US6466136B2
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Mirror-based audio system for a vehicle
Assignee: Magna Donnelly Corp
•
Filing: 2001-07-11
•
Granted: 2002-10-15
•
Expires: 2021-07-11
Abstract
Abstract A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprises an interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle. The plurality of microphones comprise at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin. The at least two microphones are (i) positioned within an interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to an interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to an interior rearview mirror assembly, or (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield. The audio system further includes a control which is operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out the non-vocal signals.
Inventors
- 👤 Jonathan E. DeLine
- 👤 Niall R. Lynam
- 👤 Ralph A. Spooner
- 👤 Phillip A. March
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-10-26 09:42
CPC Classifications
B; B60; B60R; B60R1/00; B60R1/12; B60R11/00; B60R11/04; B60R1/02; B60R1/04; B60R11/02; B60R11/0217; B60R11/0247; B60S; B60S1/00; B60S1/02; B60S1/04; B60S1/06; B60S1/08; B60S1/0818; B60S1/0822; B60S1/0874; B60S1/0881; B60S1/0885; H; H04; H04N; H04N23/00; H04N23/50; H04N23/54; H04N23/56; H04N25/00; H04N25/70; H04N25/76; H04N7/00; H04N7/18; H04N7/183; B60Q; B60Q1/00; B60Q1/26; B60Q1/2661; B60Q1/2665; B60R11/0241; B60R2001/1253; B60R2001/1284; B60R2011/0001; B60R2011/0003; B60R2011/0026; B60R2011/0033; B60R2011/0042; B60R2011/0049; B60R2011/0064; B60R2011/0077; B60R2300/00; B60R2300/10; B60R2300/101; G; G02; G02B; G02B27/00; G02B27/01; G02B27/0101; G02B2027/0118; G02B2027/012; G02B6/00; H04R; H04R2499/00; H04R2499/10; H04R2499/13
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 115
Claim 1
Independent Claim
171 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
171 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
36 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones is directed toward an area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
34 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 2 , wherein said audio system distinguishes said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 10:1.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 2 , wherein said at least one of said at least two microphones comprises a single directional microphone and is fixedly mounted and directed toward the area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
44 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 2 , wherein said at least two microphones are positioned within a module mounted to the windshield, said module being positioned between said interior rearview mirror assembly and a headliner extending along an upper edge of the windshield.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said control is operable to select at least one of said output signals from at least one of said at least two microphones and to provide the at least one selected output signal to said audio system.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
25 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 further including an indicator operable to indicate when said vocal signals are being adequately distinguished by said control.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
29 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
51 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 8 , wherein said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system further includes at least one mirror-based accessory.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
79 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 10 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises at least one of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
56 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 10 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
31 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 further comprising at least a portion of at least one of a cellular telephone system, an emergency communication system and an audio recording system.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 further including an illumination source for a vehicle security system.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
58 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 14 , wherein said illumination source for a vehicle security system is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said reflector element comprises an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
28 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 16 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly includes electronic circuitry for at least adjusting the reflectivity of said electrochromic reflector element.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
55 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 17 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones of said audio system at least one of: a) accesses a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly, and b) shares a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
85 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 18 , wherein said electronic circuitry is associated with at least one mirror-based accessory selected from the group consisting of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
18 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system controls a mechatronic element.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
33 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system communicates with devices or components in the vehicle via at least one of a network and a multiplex system.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
39 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 1 , wherein said non-vocal signals originate from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
214 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element, said reflector element comprising an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; and said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal, said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
214 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element, said reflector element comprising an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; and said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal, said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
36 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones is directed toward an area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
34 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 24 , wherein said audio system distinguishes said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 10:1.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 24 , wherein said at least one of said at least two microphones comprises a single directional microphone and is fixedly mounted and directed toward the area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
44 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 24 , wherein said at least two microphones are positioned within a module mounted to the windshield, said module being positioned between said interior rearview mirror assembly and a headliner extending along an upper edge of the windshield.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said control is operable to select at least one of said output signals from at least one of said at least two microphones and to provide the at least one selected output signal to said audio system.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
25 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 further including an indicator operable to indicate when said vocal signals are being adequately distinguished by said control.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
29 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
51 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 30 , wherein said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system further includes at least one mirror-based accessory.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
79 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 32 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises at least one of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
56 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 32 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
31 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 further comprising at least a portion of at least one of a cellular telephone system, an emergency communication system and an audio recording system.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 further including an illumination source for a vehicle security system.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
58 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 36 , wherein said illumination source for a vehicle security system is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes a video device.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 38 , wherein said video device comprises a CMOS imaging array.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
28 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly includes electronic circuitry for at least adjusting the reflectivity of said electrochromic reflector element.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
55 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 40 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones of said audio system at least one of: a) accesses a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly, and b) shares a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
85 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 41 , wherein said electronic circuitry is associated with at least one mirror-based accessory selected from the group consisting of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
18 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system controls a mechatronic element.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
33 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 23 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system communicates with devices or components in the vehicle via at least one of a network and a multiplex system.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
252 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element, said reflector element comprising an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal; and wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle, said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprising at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
252 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element, said reflector element comprising an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal; and wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle, said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprising at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
36 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones is directed toward an area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
34 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 46 , wherein said audio system distinguishes said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
34 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 47 , wherein said audio system distinguishes said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 10:1.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 46 , wherein said at least one of said at least two microphones comprises a single directional microphone and is fixedly mounted and directed toward the area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
44 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 46 , wherein said at least two microphones are positioned within a module mounted to the windshield, said module being positioned between said interior rearview mirror assembly and a headliner extending along an upper edge of the windshield.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said control is operable to select at least one of said output signals from at least one of said at least two microphones and to provide the at least one selected output signal to said audio system.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
25 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 further including an indicator operable to indicate when said vocal signals are being adequately distinguished by said control.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises a compass display.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system further includes at least one mirror-based accessory.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
79 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 54 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises at least one of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
56 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 54 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
31 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 further comprising at least a portion of at least one of a cellular telephone system, an emergency communication system and an audio recording system.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 further including an illumination source for a vehicle security system.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
58 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 58 , wherein said illumination source for a vehicle security system is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes a video device.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 60 , wherein said video device comprises a CMOS imaging array.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
28 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly includes electronic circuitry for at least adjusting the reflectivity of said electrochromic reflector element.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
55 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 62 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones of said audio system at least one of: a) accesses a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly, and b) shares a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
85 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 63 , wherein said electronic circuitry is associated with at least one mirror-based accessory selected from the group consisting of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
18 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system controls a mechatronic element.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
33 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 45 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system communicates with devices or components in the vehicle via at least one of a network and a multiplex system.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
265 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal; said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1; and wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle, said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
265 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal; said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1; and wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle, said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
36 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones is directed toward an area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
34 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 68 , wherein said audio system distinguishes said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 10:1.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 68 , wherein said at least one of said at least two microphones comprises a single directional microphone and is fixedly mounted and directed toward the area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
44 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 68 , wherein said at least two microphones are positioned within a module mounted to the windshield, said module being positioned between said interior rearview mirror assembly and a headliner extending along an upper edge of the windshield.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said control is operable to select at least one of said output signals from at least one of said at least two microphones and to provide the at least one selected output signal to said audio system.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
25 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 further including an indicator operable to indicate when said vocal signals are being adequately distinguished by said control.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises a video system.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system further includes at least one mirror-based accessory.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
79 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 75 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises at least one of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
56 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 75 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
31 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 further comprising at least a portion of at least one of a cellular telephone system, an emergency communication system and an audio recording system.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 further including an illumination source for a vehicle security system.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
58 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 79 , wherein said illumination source for a vehicle security system is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes a video device.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 81 , wherein said video device comprises a CMOS imaging array.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
21 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said reflector element comprises an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
28 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 83 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly includes electronic circuitry for at least adjusting the reflectivity of said electrochromic reflector element.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
55 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 84 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones of said audio system at least one of: a) accesses a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly, and b) shares a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
85 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 85 , wherein said electronic circuitry is associated with at least one mirror-based accessory selected from the group consisting of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
18 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system controls a mechatronic element.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
33 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 67 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system communicates with devices or components in the vehicle via at least one of a network and a multiplex system.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
300 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element and wherein said reflector element comprises an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal; said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1; and wherein said interior rearview mirror system further includes at least one mirror-based accessory and said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises at least one of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
300 words
A mirror-based audio system for a vehicle comprising: an interior rearview mirror system including an interior rearview mirror assembly, said interior rearview mirror assembly including a reflector element and wherein said reflector element comprises an electrochromic reflector element having electrically variable reflectivity; said interior rearview mirror system including a plurality of microphones for receiving audio signals within a cabin of the vehicle, said plurality of microphones comprising at least two microphones which generate output signals indicative of sound generated within the vehicle cabin, said at least two microphones being one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to a windshield of the vehicle; said audio system further comprising a control operable to distinguish the presence of vocal signals versus non-vocal signals and to at least partially filter out said non-vocal signals, said non-vocal signals originating from at least one noise source selected from the group consisting of engine noise, road noise, wind noise, HVAC noise, a radio and a turn signal; said audio system distinguishing said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 2:1; and wherein said interior rearview mirror system further includes at least one mirror-based accessory and said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises at least one of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
36 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones is directed toward an area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
34 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 90 , wherein said audio system distinguishes said vocal signals received at said at least two microphones from said non-vocal signals by a ratio of at least 10:1.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 90 , wherein said at least one of said at least two microphones comprises a single directional microphone and is fixedly mounted and directed toward the area encompassing the general location of a head of a driver of the vehicle.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
44 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 90 , wherein said at least two microphones are positioned within a module mounted to the windshield, said module being positioned between said interior rearview mirror assembly and a headliner extending along an upper edge of the windshield.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
46 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said control is operable to select at least one of said output signals from at least one of said at least two microphones and to provide the at least one selected output signal to said audio system.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
25 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 further including an indicator operable to indicate when said vocal signals are being adequately distinguished by said control.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
29 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes at least one control input for at least one accessory of the vehicle.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
51 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 96 , wherein said at least one accessory of the vehicle comprises at least one of a map reading light, a temperature display, a compass display, a global positioning system antenna, a rain sensor, a video system, a tire pressure display and a security system.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises a video device.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory comprises a compass sensor.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
56 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said at least one mirror-based accessory is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
31 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 further comprising at least a portion of at least one of a cellular telephone system, an emergency communication system and an audio recording system.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 further including an illumination source for a vehicle security system.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
58 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 102 , wherein said illumination source for a vehicle security system is one of (i) positioned within said interior rearview mirror assembly, (ii) positioned adjacent to said interior rearview mirror assembly, (iii) positioned in an attachment to said interior rearview mirror assembly, and (iv) positioned within a module mounted to the windshield.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
19 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly further includes a video device.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
17 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 104 , wherein said video device comprises a CMOS imaging array.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
28 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said interior rearview mirror assembly includes electronic circuitry for at least adjusting the reflectivity of said electrochromic reflector element.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
55 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 106 , wherein at least one of said at least two microphones of said audio system at least one of: a) accesses a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly, and b) shares a component of said electronic circuitry of said interior rearview mirror assembly.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
85 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 107 , wherein said electronic circuitry is associated with at least one mirror-based accessory selected from the group consisting of a global positioning system antenna, a motion sensor, a rain sensor, a video device, an interior light of the vehicle, an automatic toll booth transducer, a security system status indicator, a compass, a compass sensor, a temperature display, a temperature sensor, a tire pressure indicator display, a seat occupancy detection antenna, a seat occupancy detection transducer and a loudspeaker.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
18 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system controls a mechatronic element.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
33 words
The mirror-based audio system of claim 89 , wherein said interior rearview mirror system communicates with devices or components in the vehicle via at least one of a network and a multiplex system.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2005-10-14 | 2006-04-15 | 2006-10-15 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2009-10-14 | 2010-04-15 | 2010-10-15 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2013-10-14 | 2014-04-15 | 2014-10-15 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |