Methods and systems for adjusting vehicle noise for human-in-the-loop cruise control

Abstract

The invention provides methods and systems for adjusting vehicle noise for human-in-the-loop cruise control. Methods and systems are provided for adjusting vehicle noises to notify the vehicle operator of speed changes in human-in-the-loop cruise control and semi-autonomous vehicle operation. In one example, a method for drive unit of a vehicle may include responsive to a vehicle speed meeting a predefined condition relative to a threshold vehicle speed, adjusting one or more drive unit actuators to modulate engine noise while maintaining desired wheel torque within a threshold.

Description

technical field [0001] The present description relates generally to methods and systems for vehicles, and more particularly to methods and systems for adjusting vehicle noise to notify a vehicle operator of speed changes during human-in-the-loop cruise control and semi-autonomous operation. Background technique [0002] Cruise control systems are often provided in motor vehicles to allow the operator to set an upper limit for the vehicle's speed, thereby allowing the operator to avoid exceeding jurisdictional-set road speed limits if desired. However, during actual vehicle operation, situations may arise that require the operator to adjust speed to avoid accidents or otherwise maintain vehicle safety and traffic flow. Accordingly, some vehicle operators prefer to use the accelerator pedal and vehicle brakes to maintain control of vehicle speed rather than relying on cruise control, thereby negating the benefits of cruise control. [0003] Various methods have been proposed ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

While intrusive audio or visual signals such as those described above may be beneficial during hazardous or emergency situations as described in U.S. Patent No. 6,690,291, during more typical vehicle operation the operator may be distracted by beeping noises or flashing lights force

Additionally, some driving situations may indicate prolonged excursions at speeds above the preset speed and / or may include maneuvers at speeds slightly above the preset speed

Continuous beeping noises or flashing lights in such situations may annoy the operator of the vehicle, causing such warning systems to be disabled, thereby minimizing their usefulness

Also, the above approach provides no warning at speeds slightly below the preset speed, so the problem is that the driver may want subtle, non-distracting notifications when approaching the preset speed, which also gives the driver An indication of the amount of speed away from the threshold and the rate at which it is approaching the threshold

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