firmware upgrades for BMW vehicles with improved performance and efficiency. In addition, BMW vehicles have several features that can be reprogrammed by BMW distributors. For example, a BMW car can be programmed so that all doors are automatically locked a few seconds after the car starts moving after the occupant gets in the car. This feature can be activated or deactivated according to the user's priority by using a car-specific function programming application running on the home PC18.
[0063] In a further embodiment, the automotive storage and playback system 10 can be used to transfer audio audio files from the home PC 18 to the car and from the car to the home PC 18. In this embodiment, the head unit of the automotive storage and playback system 10 further includes a microphone used to capture audio recordings that are later stored in memory. Examples of this application include recording your own messages that you can later transfer to your home PC18 and store them there, and recording your own messages (such as street directions) on your home PC18. Includes storing those messages in an automotive storage and playback system 10 for subsequent use while driving. A microphone mounted near the driver's seat is wired to the A / D converter and DSP subsystem contained within the storage and data link unit 14. Aspects of the control firmware on the storage and data link unit 14 allow the user to initiate the recording function, the user's voice is encoded by the data and storage link unit, and the range of the home wireless "LAN" 34. It is stored until the car enters inside and the voice is automatically transferred to the home PC18.
[0064] In another embodiment, the storage and data link unit 14 is such that the battery and the wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver are integrated into the dock 126, and the processing components of the storage and data link unit 14 ( (Including USB connector) is designed to be inside the removable part of the storage and data link unit 14. The wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 and battery 122 remain in the car, thereby minimizing the weight of the removable portion of the storage and data link unit 14. The user carries the device to a home dock of the same form as the automotive dock 126, which is connected to the PC18 or storage gateway system via USB. The home dock also powers the storage and data link unit 14. Synchronization takes place when the storage and data link unit 14 is in the home dock.
In a further related embodiment, the local battery 122 remains in the trunk, while the wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 (integrated with the dock 126) is included in the storage and data link unit 14, detachable storage and Includes data link unit 14. A home dock powered by an AC connection is provided. The home dock converts AC from the wall into DC that can be used to power the computer and wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 of the removable storage and data link unit 14. The home dock can be placed anywhere within the range of the home wireless "LAN" 34, for example near the front door of the house. The removable storage and data link unit 14 is placed in a home dock, which receives power and immediately connects to the home "LAN" 34, where replication or synchronization begins.
FIG. 18 is an aftermarket automotive storage and playback system that is a media player with an audio / video display unit 306 that connects to a storage and data link unit 14 through an RS232 data cable 290 and an analog audio / video cable 310. Shows 10, which is used in the passenger compartment to control and view the content 234 stored in the hard disk drive 112.
[0067] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 19, data is wirelessly transferred from the storage and data link unit 14 to the wireless media player unit 318. The storage and data link unit 14 acts as a storage gateway and server for the wireless head unit 318. The system control application operates on the storage and data link unit 14. Each media player unit 318 includes a wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver connected to an antenna that allows signals to be received from the wireless transmitter / receiver of the storage and data link unit 14. The storage and data link unit 14 contains data that is wirelessly transferred from the home PC 18 and the "Internet" and stored on the hard disk drive 112, and the head unit 318 wirelessly transfers this data from the storage and data link unit 14. You can access it. Thus, "MP3" songs or other audio stored on the hard disk drive 112 of the storage and data link unit 14 can be played immediately so that movies or other multimedia can be wirelessly transmitted to the wireless media player head unit 318. Can be transmitted wirelessly to the car stereo head unit for.
[0068] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 20, the storage and data link unit 14 is connected to the media player head unit 322 through a 100 megabit / sec "Ethernet LAN" 326 system. The 100 megabit / sec "LAN" 326 system is capable of processing multiple audio or video streams from the storage and data link unit 14 to various head units 322, as well as control messages.
[0069] In another embodiment, the data is wirelessly transferred from the storage and data link unit 14 to the PDA. The storage and data link unit 14 acts as a storage gateway and server for the PDA. The PDA has a wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver that allows signals to be received from the wireless transmitter / receiver of the storage and data link unit 14. The storage and data link unit 14 includes data that is wirelessly transferred from the home PC 18 and stored in the hard disk drive 112, and this data can be used in the vehicle or anywhere within the range of the storage and data link unit 14. On the other hand, it can be accessed wirelessly by PDA. This data could include daily schedules, driving directions and maps, digital movies where the PDA has video decoding and playback capabilities, and content such as single or multiplayer games. Let's go.
[0070] FIG. 21 shows a block diagram of an automobile including both a wireless "LAN" transmitter / receiver 114 and a wireless "WAN" transmitter / receiver. Users can request and download content regardless of where the car is. However, because "WAN" bandwidth is more expensive and slower, downloading "WAN" content will be limited to time-dependent narrowband information such as traffic updates and messages. The "WAN" channel can also upload tag messages based on the activation of the user's tag button. The tag message is routed to the corresponding tag processing server.
[0071] In this embodiment, a "WAN" (cellular) chipset is placed in the storage and data link unit 14. A separate antenna is used and connected to the "WAN" radio input. The operating system on the storage and data link unit 14 monitors the "WAN" subsystem that receives and records content and connects to the cellular system for content (message) transmission or real-time voice transmission. Includes controlling software. The memory and reproduction device for automobiles and how to use it were explained. The present invention has been described herein for a particular embodiment, but one of ordinary skill in the art will readily come up with many modifications and variations thereof. Therefore, all such modifications and modifications are included in the intended scope of the invention as defined by the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [FIG. 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a "LAN" -based automotive content distribution and playback system 10.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a LAN based automotive caching and regeneration subsystem when installed in an automobile.
FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a LAN based automotive caching and regeneration subsystem.
FIG. 4 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a storage and data link unit.
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a memory and data link unit with one side of the container removed.
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a snap latch engaged with a container.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a snap latch removed from a container.
FIG. 8 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a user interface control unit.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an antenna subsystem of a LAN based automotive content distribution system.
FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of an automobile storage and reproduction system connected to a car stereo through an FM antenna.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a PC18 desktop having an audio device playlist editor.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a desktop PC 18 having a content content guide page.
FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a desktop PC 18 having a graphic user interface for content selection web pages.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a flow chart of synchronization between a storage gateway system and an automobile storage and reproduction system 10.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an embodiment of an LCD sequence of a user interface module.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an embodiment of a hard disk drive to which a heating element is attached.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an embodiment of an integrated head unit.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an embodiment of an automobile storage and playback system 10 having an audio / video media player.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a schematic embodiment of a wireless media server system arranged in an automobile.
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a schematic diagram of an Ethernet based automotive server system.
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of an automotive telematics system having both wireless LAN and wireless WAN communication functions.
21 sheets
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Every citation, both ways
| Document | Relation | Office |
|---|---|---|
| US5557541A | Cites | United States of America |
| US6055566A | Cites | United States of America |
| JP2002123275A | Cites | Japan |
19 members in 6 offices
Priority claims14
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Members19
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|---|---|---|---|
| US2002164973A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| WO03012579A2 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A2 | |
| AU2001297990A1 | Australia | A1 | |
| KR20030051729A | Republic of Korea | A | |
| WO03012579A3 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A3 | |
| EP1410594A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| JP2004537896A | Japan | A | |
| US7200357B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US2007178830A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| KR100856359B1 | Republic of Korea | B1 | |
| JP4159465B2This record | Japan | B2 | |
| US7920824B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US2011117978A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US2011178616A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| WO03012579A9 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A9 | |
| EP1410594B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| US10172035B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| US2019159063A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US10631201B2 | United States of America | B2 |
40 legal events, as the office reported them to INPADOC
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Numbers
- Publication
- 4159465
- Publication, DOCDB
- 4159465
- Publication, EPODOC
- JP4159465B
- Application
- 2003517698
- Application, DOCDB
- 2003517698
- Application, EPODOC
- JP20030517698
Titles2
- Japanese
- 自動車用記憶及び再生装置とその使用方法
- English
- Automotive memory and playback devices and how to use them
Classification
- CPC, 21
- G11B27/34
- H04W28/06
- G11B27/10
- H04W4/00
- H04W4/18
- H04W28/18
- H04W84/12
- H04W88/08
- H04L67/306
- H04L67/12
- H04L69/329
- H04W4/029
- H04W4/20
- H04W4/02
- H04W12/50
- H04L65/764
- H04L67/52
- H04L67/565
- H04W4/40
- H04L9/40
- H04L65/1101
- IPC, 15
- H04Q7 38
- H04Q7 32
- H04Q7 22
- G10K15 02
- H04L12 28
- H04S1 00
- G06Q50 10
- G06Q50 30
- H04L29 06
- H04L29 08
- H04W4 18
- H04W28 06
- H04W28 18
- H04W84 12
- H04W88 08
