Patent Document

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of the following Provisional U.S. Patent Application: “Home PC to LAN Car Content Acquisition and Player System”, application No. 60/242,049, filed Oct. 20, 2000. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates generally to ubiquitous computing devices and, more particularly, to providing digital content from the Internet to an automobile. 
   BACKGROUND 
   The rapid buildup of telecommunications infrastructure combined with substantial investment in Internet-based businesses and technology has brought Internet connectivity to a large segment of the population. Recent market statistics show that a majority of households in the U.S. own at least one personal computer (PC), and a significant number of these PCs are connected to the Internet. Although the majority of household PC are connected to the Internet by dialup modem connections, broadband connectivity is being rapidly adopted and is decreasing in price as a variety of technologies are introduced and compete in the marketplace. A large majority of households in the U.S. and Europe are viable for at least one or more type of broadband connection, such as cable, DSL, optical networks, fixed wireless, or two-way satellite transmission. 
   A market for home networking technology has emerged, driven by the need to share an Internet connection between two or more PCs, and to connect all the PCs to productivity peripherals. There has been innovation in local area network (LAN) technology based on end-user desire for simplicity and ease of installation. Installing Ethernet cable is impractical for a majority of end-users, therefore a number of no-new-wires technologies have been introduced. 
   Wireless radio-frequency (RF) LAN technology has also been introduced into the home networking market. Theoretically, wireless technology is the most convenient for the end user since there is virtually no installation. There are curently two prevalent standards for wireless networking, including 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 the transmission of data. Both of these technologies have effective ranges of approximately 150 feet in a typical household setting. RF transceivers are required for each device to communicate on the network. In addition to utilizing Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) protocols, IEEE 802.11b and HomeRF include additional encryption and security protocol layers so that the user&#39;s device have controlled access to data being sent through the LAN. 
   Due to market competition and the effect of Moore&#39;s Law, home networking technology is greatly increasing in performance and availability, while decreasing in price. For example, the IEEE 802.11 technology roadmap shows the introduction of 802.11a at 54 Mbps, also utilizing the 5 GHz band. It is important to note that LAN data-rates are increasing much faster than wide-area (broadband) data-rates, such as the data-rates provided by “last mile” technologies including DSL, DOCSIS. 
   The availability of home networking technology and broadband proliferation brings with it the introduction of the residential gateway, a device that exists to connect a local area network or networks in the home, to the Internet. There are many types of gateways including DSL modems and cable modem. Digital cable set-top boxes are now being introduced with integral DOCSIS cable modem and hard disk drives. Other residential gateways have been introduced that include PC comparable processing power and hard disk drives, as well as cable and DSL modems, and LAN transceivers. 
   While networked PCs with Internet connectivity provide greater convenience for productivity applications, there are other trends that are influencing end user&#39;s content experiencing habits. Most notably, the digitization of virtually all media types is creating content portability and reusability that are affording new uses and content presentation scenarios. For example, Personal Video Recorders (hereafter PVRs) are increasing in popularity. These devices are an improvement on VCR “time-shifting” functionality, allowing users to record, pause, and start live broadcast media, almost in real time. These devices digitize terrestrially broadcast television content and store the files on a hard disk drive, providing much faster random access, fast-forwarding, and rewinding. A graphical user interface is provided that allows users to make content preference selections. 
   The MP3 digital audio format is an audio encoding technology that allows consumers to further compress digital audio files such as those found on Compact Disks, to much smaller sizes with very little loss in sound quality. For example, the MP3 format allows for compression of audio content to approximately 1 million bytes per minute of audio, at near Compact Disk quality. The smaller size of MP3 encoded audio files has enabled these files to be shared by users across the Internet, since the digital transfer of these files can be completed in a reasonable amount of time with a broadband connection. A variety of Internet-based digital music access and distribution services have appeared that provide means for users to gain access to digital audio files. 
   In addition to music, many other types of audio content are now available in digital format, such as spoken-word content, news, commentary, and educational content. Digital files containing audio recordings of books being read aloud are available for download via the Internet. 
   PC-based digital audio software players, such as WinAmp provided by AOL/TimeWarner, have been created that provide a convenient graphical user interface and software decoding of MP3 files. PC software digital audio players allow users to play MP3 files on their PC, using an existing sound card with external speakers. Software digital audio players typically include playlist editors, which is are applications that allows users to organize their MP3 or other digital music files. Playlists are files that include names and file system path designations to file based digital audio files. 
   Users who amass a large quantity of digital audio files often have a desire to listen to those audio files at places other than at the PC. Portable MP3 playback devices have been developed for this purpose. Portable MP3 playback devices are significantly smaller than portable CD players because they contain no moving parts, only solid-state flash memory, a microprocessor for decoding MP3-formatted audio content, and batteries. 
   One limitation of portable MP3 playback devices is that the cost per bit of audio content stored is still very high because of the high cost of flash memory. The typical portable digital audio playback device includes enough flash memory to store about one CD&#39;s worth of digital music. MP3 enthusiasts may own hundreds or thousands of MP3 files. The result is that the user is burdened with having to continually manually change the music files in the device by plugging the device into the PC and operating a user interface to delete and add new music if they want to listen to a wide range of music. 
   Digital audio enthusiasts, as well as music enthusiasts in general, have a desire to listen to their audio collections in their automobiles. Evidence of this is the market success of automotive-based CD changers. Since user&#39;s typically do not purchase multiple copies of CDs, they must manually transport CDs between the automobile and home stereo system if they want to listen to the audio content at both locations. 
   Telematics is a field of technology that includes mobile, automobile-based telecommunications. Increasingly, automobiles include a variety of telematics equipment and capabilities, such as on-board cellular communications and navigation systems. However, due to the cost per bit of transmitted data, even in 2.5 G and 3 G systems, it is cost prohibitive to transfer large amounts of file-based content, such as audio or graphics files, to the automobile via the cellular system. 
   What is required is a system for automatically and conveniently transforms digital content to the automobile where it can be stored and played back according to the user&#39;s preference. Additionally, the system should include a system for selecting content to be automatically delivered or refreshed at the automobile on a regular basis. The system should also allow users to access their music by the use of the same playlist structure in the home and in the automobile. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   An automotive storage and playback device and method for using the same are described. The automotive storage and playback device is capable of being detachably coupled to an automobile. The device includes a wireless transceiver to receive compressed digital content automatically from a computer system via a wireless local area network based on user defined preferences input into the computer system. The wireless transceiver is communicably coupled to the wireless local area network when the wireless transceiver is a predetermined distance from a wireless local area network access point. The device also includes a decoder and converter to decompress and convert the digital content. The decompressed and converted digital content is sent to be played on an output device in the automobile. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given below and from the accompanying drawings of various embodiments of the invention, which, however, should not be taken to limit the invention to the specific embodiments, but are for explanation and understanding only: 
       FIG. 1 . illustrates is schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a LAN-based automotive content delivery and playback system  10 ; 
       FIG. 2 . illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of a LAN-based automobile caching and playback sub-system as it is installed in an automobile; 
       FIG. 3 . illustrates a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a LAN-based automobile caching and playback sub-system; 
       FIG. 4 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a storage and datalink unit; 
       FIG. 5 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a storage and datalink unit with one side of the enclosure removed; 
       FIG. 6 . illustrates a section view of one embodiment of a snap latch engaged with enclosure; 
       FIG. 7 . illustrates a section view of one embodiment of a snap latch disengaged with enclosure; 
       FIG. 8 . illustrates an isometric view of one embodiment of a user interface control unit; 
       FIG. 9 . illustrates one embodiment of a LAN-based automobile content delivery system antenna sub-system; 
       FIG. 10 . illustrates a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a automobile storage and playback system connected to car stereo via the FM antenna; 
       FIG. 11 . illustrates one embodiment of a PC  18  desktop with a audio device playlist editor; 
       FIG. 12 . illustrates one embodiment of a desktop PC  18  with a content subject guide page; 
       FIG. 13 . illustrates one embodiment of a desktop PC  18  with a graphical user interface of a content selection web page; 
       FIG. 14 . illustrates one embodiment of a storage gateway system to automotive storage and playback system  10  synchronization flow chart; 
       FIG. 15 . illustrates one embodiment of a user interface module LCD sequence; 
       FIG. 16 . illustrates one embodiment of a hard disk drive with a heating element attached; 
       FIG. 17 . illustrates one embodiment of an integrated head unit; 
       FIG. 18 . illustrates one embodiment of an automobile storage and playback system  10  with a audio/visual media player; 
       FIG. 19 . illustrates one embodiment of a schematic of a wireless media server system located in automobile; 
       FIG. 20 . illustrates one embodiment of a schematic diagram of an Ethernet-based automobile server system; and 
       FIG. 21 . illustrates one embodiment of a automotive telematics system with both wireless LAN and wireless WAN communications capabilities. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   An automotive storage and playback device and method for using the same are described. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the present invention. 
   A set of definitions is provided below to clarify the present invention. 
   Definitions 
   The term “content” is used to refer to digital audio, video, images, or interactive multimedia. 
   A network is defined as two or more computer devices of any type, such as a personal computer (PC), network appliance, or PDA, connected together by a digital communication link. A device that has a communication link to the network is often referred to as a node. A local area network (LAN) is defined as a plurality of nodes connected by the network that are in physically close proximity. 
   The term gateway, used interchangeably with broadband gateway, is defined as an integral modem and router, and may include hub functionality. The modem (modulator/demodulator) function is used to change voltage fluctuations on an input carrier line (a DSL line input or a cable TV input) into digital data Routers are devices that connect one distinct network to another by passing only certain IP addresses that are targeted for specific networks. Hubs allow one network signal input to be split and thus sent to many devices. 
   A storage gateway or storage gateway system combines mass storage capability with a gateway. For example, a Personal Computer (PC) connected to a broadband cable modem gateway is considered a storage gateway system A digital cable set-top box with DOCSIS cable modem and a hard disk drive is also considered to be a storage gateway system. 
   A CODEC, an acronym for “compression/decompression”, is a software algorithm function implemented in software or software and hardware for compressing and decompressing audio, graphic, or moving picture data. For example, MP3 is a well-known CODEC format and is a naming convention for MPEG layer  3 , which is the digital audio layer in an MPEG encoded video data file. 
   Subscription is defined to mean a content service whereby new content is periodically provided based on a content selection parameter, such as a particular artist, editorialist, or genre. Subscription services may be paid for by the user or can be ad-supported (free to the user). An example of a subscription service is a audio sports news file that is downloaded to a user&#39;s PC every day. 
   Overview 
   The basic function of the present invention is to provide a system for delivering digital file-based content to an automobile for playback by a user, and involves wireless communication and information (content) transfer between the Internet and home PC  18 , and the local area network (LAN)-based automotive storage and playback system  10 . The content may be transferred automatically and periodically, and/or under the direct control of the user. 
   The system includes a broadband connection connected to a PC  18  with a wireless LAN access point  30 , located in a residence or at a specific fixed site. There is a LAN-based automotive storage and playback system  10  located in the automobile that includes a computer system with a hard disk drive and a wireless LAN transceiver. Anytime the automobile is within range of the wireless LAN access point  30 , the computer system in the automobile becomes a node on the wireless LAN, and content maybe transferred from the Internet and home PC  18 . The content may be stored in the hard disk drive in the automobile. In terms of its placement into an automobile, in one embodiment, the automobile storage and playback system  10  is schematically similar to systems incorporating multi-CD changers that are typically located in the trunk. 
   One embodiment of the present invention will be described first in terms of the hardware components of the system, then the software components. Finally, the operation of the system will be described. Alternative embodiments will also be described. 
   Hardware Description 
   Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a schematic of the LAN-based automotive content delivery system is shown. In one embodiment, a PC  18  located in the home is connected to the Internet via a broadband connection  38  using a DOCSIS cable modem  22 , and comprises a storage gateway system PC  18  includes a hard disk drive  26  and a wireless LAN access point  30 , which is connected to PC  18  via 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 socket-based communication protocols, specifically the TCP/IP standard. 
   Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a schematic of the automotive storage and playback system  10  is shown super-imposed on an automobile  42 . In  FIG. 2 , a dashed line denotes electrical lines that are connectorized at dock  126 . In one embodiment, the automobile storage and playback system  10  is integrated into an automobile  42  with an existing conventional car stereo  46 . Automobile storage and playback system  10  includes a storage and datalink unit  14 , and a user interface control module  50 .  FIG. 3  shows a block diagram of the components of the automotive storage and playback system  10 . Storage and datalink unit  14  includes a microprocessor  82 , flash memory  86 , dynamic random access memory (DRAM)  90 , a power conversion and battery charging sub-system  94 , a digital-to-analog converter (DAC)  98 , a PC card host controller  102 , a PC card connector  110 , a USB host controller  106  and a 10 gigabyte hard disk drive  112 , and a rechargeable internal battery  122 . A wireless LAN PC card  114  is included and located in the PC card connector  110  slot. The electronic components and sub-systems of the storage and datalink unit  14  are functionally connected via a printed circuit board  118 . 
   Storage and datalink unit  14 , shown in  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 5 , may be removably attached to automobile  42  by being placed in a dock  126  that is permanently installed in automobile  42 . The dock  126  includes a cavity for accepting storage and datalink unit  14 . Note that in  FIG. 5  that internal battery  122  has been removed so as not to obscure the other components. In one embodiment, storage and datalink unit  14  is mounted in the trunk. In other embodiments, storage and datalink unit  14  is mounted underneath a seat, or in the glove compartment. 
   In one embodiment, storage and datalink unit  14  may be locked onto dock  126  using two attachment latches  130  and  134  rotatably attached on either side of dock  126 .  FIGS. 6 and 7  show a detail view of how latches  130  and  134  function. Latch  130  and  134  includes a latch cam  138  that is a cam lobe positioned such that it contacts the dock  126  and tightens as latch  130  rotates toward storage and datalink unit  14 . Latch  130  slightly untightens as latch  130  moves over-center and the latch catch  140  is located in the latch slot  152  on the enclosure  150 . This overcenter action insures that latches  130  and  134  stay in the locked position. To remove storage and datalink unit  14  from dock  126 , the user rotates latches  130  and  134  away from storage and datalink unit  14 , and lifts storage and datalink unit  14  out of dock  126 . 
   The bottom cap  146  of storage and datalink unit  14  includes a data connector and a power connector that connect to correspondingly placed connectors on dock  126 . Dock  126  connectors functionally connect storage and datalink unit  14  to unswitched and switched car battery power  278  and  282 , connect analog audio signal  286  output to the car stereo  46  head unit, and connect storage and datalink unit  14  to user interface control module  50  in the passenger compartment via a serial connection  290 . A coaxial connector A  190  and connector B  194  is also included for connecting wireless LAN transceiver  114  to an antenna extension sub-system  178  that is also located in automobile  42 . Storage and datalink unit  14  enclosure  150 , top cap  142 , and bottom cap  146 , consist of injection-molded plastic. 
     FIG. 8  shows user interface control module  50  that includes a microprocessor, LCD with integral backlight  52 , and buttons for allowing the user to control the system, including the following buttons: power on/off  74 , play/pause  54 , stop  58 , forward track  62 , and backward track  66 . A four-way navigation toggle  70  is also provided, as well as a tag button  78 . The electronic components of user interface control module  50  are functionally connected via a printed circuit board. User interface control module  50  is housed in an injection-molded plastic enclosure.  FIG.4  shows that the storage and datalink unit  14  includes a handle  154  integral to the top cap  142  to use for carrying the storage and datalink unit  14 . 
     FIG. 5  shows that hard disk drive  112  is mounted in storage and datalink unit  14  enclosure  150  with a vibration dampening subsystem so that vibrations and impulse loads are not transferred from the automobile  42  motion to the platters and heads inside hard disk drive  112 . The vibration dampening subsystem includes of two elastomeric suspension caps  158 , one each attached to the top and bottom of hard disk drive  112 . The elastomeric suspension caps  158  have rectilinear concavities that fit over the ends if hard disk drive  112 . Additionally, four screws are placed through holes in the elastomeric suspension caps  158  that correspond with mounting screw holes on hard disk drive  112 , to further secure elastomeric suspension caps  158  to the hard disk drive  112 . Each elastomeric suspension cap  158  includes two suspension flexures  162  that are narrow sections of the elastomeric material that extend laterally away from hard disk drive  112 . These suspension flexures  162  elastically deform during shock loads. 
     FIG. 5  also shows that suspension flexures  162  have integral suspension mounts  166  that attach to suspension pins  170  integral to enclosure  150 . The geometry of elastomeric suspension caps  158  and flexures  162  are such that the storage and datalink unit  14  enclosure  150  can move relative to hard disk drive  112  in multiples axes of motion during impulse and vibration loads, to absorb the shock of automobile  42  motions. However, hard disk drive  112  cannot come into contact with any aspect of enclosure  150  or other components other than elastomeric suspension caps  158 . A flexible ribbon cable (not shown) electrically connects hard disk drive  112  to the computer sub-system. Elastomeric suspension caps  158  are homogeneous parts molded out of Dynaflex thermoplastic elastomer, provided by GLS Corporation, of Illinois. 
   In on embodiment, resistance temperature device (RTD) temperature sensor  174 , shown in  FIG. 5  is conductively attached to hard disk drive  112  with conductive epoxy, and is electrically connected to microprocessor  82 . 
   In one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 9 , an antenna extension sub-system  178  is used to insure that a dipole antenna  182  is positioned to receive a clear signal from wireless LAN access point  30 . Dipole antenna  182  at the end of a shielded coaxial wire  186  is positioned on the top surface of the rear seat deck in automobile  42 . In another embodiment, antenna  182  is mounted behind a plastic bumper cover. A length of shielded coaxial cable  186  extends into the trunk where it is terminated with one side of a coaxial connector A  190  at dock  126 . A printed circuit board antenna  198  is fixed in storage and datalink unit  14  enclosure  150  in close proximity to wireless LAN PC card transceiver  114  antenna  116 . A shielded coaxial cable  187  is connected to printed circuit board antenna  198  and terminates with a coaxial connector B  194  that mates to coaxial connector A  190  when storage and datalink unit  14  is placed into dock  126 . 
   In one embodiment, the output of DAC  98  is plugged directly into line level inputs in the existing car stereo  46  system head unit. DAC  98  converts decompressed digital audio to an analog signal at line levels. In this case the existing car stereo  46  system must provide the ability to switch to an auxiliary source. In another embodiment, shown schematically in  FIG. 10 , the analog audio signal  286  that is output from storage and datalink unit  14  is input into the automobile audio system by being plugged into an FM antenna tap  206 . The analog output from DAC is modulated by an FM modulator  202 . To use this set-up, the user must tune the existing car stereo to an FM frequency at the low end of the FM band, such as 87.5, and the audio content is played on the existing car stereo  46  system This type of connection into existing car stereos  46  is commonly found in after-market CD changers. 
   Software Description—System Control Application 
   Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a system control application  210  runs on PC  18  and is comprised of two sub-applications, the core module  214  and the graphical user interface (GUI) module  218 . Core module  214  manages the basic communication between Internet and PC  18 , and PC  18  and between automotive storage and playback system  10 . In one embodiment, core module  214  is implemented as a multi-threaded Java application running on a PC  18 . A Windows version of a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) resides and runs on PC  18  and interprets core module  214  instructions for the windows operating system. 
   Core module  214  includes the portion of the system control application  210  that acts on content and data  234  from Internet  222  and also processes communications with automotive storage and playback system  10 , providing, but not limited to, the following functions:
         1. Communication links:
           a. Accessing content on Internet at a prescribed location as determined by user inputs into the GUI content editors such as web-based content selection guide  246 ,   b. Communicating with GUI module  218 , and   c. Accessing and communicating with automotive storage and playback system  10 ;   
           2. Managing the caching (local storage) of content from Internet or otherwise digital content files  234 ;   3. Reading from and writing to content database  226 .   4. Transfer of content files  234  from Internet  222  to LAN-based automotive system:
           a. Managing and routing transfers of digital content files  234  from Internet  222  to automotive storage and playback system  10 , and   b. Managing and routing transfers of cached digital content files  234  on PC  18  to automotive storage and playback system  10 ;   
           5. Scheduling—time-based automation of the accessing, caching, and transfer of content  234  from Internet  222  at times prescribed by the user or at times derived by direction given by rules through the GUI content editors such as web-based content selection guide  246 . The scheduling function accesses time and date inputs associated with actions stored in content database  226  by GUI module  218 . The scheduling function periodically compares these time and date entries with the current state of PC  18  internal timer. When there is a match, the action is taken;   6. Network Address Translation (NAT) and routing—digital file  234  transfers that occur directly from the Internet  222  to automotive storage and playback system  10  require a real time connection to Internet  222 .   7. Automotive storage and playback system  10  Application/Software Delivery—Automotive storage and playback system  10  control firmware  270  updates can be stored at PC  18  and delivered to automotive storage and playback system  10  on an as-needed basis. For example, a new or updated CODEC  274  (sent as a BLOB—binary large object) can be delivered to automotive storage and playback system  10  via wireless LAN  34  and installed into memory. Other types of applications can be delivered to automotive storage and playback system  10 .   8. Transcoding—Certain types of content  234  will be received at PC  18 , decoded, re-encoded using a different CODEC at PC  18 , and then transferred to automotive storage and playback system  10 ;   9. Auto-discovery—Automotive storage and playback system  10  will automatically authenticate on wireless LAN  34  when in range. Core module  214  listens for periodic broadcasts from automobile storage and playback system  10 .   10. Message Transactions—text or other content or data  234  from the Internet  222  can be transferred to automotive storage and playback system  10  and presented on LCD  52 ;   11. Tag servicing—Tagging is described in greater detail later in this document. Tag servicing includes a function where core module  214  periodically accesses a specific location on Internet  222  to acquire and store an accurate time and date;   12. Synchronization—Data, such as user data and related information, such as an accurate time and date, must be synchronized across the three platforms (web, automotive storage and playback system  10 , and PC  18 ). Core module  214  time and date data is thus synchronized with an external (absolute) standard.       

   GUI module  218  is implemented as a Win 32  application and resides and runs on PC  18 . GUI module  218  is used by end users to organize and manage digital content  234  and content preferences. User content selections made using GUI module  218  are stored in a local content database  226  by core module  214 . Based on user inputs into GUI module  218 , core module  214  modifies content database  226  using methods called over HTTP and expressed with XML grammar. Two examples of GUI module  218  functions are provided below to show how system control application  210  functions to deliver content to automotive storage and playback system  10 . An audio playlist editor  238  is described that allows users to organize their local audio content  234 ; and a web-based content selection guide  246  is described that allow users to select digital subscription content services. 
   GUI module  218  includes segments of the software application that run the GUI, including, but not limited to, the following functions:
         1. Displaying GUI elements on a computer display for view by the end user;   2. Acknowledging user responses made via mouse and keyboard, or other pointing and interaction devices;   3. Allowing for manipulation of the GUI elements such as:
           a. drag and drop of content objects,   b. GUI button activations,   c. text entry, and   d. pull down menu and menu selections;   e. initiation and operation of dialog boxes   
           4. Communication between GUI module  218  and core module  214 . The selections and control manipulations made by the end user are communicated to core module  214  where they can be acted upon.       

   System control application  210  is designed to function with a number of instances of core module  214 , content database, and GUI module  218  running concurrently on multiple PC  18 s and or storage gateways, all connected by the same LAN. It is anticipated that users will own and operate multiple PCs  18  in a single home for example, with different content cached on each PC  18 . In another embodiment, a digital set-top box with a DOCSIS cable modem  22  and a wireless LAN transceiver could include an instance of core module  214  and content database  226  in addition to the instance on PC  18 . In one embodiment, the focus will be on a singular GUI module  218  located and executed on a PC  18 . 
   Software Description—Audio Playlist Editor 
     FIG. 11  shows the audio playlist editor  238  as it appears to the user on PC desktop  236 , and shows that there are three levels of organization: channels  250 , playlists  254 , and tracks  258 . Channels  250  are lists of playlists  254 , and playlists  254  are lists of tracks  258 . A track  258  (audio file name) shown in audio playlist editor  238  is a GUI element that signifies a file and a path designation on hard disk drive  26  on PC  18 , and a listing in content database  226 . Using the audio playlist editor  238 , users can create, delete, and rearrange channels  250  and playlists  254 , can rearrange track  258  orders, and can add tracks  258  to playlists  254  by navigating to the location of the local digital audio files  234  using a standard Windows dialog box. Tracks  258  can also be added to playlists  254  by dragging and dropping digital audio file  234  icons from windows onto the track field of the audio playlist editor  238 . 
   The user may obtain digital audio files  234  that are stored on PC  18  hard disk drive  26 , such as MP3 files, in a variety of ways, and organize these files, otherwise known as tracks  258 , into channels  250  and playlists  254  using an audio playlist editor  238  aspect of GUI module  218 , as described above and shown in  FIG. 8 . Audio device playlist editor also includes the ability to select specific channels  250  or playlists  254  to be replicated on automobile storage and playback system  10 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , this function is accessed by right-clicking on a channel  250  or playlist  254  name and selecting “sync with auto”. A right-click pull down menu  262  is shown in  FIG. 11 . For example, a user can make a channel  250  entitled “MyCar” and include several playlists  254  each including several songs, and then make the “sync with Auto” selection. Subsequently, only the “MyCar” channel  250  and all child playlists  254  and tracks  258  win be wirelessly synchronized into automobile storage and playback system  10 . The right-click menu on each channel  250  and playlist  254  also includes a “sync now” selection, which initiates the synchronization and subsequent file transfer process immediately (assuming that automobile  42  is within range of wireless LAN  34 ). 
   Additionally, a selection is included under the “options” menu to automatically synchronize all channels  250  and playlists  254  with locally cached content  234 . If selection to synchronize all channels  250  is not selected in the “options” menu, then no files are transferred to automobile storage and playback system  10 . 
   A user may also make selections for receiving periodic content delivered to automotive storage and playback system  10  using a web-based content selection guide  246  aspect of GUI module  218 , as described above and shown in  FIG. 10 . Selections made using the web-based content guide  246  for periodic content services require system control application  210  to periodically access Internet  222  servers where content is located and download and cache content locally on PC  18  hard disk drive  26 . These content selections made by user using aspects of GUI module  218  are recorded in content database  226  by core module  214 . 
   Software Description—Web-based Content Guide 
   In one embodiment, the web-based content selection guide  246  simplifies and facilitate the discovery and selection of subscription content services on the Internet  222  for periodic distribution into automobile storage and playback system  10 . Referring now to  FIG. 12 , web-based content subject guide  242  is html-formatted web pages accessed through a mini-browser, and shows a range of content subjects  248 . Selecting “NPR” on web-based content subject guide  242  results in the content selection web page  246  shown in  FIG. 14 . A content selection  264  with a check box  268  is shown. Selections made using this interface result in the creation of pointers to locations of digital audio files  234  on Internet  222  servers. These files are periodically accessed and downloaded to PC  18  hard disk drive  26  for subsequent transfer to automobile storage and playback system  10 . The periodicity at which subscription content files  234  are downloaded are based on rules provided by each content provider. For example, some content files  234  are refreshed on the content provider&#39;s Internet  222  server on a daily basis at 1:00 am. In this case, one rule for accessing the server and downloading the content file  234  is that it must happen after 1:00 am. The pointers to Internet  222  content files  234  as well as the rules governing the downloading of files  234  are stored in content database  226 . 
   Web-based content guide capability may include, but is not limited to the following functionality:
         1. Content type—As per  FIG. 12 , an interface is provided that begins with general content subject  248  links, and as the user makes selections, the content subjects  248  become more specific and culminate in the presentation to the user of content selections  264 .   2. Content Selection  264 —As per  FIG. 13 , a user may subscribe to a daily version of a radio show. When box  268  is checked, a pointer and rules for downloading the digital audio file  234  are transferred from an Internet  222  server to content database  226  (by core module  214 ). Subsequently, the latest version of the radio show digital audio file  234  is automatically transferred from a content provider&#39;s Internet  222  server to PC  18 , and from PC  18  to automotive storage and playback system  10 , by core module  214  according to the download rules.   3. A system to retain user preference information for the purpose of customizing the web-based content guides according to the users preferences.       

   Software Description—Control Firmware  270   
   Storage and datalink unit  14  includes an operating system that is Linux in one embodiment. Referring again to  FIG. 1 , control firmware  270  is present on storage and datalink unit  14 . A content database is also stored on storage and datalink unit  14 . Some functions of control firmware  270  include, but are not limited to the following:
         1. Operate wireless LAN  34  broadcast duty-cycle to auto-discover automobile storage and playback system  10 .   2. Communicate with PC  18  via wireless LAN  34 —includes management of security code that is used to encrypt wireless communications on wireless LAN  34 .   3. Synchronize (transfer or delete) content as per changes in content database  226  on PC  18 —When communication with PC  18  occurs, control firmware  270  compares the contents of content database  226  on PC  18  with content database  230  on automotive storage and playback system  10 . This action is described in greater detail below.   4. Monitor and respond to control inputs from user interface control module  50 .   5. Decode digital audio files  234  and convert to analog signal  286  as per input from controls—CODECs  274  stored in memory and executed by operating system decode digital audio files  234 . Control firmware  270  includes a large buffering function where hard disk drive  112  can read ahead and store significant amounts of digital audio file  234  that is currently being decoded, in DRAM, so that hard disk drive  112  head can park. By buffering large amounts of digital audio file  234  in this way, hard disk drive  112  head can maintain a shorter operating duty cycle when the head is in its read position over a platter. The less time the head is located over a platter, the less likely a head crash will occur due to an impulse load from the motion of automobile  42 .   6. Hard disk drive  112  temperature monitoring—The temperature sensor on hard disk drive  112  is continually monitored with a duty cycle of 1–2 minutes. If the temperature closely approaches the specified operating temperature limits of hard disk drive  112  (typically between 5 and 55 degrees Celsius), hard disk drive  112 , control firmware will disable hard disk drive  112  (the platters will not be allowed to spin and the head will be parked).       

   Automobile Storage and Playback System Operation and System Synchronization 
   When automobile  42  is running, wireless LAN transceiver  114  is disabled, automobile storage and playback system  10  may be operated using automobile battery power, and automobile  42  power system is recharging storage and datalink unit&#39;s  14  internal battery  122 . When automobile  42  is turned off, automotive storage and playback system  10  may be used to play music (discussed below) using internal battery  122  as the power source. When automobile  42  is turned off, computer sub-system in storage and datalink unit  14  is operational, wireless LAN transceiver  114  is enabled and, under control of control firmware  270 , broadcasts a message every 10 minutes. This activity is powered by the automotive storage and playback system  10 &#39;s internal battery  122 . By using internal battery  122 , the automobile&#39;s  42  main battery is never drawn down by automotive storage and playback system  10  activity. This message broadcast by storage and datalink unit  14  is encoded using the user&#39;s security code, thus the automotive storage and playback system  10  will only receive a response when it is in the presence of the user&#39;s wireless LAN  34  radio-frequency field. 
   Once wireless LAN-based communication is established between automotive storage and playback system  10  and gateway storage system, core module  214  and control firmware  270  engage such that the content database  226  on PC  18  and content database  230  in automotive storage and playback system  10  hard disk drive  112  are compared and actions are taken.  FIG. 14  is a flowchart showing the process for comparing the content databases  226  and  230  and for synchronizing content according to new user selections. 
   User Control and Content Playback 
   Referring to  FIG. 2 , user interface control module  50  is connected to storage and datalink unit  14  via a cable, and is located in passenger compartment within reach of driver or passenger. User interface module  50  may be mounted on the dashboard, or may be placed so that the user can hold user interface module  50 . User interface module  50  includes LCD  52  that enables the display of three levels of the interface, channels  250 , playlists  254 , and tracks  258 . User interface module  50  also includes a center four-way joystick control  70 , that allows the user to navigate between levels, and laterally within levels. 
     FIG. 15  shows a sequence of LCD  52  screens that describes how the interface functions. For example, when 4-way joystick  70  is pushed up, highlight on LCD  52  moves up one level. Likewise when 4-way joystick  70  is moved to the right, highlight on LCD  52  moves to the next entry on that level. The functions of the other control buttons, such as previous track  66  and stop  58  are well known in the media player field:
     Screen  1 —the initial state of the user interface control module  50  is shown. The top 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  shows the filled square symbol, which is the conventional symbol for a playback system  10  that is in “stop” mode, i.e., nothing is playing. The channel  250  level is highlighted by being graphically reversed (text is white with black background).   Screen  2 —This screen shows the result of activating the right navigation on joystick  70 . The channel level label changes to “channel  2 ”. The labels at the playlist  254  level and the tracks  258  level also update to reflect the new items in “channel  2 ”.   Screen  3 —This screen shows the result of activating down navigation on joystick  70 . The highlight moves from the channel  250  level to the playlist  254  level.   Screen  4 —This screen shows the result of next activating right navigation on joystick. The playlist  254  level changes to “playlist 2  ”, the next playlist  254  organized under “channel  2 ”. The track  258  level text also updates to reflect the actual first track  258  included in “track  1 ” under “playlist  2 ”.   Screen  5 —This screen shows the result of next activating the play/pause button  54  on user interface control module  50 . “Track  1 ” begins to play.   Screen  6 —This screen shows the result of next activating the next track button  62  twice on interface control module  50 . “Track  3  ” begins to play. The player status icon  80  changes from a black square to a right-pointing triangle.   Screen  7 —This screen shows the result of next activating the play/pause button  54  while a track  258  is playing. The track  258  stops playing and the player status icon  80  is the “pause” icon.   Screen  8 —This screen shot shows the result of a few different actions. First, the play/pause button  54  was activated, thus “Track  3 ” begins to play where it left off when the play/pause button  54  was activated. Next, right navigation on joystick  70  is activated once. The track  258  line advances to show the next track  258 , or “Track  4 ” in “Playlist  2 ”. “Track  3 ” continues to play. This feature allows the user to browse through the channel  250 /playlist  254 /track  258  list structure while continuing to listen to a currently playing track  258 .   Screen  9 —This screen shows the result if no other buttons are activated for six seconds. The display reverts back to display the channel  250 , playlist  254 , and track  258 , that is currently being played.   
   Audio content is played through the car&#39;s existing stereo speakers and is modified (treble, base, loudness, etc.) using the existing car stereo system&#39;s controls. 
   Removal of Storage and Datalink Unit  14   
   Storage and datalink unit  14  may be removed by unlatching the left and right latches  130  and  134 . There are several reasons for removing storage and datalink unit  14 : for alternate synchronization methods, to insure operation when automobile  42  is subject to temperature extremes, and for use as a mobile media player. 
   There are two alternate synchronization methods. It should be noted that storage and datalink unit  14  continues to periodically broadcast (searching for a server) even when it is removed from automobile  42 . For scenarios where a user cannot place their automobile  42  within range of the home wireless LAN  34  (such as if a user lives in an apartment building), storage and datalink unit  14  can be removed and hand carried within range of home wireless LAN  34 , and wireless communication and synchronization occurs as described above. 
   Synchronization can also occur through a wired USB connection directly to PC  18 . System control application  210  on the user&#39;s PC  18  automatically recognizes storage and datalink unit  14 , and performs the appropriate synchronization, similar to that which is described for in the wireless LAN  34  scenario. 
   In climates where ambient temperatures that exceed the operating temperature range of hard disk drive  112 , users can remove storage and datalink unit  14  and store it in a heated or air-conditioned environment while they are not operating automobile  42 . Storage and datalink unit  14  is then installed when user operates automobile  42 . 
   Tagging 
   Tag button  78  included on user interface module  50  in  FIG. 8  is used to produce a digital record of audio content  234  that is played on the automobile storage and playback system  10  that is of particular interest to the user. When the user would like to receive more information about an audio content item  234  he or she is listening to, the user pushes tag button  78 . A software process is triggered whereby a record of the audio content being played, including information such as song (file) title and ID 3  data that is embedded in content file  234 , is stored in a tag database  266  in memory in the storage and datalink unit  14 . The time and date of tag button  78  activation is also stored in tag database  266 . 
   When automobile  42  is in range of the local wireless LAN  34 , the record of tagged items is automatically transferred to tag database  294  associated with system control application  210  on home PC  18  storage gateway system, from which it is automatically transferred to the user&#39;s tag aggregation page at a website associated with the user. Software applications on the website process the tag record information and provide the user with more enhanced information, or ancilliary content, that is associated with the tagged content. The user can then use any HTML-based browser, such Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator, commonly found on home PCs  18 , to browse the tag aggregation web page and associated ancilliary content. Ancilliary content is for example information about a particular song artist, album art, song lyrics, concert dates, options to purchase subsequent content, or information about purchasing and/or downloading a particular digital audio file  234 . 
   The tag feature works with both downloaded audio content and broadcast radio content. For downloaded content, the song title and other meta-data will be embedded in the digital audio file  234  and thus the song title and other information can be accessed directly by the control firmware  270 . Radio content tagging involves recording the radio tuner frequency, time, and date information. When this data is transferred to a specific tag-processing software application on a server on Internet  222 , the data can be used to retrieve information about that particular song through radio station playlist information services that publish play lists for broadcast content. 
   Alternative Embodiment—Operation with Add-on Control Unit 
   In this embodiment, storage and datalink unit  14  is used as a mobile digital audio player. Interface control module  50  receives power from storage and datalink unit  14 , and storage and datalink unit  14  is able to operate fully when operated outside of automobile. In one embodiment, a mobile interface control unit is able to plug into storage and datalink unit  14 . In this embodiment, storage and datalink unit  14  also includes a headphone output jack. The mobile interface control unit is used to power on the storage and datalink unit  14 , and the interface controls are used as described above. When the play button is activated, the specified audio file  234  is decoded an audio signal is produced for use with headphones. In a different embodiment, the interface control module  50  includes a connector several inches down the cable  290  that is installed permanently in automobile  42 , and is able to be unplugged from the installed cable  290  and plugged into a corresponding connector in storage and datalink unit  14 . Thus the same interface control module  50  can be used in the automobile and also as a mobile interface control module  50 . 
   Alternative Embodiment—Integral Hard Disk Drive Heating System 
   To provide for hard disk drive  112  operation during a cold temperature extreme, one embodiment of automotive storage and playback system  10  includes a hard disk drive  112  heating subsystem. Hard disk drive  112  heating subsystem consists of a copper clad Kapton heating element  298  fixed in contact with hard disk drive  112  housing, as shown in  FIG. 16 . A thin layer of thermally conductive adhesive is used to attach Kapton heating element  298  to hard disk drive  112 . Kapton heating elements  298  are a well-known technology for heating items when space is a constraint. Current is send through large copper traces adhered to the Kapton substrate. The current subsequently produces heat, which is conducted to hard disk drive  112  housing. 
   The temperature monitoring sub-system, which is an aspect of control firmware  270 , controls the heating of hard disk drive  112  so that the operating temperature limit is not exceeded. 
   Alternative Embodiment—Integrated Head Unit 
   In an alternative embodiment, the control interface is integrated into a head unit  302 , shown in  FIG. 17 , mounted in the dashboard similarly to existing car stereo  46  head unit devices. Referring now to  FIG. 18 , the head unit  302  is connected to the storage and datalink unit  14  via the analog audio  286  cable and a serial communication standard RS-232 data cable  290 , which sends and receives control messages. Head unit  302  provides all of the functions of existing automobile stereo head units, but with the additional capability of providing the interface to the automobile storage and playback system  10 , as described above. The head unit  302  is also connected to the car&#39;s AM/FM antenna  48  via an antenna cable. The head unit  302  includes a stereo sound processor, audio mixer, pre-amplifier, amplifier, AM/FM (radio) tuner, and a user interface to control the content and other features. The radio tuner is included in the device so that the automobile storage and playback system  10  can play conventional broadcast radio audio. The user switches between content sources by activating the source button. The LCD will also show metadata that may be embedded in the music files themselves. A tag button  78  is included. 
   Alternative Embodiments 
   The storage gateway system&#39;s connection to the Internet can be any Internet connection means such as conventional phone line modem dial-up, a DSL connection, or a fixed wireless broadband connection, such as that provided by Sprint. 
   The mass storage memory in the automobile storage and playback system  10  can include flash memory, which can be designed as all non-removable, partially removable, or totally removable. Non-removable flash memory is comprised of flash memory chips that are permanently soldered to printed circuit boards located internal to the storage and datalink unit  14  housing. Removable flash memory is used in the form of removable memory cards, such as Compact Flash memory cards, a well known standard for removable flash memory. 
   In an alternative embodiment, the head unit further includes a CD drive or audiocassette drive so that the automobile storage and playback system  10  can include certain common car stereo functionality. Through the inclusion of a CD drive or audiocassette drive, a user would be able to both listen to downloaded music content from his/her PC  18 , and listen to music content that is played off a CD or tape cassette. 
   In an alternative embodiment, a system is created that can support transfer and presentation of data other than music file data Content, such as text and image files, video files, or interactive multimedia files, can be downloaded to the automobile storage and playback system  10  where they are displayed on a high-resolution graphics LCD. Through this application the user can send information, such as driving directions, maps, or movies, to the automobile storage and playback system  10  and thus has access to that information while he/she is in the car. 
   In the case of movies, such as MPEG files, car passengers can watch video entertainment while traveling. Thus the automobile storage and playback system  10  would include one or more larger video display units, as well as alternative audio output interfaces. For example, the driver can listen to broadcast radio while passengers in the back seat watch an MPEG movie, listening to the movie audio using stereo headphones. 
   In a further embodiment the automobile storage and playback system  10  can be used as a gateway for transferring data to other computing devices or electronic appliances located in the car. A data link, in the form of electrical wires or cables is used to connect the automobile storage and playback system  10  to other devices in the car. Through this application, users can transfer a host of information easily between their vehicle and home computer. Examples of this application include: transferring records of mileage, speed, and fuel consumption back to a home PC  18 ; uploading new software or code into a car&#39;s central computing controller to improve performance or change settings (these changes could be released by automobile manufacturers over the Internet); downloading map databases into the automobile storage and playback system  10  for navigational use. For this embodiment the communication link that is local to the automobile is extended to the automobile&#39;s on-board control computer. An RS-232 port on the storage and datalink unit  14  is connected to a corresponding RS-232 port on the on-board computer. New firmware is downloaded that is of a compatible format for the on-board controller. Reprogramming of automobile operational parameters is performed now. Dinan Engineering provides engine controller firmware upgrades for BMW automobiles that provides improved performance and efficiency. Furthermore, BMWs have certain features that are reprogrammable at a BMW dealership. For example, BMWs can be programmed to automatically lock all doors a few seconds after the automobile is in motion after occupants have entered the car. This feature can be activated or de-activated, depending on the preference of the user with the use of a dedicated automobile feature programming application that runs on the home PC  18 . 
   In a further embodiment, the automobile storage and playback system  10  can be used to transfer audio voice files from the home PC  18  to the car and from the car to the home PC  18 . In this embodiment, the automobile storage and playback system  10  head unit further includes a microphone that is used to capture voice recordings that are then stored in memory. Examples of this application include: recording messages for oneself that can later be transferred to and stored on a home PC  18 ; recoding messages for oneself at the home PC  18  (such as street directions) and then storing them on the automobile storage and playback system  10  for use when driving. A microphone mounted near the driver seat is wired to an A/D converter and a DSP subsystem included in the storage and datalink unit  14 . An aspect of control firmware on the storage and datalink unit  14  allows the user to trigger a recording function and the user&#39;s voice is encoded by the data and storage link unit and stored until the automobile is in range of the home wireless LAN  34 , when it is transferred to the home PC  18  automatically. 
   In another embodiment, the storage and datalink unit  14  is designed such that the battery and wireless LAN transceiver are integrated into the dock  126 , and the processing components (including the USB connector) of the storage and datalink unit  14  are internal to the removable part of the storage and datalink unit  14 . The wireless LAN transceiver  114  and battery  122  remain in the car so that the weight of the removable part of the storage and datalink unit  14  is minimized. The user carries the device to a home dock, identical in form to the automobile dock  126 , which is connected via USB to the PC  18  or storage gateway system. The home dock also provides power to the storage and datalink unit  14 . When the storage and datalink unit  14  is in the home dock, synchronization takes place. 
   A further related embodiment includes a removable storage and datalink unit  14  where local battery  122  remains in the trunk (integral to the dock  126 ) but the wireless LAN transceiver  114  is included in the storage and datalink unit  14 . A home dock that is powered with 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 transceiver  114  in the removable storage and datalink unit  14 . This home dock can be located anywhere within range of the home wireless LAN  34 , for example, near the entrance to the home. The removable storage and datalink unit  14  is placed into the home dock, the storage and datalink unit  14  receives power and immediately connects to the home LAN  34 , and replication or synchronization commences. 
     FIG. 18  shows an aftermarket automobile storage and playback system  10  that is a media player with an audio/video display unit  306  that connects to the storage and datalink unit  14  via an RS-232 data cable  290  and an analog audio/video cable  310 , and is used in the passenger compartment to control and view content  234  that is stored on the hard disk drive  112 . 
   In another embodiment, shown in  FIG. 19 , data is transferred from the storage and datalink unit  14  to a wireless media player unit  318  wirelessly. The storage and datalink unit  14  acts as a storage gateway and a server to the wireless head units  318 . System control application operates on storage and datalink unit  14 . Each media player unit  318  contains a wireless LAN transceiver connected to an antenna, which allows signals to be received from the storage and datalink unit&#39;s  14  wireless transceiver. The storage and datalink unit  14  contains data wirelessly transferred from the home PC  18  and Internet and stored in the hard disk drive  112 , and the head units  318  can access that data from the storage and datalink unit  14  wirelessly. Thus, an MP3 song or other audio stored in the storage and datalink unit  14  hard disk drive  112  can be sent wirelessly to the car stereo head unit for immediate playback, just as a movie or other multimedia can be sent wirelessly to the wireless media player head unit  318 . 
   In another embodiment, shown in  FIG. 20 , the storage and datalink unit  14  is connected to the media player head units  322  via a 100 Mbps Ethernet LAN  326  system. The 100 Mbps LAN  326  system can handle multiple audio or video streams from the storage and datalink unit  14  to various head units  322 , as well as the control messages. 
   In another embodiment, data is transferred from the storage and datalink unit  14  to a PDA wirelessly. The storage and datalink unit  14  acts as a storage gateway and server for the PDA. The PDA has a wireless LAN transceiver, which allows signals to be received from the storage and datalink unit  14 &#39;s wireless transceiver. The storage and datalink unit  14  contains data wirelessly transferred from the home PC  18  and stored in the hard disk drive  112 , and that data can be accessed wirelessly by the PDA, for use anywhere in the car or within range of the storage and datalink unit  14 . This data could include such content as daily schedules, driving directions and maps, digital movies if the PDA has video decoding and playback capabilities, as well as single or multi-player games. 
     FIG. 21  shows a block diagram of an automobile with both a wireless LAN transceiver  114  and a wireless WAN transceiver. The user can request and download content regardless of where the automobile is located. However, since WAN bandwidth is more expensive and slower, the WAN content downloads would be limited to narrowband information that is time sensitive, such as traffic updates and messages. The WAN channel can also upload tag messages based on user tag button activations. The tag messages are routed to the corresponding tag processing server. 
   In this embodiment, the WAN (cellular) chipset is located in the storage and datalink unit  14 . A separate antenna is used and also connected to the WAN radio input. The operating system on the storage and datalink unit  14  includes software that monitors and controls the WAN subsystem, receiving and recording content, and sending content (messages) or connecting to the cellular system for real-time voice transmission. 
   An automotive storage and playback device and a method for using the same have been described. Although the present invention is described herein with reference to specific embodiments, many modifications and variations therein will readily occur to those with ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are included within the intended scope of the present invention as defined by the following claims.

Technology Category: 5