Virtual CD changer functionality simplifies in car music selection

A human machine interface (HMI) that simulates a traditional CD changer interface to simplify music selection is being developed by Alpine Electronics. The functionality makes it easier to sort music files into virtual CDs with corresponding buttons. Buttons on the head unit, numbered one to six correspond to “virtual CDs” that have been downloaded. With no six disc mechanism, the unit is 50 percent lighter than a standard in dash changer.

“Trying to sort through hundreds of files whilst driving can be dangerous,” says Keith Price, OEM business manager at Alpine Electronics. “The interface uses the traditional six or ten CD buttons to select individual play lists or CD albums. This is more intuitive and makes it simpler to access play lists.”

Loading tracks is easy too; users insert a CD and attribute it to a location. The music is downloaded at high quality, with no compression and assigned to a numbered button. The user can then find a playlist or album simply through one button press. Switching between “virtual” CDs is much quicker than real ones; testing has shown a reduction from 11 seconds to just one.

Using only a single CD mechanism, the unit is over 400g lighter than a standard in dash CD changer. This is expected to offer a cost advantage to OEMs too.

The system is currently being finalised but Alpine believes it could be on a production car with 12 months.