Method of providing virtual sound in an electric vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of providing a virtual sound in an electric vehicle, including: collecting vehicle driving information for outputting a virtual sound; determining a characteristic of the virtual sound based on the collected vehicle driving information; generating a virtual effect signal for outputting the virtual sound based on the determined characteristic; generating a sound signal including the characteristic based on the virtual effect signal; correcting the generated sound signal according to setting information based on a preset vehicle level and a sound correction algorithm to obtain a final sound signal corresponding to the selected vehicle level; and outputting the virtual sound corresponding to the selected vehicle level according to the final sound signal.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for providing virtual sound in an electric vehicle, and more particularly to such a method for providing virtual sound that is capable of generating and reproducing virtual sound in an electric vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, an electric vehicle (EV) is a vehicle that uses an electric motor as its power source. A typical EV drive system includes a battery, inverter, motor, and gearbox. The battery supplies power to drive the motor. The inverter is connected to the battery and drives and controls the motor. The motor, as the drive source of the EV, is connected to the battery via the inverter in a rechargeable manner. The gearbox reduces the rotational force of the motor and transmits the resulting rotational force to the drive wheels.

[0003] When driving the motor, the inverter converts the DC current supplied by the battery into AC current and applies the resulting AC current to the motor through wires. When generating regenerative power from the motor, the inverter converts the AC current generated by the motor into DC current and then supplies the resulting DC current to the battery to charge it.

[0004] Unlike conventional vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines, typical electric vehicles do not use multi-stage transmissions. Instead, a reduction gear is positioned between the electric motor and the drive wheels. Internal combustion engines have a wide energy efficiency distribution across their operating points and provide high torque only in the high-speed range. In contrast, electric motors have relatively small efficiency differences across their operating points and can generate high torque at low speeds using only the characteristics of a single motor. For this reason, a reduction gear is used instead of a multi-stage transmission.

[0005] Furthermore, because internal combustion engines cannot operate at low speeds, existing conventional vehicles equipped with them require a starting mechanism, such as a torque converter or clutch. However, in the drive system of electric vehicles, the electric motor can be driven at low speeds. For this reason, electric vehicles do not require a starting mechanism. Due to this mechanical difference, unlike internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles offer a smooth driving experience without the discontinuous driving interruptions caused by gear shifting.

[0006] In this way, unlike existing vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines (which burn fuel to generate driving force), electric vehicles generate driving force by using electricity from batteries to drive an electric motor. Therefore, in general, the torque generated in electric vehicles is more moderate, smoother, and more responsive than the torque generated in internal combustion engines through aerodynamic and thermodynamic reactions.

[0007] These characteristics are advantageous for electric vehicles. However, in the case of high-performance vehicles, the noise and physical vibrations of the internal combustion engine, as well as the various effects resulting from its thermodynamic behavior, are considered factors in achieving a sense of motion. For example, one element that the drive system of an electric vehicle cannot provide due to its characteristics is the afterburning sound typically heard in high-performance vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines.

[0008] Afterburning noise is a sound produced by pressure changes in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine. In high-performance vehicles, afterburning noise occurs when compressed fuel, for various reasons, fails to ignite in the engine cylinders and is expelled through the exhaust manifold, then expands within the hot exhaust pipe. Because of afterburning noise, occupants (including the driver) of electric vehicles may desire a sporty driving experience.

[0009] In recent years, electric vehicles have become widely used. Consequently, more and more drivers want to experience the same sporty feel and driving pleasure in electric vehicles as they do in internal combustion engine vehicles. Therefore, there is a need for technology that can virtually generate and provide sounds produced in a drive system different from that of an electric vehicle, to mimic the engine and afterburner sounds of an internal combustion engine vehicle within the electric vehicle. In particular, there is a need for technology capable of providing virtual sounds based on vehicle class differentiation within electric vehicles.

[0010] The foregoing is intended only to help understand the background of the present invention and is not intended to imply that the present invention falls within the scope of prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to provide a method for outputting virtual sound in a way that allows the driver to experience motion and enjoy various driving pleasures in an electric vehicle.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for virtually generating sounds produced in a drive system different from the drive system of an electric vehicle, so as to mimic the engine sound and afterburner sound of an internal combustion engine vehicle in an electric vehicle.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for providing virtual sound based on vehicle class differentiation in electric vehicles.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for providing virtual sound in an electric vehicle is provided, the method comprising: while the electric vehicle is in motion, a control unit collecting vehicle driving information for outputting virtual sound; determining features of the virtual sound by the control unit based on the collected vehicle driving information; generating a virtual effect signal for outputting the virtual sound by the control unit based on information about the determined features of the virtual sound; generating a sound signal including features of the virtual sound by an audio device based on the virtual effect signal input from the control unit; correcting the generated sound signal by the audio device according to setting information based on a preset vehicle level and a sound correction algorithm to obtain a final sound signal corresponding to the vehicle level selected by the driver; and outputting virtual sound corresponding to the selected vehicle level by the audio device according to the final sound signal generated by correction.

[0015] By utilizing the method for providing virtual sound in an electric vehicle according to the present invention, virtual sound can be output and provided in a manner that allows the driver to enjoy a differentiated emotional driving experience and various driving pleasures in the electric vehicle. Furthermore, in the same manner as the afterburner sound in an internal combustion engine vehicle, sounds generated in a drive system different from the electric vehicle's drive system are virtually output and provided in the electric vehicle. Moreover, the virtual sound provides differentiation based on vehicle class. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The above and other objects, features, and other advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating a method for providing virtual afterburner sound according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an apparatus for providing virtual afterburner sound according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the process of providing virtual afterburner sound according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating the characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound according to the present invention;

[0021] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating the characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound determined using the accelerator pedal input value (APS value) and its integral value according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the afterburning signal and sound generation process according to the characteristics of virtual afterburning sound according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0023] Figure 7 A block diagram illustrating the entire process of vehicle-level-based virtual sound correction according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] It should be understood that, as used herein, the terms “vehicle” or “of a vehicle” or other similar terms generally include motor vehicles, such as passenger vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs), buses, trucks, various commercial vehicles, vessels including various boats and ships, aircraft, etc., and include hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles, and other alternative fuel vehicles (e.g., vehicles derived from non-petroleum fuels). As mentioned herein, a hybrid vehicle is a vehicle with two or more power sources, such as a vehicle that is powered by both gasoline and electricity.

[0025] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms. It will be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” describe the presence of the stated features, values, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, values, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the related enumerations. Throughout this specification, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the words “comprising” and variations such as “including” or “including” are to be understood as meaning to include the stated elements, but not excluding any other elements. Furthermore, the terms “unit,” “component,” “device,” and “module” described herein refer to a unit for performing at least one function and operation, and may be implemented by hardware components or software components and combinations thereof.

[0026] Furthermore, the control logic of the present invention can be implemented as a non-volatile computer-readable medium on a computer-readable medium, which contains executable program instructions that are executed by a processor, controller, etc. Examples of computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, ROM, RAM, optical disc (CD)-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, flash drive, smart card, and optical data storage device. The computer-readable medium can also be distributed across a network-connected computer system, thereby enabling the computer-readable medium to be stored and executed in a distributed manner via, for example, a telematics server or a controller area network (CAN).

[0027] The following are illustrative examples of specific structural and functional embodiments of the present invention. Various embodiments are conceived without departing from the essence and spirit of the invention. The present invention should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described in this specification. All variations, equivalents, and alternatives included within the inventive concept should be understood to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0028] In this specification, the terms first, second, etc., are used to describe various constituent elements, but these elements are not limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of each claim defining the invention, a first constituent element may be referred to as a second constituent element. Similarly, a second constituent element may also be referred to as a first constituent element.

[0029] It should be understood that when a component is referred to as "connected" or "connected" to different components, it means that the component can be connected to or linked to different components, or that there can be intermediate components between them. Conversely, it should be understood that when a component is referred to as "directly connected" or "directly linked" to different components, it means that there are no intermediate components between them. Expressions describing relationships between components, such as "between," "directly between," "adjacent to," or "directly adjacent to," should be interpreted in the same way.

[0030] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals describe the same constituent elements. The terminology used throughout this specification is for describing embodiments and does not impose any limitation on the invention. Unless otherwise stated in the wording or sentence herein, words expressed in the singular include the plural.

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] This invention relates to a method for providing virtual sound. The method provides virtual sound in a manner that allows the driver to experience a sense of motion and enjoy various driving pleasures in an electric vehicle. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method that can virtually generate and output sounds generated in a drive system different from the electric vehicle's drive system (e.g., engine sounds or afterburner sounds in an internal combustion engine vehicle). Specifically, this invention relates to a method for providing virtual sound based on vehicle class differentiation in an electric vehicle.

[0033] According to the present invention, the virtual sound intended to be provided may be the motor sound generated in the motor, which serves as the drive device (power generation device) of the electric vehicle, when the electric vehicle is in motion. The motor sound here is a virtual motor sound, not actual motor noise, but rather a virtual vehicle-driven sound of the motor, which is considered to be generated in the motor according to the driving conditions of the electric vehicle.

[0034] Alternatively, according to the invention, the virtual sound intended to be provided could be the engine sound generated in a drive system different from the electric vehicle's drive system (e.g., an engine that serves as the drive unit (power generation unit) of an internal combustion engine vehicle) when the electric vehicle is in motion. Since the electric vehicle does not have an engine, the engine sound is also a virtual engine sound, not real engine noise, but a virtual vehicle driving sound of the engine, which is considered to be generated in the electric vehicle according to the vehicle's driving conditions.

[0035] Alternatively, according to the invention, the virtual sound intended to be provided as described above can be an afterburner sound generated in an internal combustion engine vehicle, rather than a typical engine sound. Since electric vehicles do not have an internal combustion engine, they cannot generate afterburner sounds in the exhaust system. However, according to the invention, a virtual sound is generated, output, and provided in an electric vehicle by simulating the afterburner sounds generated in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine.

[0036] Based on the driver's operation of the accelerator pedal, virtual vehicle driving sounds (i.e., virtual motor sounds or virtual engine sounds) are categorized into acceleration sounds and deceleration sounds. When pressure is applied to the accelerator pedal, an acceleration sound is output. When pressure is released from the accelerator pedal, a deceleration sound is output.

[0037] According to the present invention, virtual sound intended to be provided is generated and output by an audio device in an electric vehicle. The audio device for generating and outputting the virtual sound includes a digital signal processor (DSP), an amplifier, and one or more speakers.

[0038] The method for providing virtual sound according to the present invention is configured to output virtual sound based on vehicle class differentiation via an audio device. Vehicle class herein refers to a vehicle level classified and defined based on at least one of the following: vehicle size and weight, size and output capacity of the power generation unit, number of cylinders and displacement of the engine, or the presence or absence of a turbocharger.

[0039] The following describes a method for providing virtual sound according to an embodiment of the present invention, taking the generation and output of virtual afterburner sound based on vehicle class differentiation in an electric vehicle as an example. An example of providing virtual afterburner sound will be described below. However, virtual afterburner sound can be generated, output, and provided together with virtual engine sound. That is, according to the present invention, the virtual sound intended to be provided when an electric vehicle is in operation includes a virtual afterburner sound generated by simulating afterburner sound generated in the exhaust system of a vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine, and a virtual engine sound generated by simulating engine sound generated in the engine of an internal combustion engine vehicle. Alternatively, according to the present invention, the virtual sound includes virtual motor sound, instead of virtual afterburner sound and virtual engine sound.

[0040] It is well known that the afterburner sound in internal combustion engine vehicles is the exhaust sound that occasionally occurs at the rear of the moving vehicle. Typically, the engine (internal combustion engine) is mounted at the front of the vehicle. Therefore, the engine sound in an internal combustion engine vehicle is noise generated at the front of the moving vehicle. Therefore, according to the present invention, a virtual afterburner sound is set to be output through a speaker mounted at the rear of the electric vehicle, and a virtual engine sound is set to be output through a speaker mounted at the front of the electric vehicle.

[0041] According to the present invention, virtual sound is generated and output based on vehicle driving conditions. Electric vehicles are not equipped with internal combustion engines having intake and exhaust systems. However, according to the present invention, when the control unit uses driving variable information of the electric vehicle to generate an afterburner signal containing characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound, a virtual afterburner sound based on the generated afterburner signal is output via an audio device. At this time, in order to differentiate the output virtual afterburner sound based on vehicle level, an additional frequency or sound pressure correction process is performed on the sound signal based on the vehicle level, as described below. The virtual afterburner sound differentiated based on vehicle level is then output via the audio device accordingly.

[0042] Figure 1 A block diagram illustrating a method for providing virtual sound according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. According to the present invention, when a virtual afterburner sound is output, virtual vibrations of an internal combustion engine are generated to give the driver a sense of motion. At this time, an electric motor is used to generate the virtual vibrations of the internal combustion engine. The electric motor used to generate the virtual vibrations of the internal combustion engine, as described below, is a drive motor connected to the drive wheels to drive an electric vehicle. From the following description, those skilled in the art will understand that internal combustion engine and engine are used interchangeably to refer to the same thing.

[0043] According to the present invention, while the electric vehicle is in motion, driving variable information for outputting a virtual afterburner sound is collected in real time within the electric vehicle. Based on the collected driving variable information, an afterburner signal containing characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound is generated in real time. Then, based on the generated afterburner signal, a virtual afterburner sound is generated and output in an audio device (implementing a sound effect).

[0044] According to the present invention, the driving variable information input to the control unit for outputting a virtual afterburner sound and generating its illusion is information about the actual system installed in the electric vehicle and real-time vehicle driving information in the electric vehicle. Furthermore, the vehicle driving information may include actual driver input information and actual driving state information in the electric vehicle.

[0045] Vehicle driving information can be: sensor measurement information sensed by sensors and input through the vehicle network, information autonomously determined by the control unit according to the present invention, or information input from another control unit in the electric vehicle to the control unit according to the present invention through the vehicle network.

[0046] Specifically, the vehicle driving information used to output the afterburning sound and generate its illusion includes at least one or more of the following: accelerator pedal input value (APS value), motor torque (motor torque command), drive system speed, and temperature of the power electronic components. The accelerator pedal input value is driver input information. The motor torque, drive system speed, and temperature of the power electronic components are driving status information. Furthermore, the vehicle driving information may further include at least one or more of the following: the rate of change (gradient) of the accelerator pedal input value, the integral value of the accelerator pedal input value, the rate of change (gradient) of the motor torque, and the integral value of the motor torque. The rate of change and the integral value of the accelerator pedal input value are driver input information. The rate of change and the integral value of the motor torque are driving status information.

[0047] The accelerator pedal input value is determined based on the driver's operation of the accelerator pedal and is information measured by the accelerator pedal measurement unit, as described below. The rate of change of the accelerator pedal input value refers to the gradient of the change in the accelerator pedal input value and is obtained by calculating the gradient of the accelerator pedal position sensor (APS) signal.

[0048] The motor torque is a motor torque command (the basic torque command described below) determined by the control unit based on vehicle driving information collected in the electric vehicle. Furthermore, the rate of change of motor torque refers to the gradient of change in the motor torque command. Methods for determining and generating motor torque commands for controlling the torque output of the drive motor in an electric vehicle, as well as the steps of such methods, are well known in the art to which this invention pertains, and therefore a detailed description thereof is omitted.

[0049] The drive system speed information is at least one of speed or acceleration. Speed ​​is the rotational speed of a vehicle drive system component, namely the speed of the motor, the wheel speed of the drive wheels (rotational speed of the drive wheels), or the speed of the drive shaft. Acceleration is the rotational acceleration of the motor, drive wheels, or drive shaft. Acceleration can be obtained by differentiating the signal of the motor speed, wheel speed, or drive shaft speed, or it can be an actual measurement value sensed by an acceleration sensor.

[0050] Furthermore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual engine speed, as a virtual variable, can be used as drive system speed information for virtual sound output. The virtual engine speed is a virtual speed determined by the control unit based on driving variable information. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual engine speed is obtained from the driving variable information of the electric vehicle using a preset virtual internal combustion engine model.

[0051] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when using a virtual internal combustion engine model including a virtual engine and a virtual transmission, the virtual engine speed is the input speed of the virtual transmission. The virtual engine speed is calculated as a variable value that is a multiple of the drive system speed measured by the speed measurement unit. The drive system speed here is the motor speed. The value of the coefficient multiplied by the motor speed to calculate the virtual engine speed is determined based on the virtual transmission, the virtual gear ratio model, and the current virtual gear.

[0052] Control methods for generating a virtual shift feel in electric vehicles are known. In these methods, a multi-stage shift feel is generated and experienced by torque control of the drive motor in the electric vehicle (which is not equipped with a multi-stage transmission). Furthermore, it is known to use virtual engine speed as one of the virtual variables necessary for generating and experiencing the multi-stage shift feel during the control process for generating a virtual shift feel in an electric vehicle.

[0053] In this manner, according to the present invention, the virtual engine speed, which is one of the virtual variables used to generate and experience the feeling of multi-level gear shifting, is used as a virtual variable for virtual sound output. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual effects implementation controller uses the virtual vehicle speed and information about the gear ratio of the current virtual gear to determine the virtual vehicle speed.

[0054] Using the actual motor speed (which is the speed included in the actual variable (input variable) information) and the virtual final reduction gear ratio, the virtual vehicle speed is calculated as a value proportional to the actual motor speed. The virtual final reduction gear ratio is a preset value in the virtual effect implementation controller. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual vehicle speed is calculated using the actual motor speed (which is measured when the electric vehicle is in motion) and the virtual final reduction gear ratio, and the virtual engine speed is calculated in real time using the calculated virtual vehicle speed.

[0055] At this point, the virtual engine speed is obtained by multiplying the virtual vehicle speed by the virtual gear ratio of the current virtual gear. Alternatively, the virtual engine speed can be obtained by multiplying the drive system speed (e.g., motor speed) by the virtual gear ratio of the current virtual gear.

[0056] Furthermore, the current virtual gear is determined by the virtual vehicle speed and the accelerator pedal input value (APS value), which is mapped according to the shift plan preset in the virtual effect implementation controller. When the current virtual gear is determined as described above, the virtual engine speed is calculated in real time using the virtual gear ratio and virtual vehicle speed corresponding to the determined current virtual gear, or using the motor speed.

[0057] When the current virtual gear is determined as described above using the virtual vehicle speed and accelerator pedal input value, the virtual engine speed is calculated based on the determined current virtual gear information. At this time, a virtual sound is generated in the electric vehicle based on the calculated virtual engine speed information. The gear information determined by the virtual vehicle speed and accelerator pedal input value is used in this manner. However, instead of the aforementioned gear, the virtual sound can be generated using the gear selected by the driver when performing a gear shifting operation using a shift unit such as a gear lever.

[0058] The temperature of the power electronic component (PE component) is the temperature sensed by a temperature sensor. Power electronic component here refers to the power electronic components of an electric vehicle, such as drive system components. According to the invention, the temperature of the power electronic component is the temperature of the motor, the temperature of the battery, or the temperature of power electronic components other than the motor and battery (e.g., the inverter). Alternatively, the temperature of the power electronic component can be the temperature of a drive system component of another vehicle.

[0059] In electric vehicles, a water-cooling system is used to cool power electronic (PE) components such as the motor, battery, and inverter. This system circulates coolant between each PE component and the radiator. The temperature of the PE components is measured by the temperature of the coolant, which is sensed by temperature sensors.

[0060] According to the present invention, the control unit uses vehicle driving information (which is actual driving variable information in an electric vehicle) or, in addition to vehicle driving information, virtual engine speed (which is virtual variable information) to determine the characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound. The characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound include the point at which it is emitted outward, i.e., the point at which the virtual afterburner sound is output through an audio device. Furthermore, the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound may further include at least one or more of the following: the intensity, duration, time interval, frequency band, and pitch representing the degree of pitch of the sound generated by simulating afterburner sound. The intensity of the virtual afterburner sound refers to its volume.

[0061] When the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound are determined in this way, the control unit generates an afterburner signal based on the determined characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound, and controls the operation of the audio device by outputting the virtual afterburner sound according to the generated afterburner signal.

[0062] As described above, when the control unit obtains the virtual variable information of the internal combustion engine through the actual driving variable information of the electric vehicle, the virtual internal combustion engine model preset and stored in the control unit is used as described above.

[0063] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a device for providing virtual sound according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating the process of providing virtual sound according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] As in Figure 2 As shown, the device for providing virtual sound according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a driving information measurement unit 12, a first control unit 20, and an audio device. The driving information measurement unit 12 measures vehicle driving information. The first control unit 20 determines the characteristics of the virtual rear-end sound based on the vehicle driving information measured by the driving information measurement unit 12, and then generates and outputs a rear-end signal for outputting the virtual rear-end sound based on the determined characteristics. The audio device operates according to the rear-end signal output from the first control unit 20 to output the virtual rear-end sound.

[0065] The audio equipment herein includes a sound generator 51, an amplifier 52, and a speaker 53 (e.g., a subwoofer). The sound generator 51 outputs an audio signal for processing the source signal and the afterburner signal and generating sound. The amplifier 52 operates according to the audio signal and outputs a virtual afterburner sound. The speaker 53 is installed inside or outside the electric vehicle, or inside and outside the electric vehicle. Preferably, multiple speakers 53 are installed in the electric vehicle and used to output the virtual afterburner sound.

[0066] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the first control unit 20 generates and outputs torque commands based on vehicle driving information. Correspondingly, the second control unit 30 controls the operation of the drive unit 41 according to the torque commands output by the first control unit 20. Here, the drive unit 41 may be a drive motor. The first control unit 20 and the second control unit 30 respectively participate in the control process for virtual sound output and other virtual effects implementation in electric vehicles, as well as the vehicle driving control process. The first control unit 20 and the second control unit 30 are described below as performing control independently of each other. However, the control process for virtual sound output in electric vehicles and the vehicle driving control process according to the present invention can be performed by a single integrated control component instead of multiple control units.

[0067] Multiple control units and integrated control components are collectively referred to as control units. These control units execute the control process for virtual sound output according to the present invention, as described below. In this case, the first control unit 20 and the second control unit 30 are collectively referred to as control units.

[0068] Furthermore, the device for providing virtual sound according to the present invention may further include an interface unit 11. Through the interface unit 11, in response to input operations, the driver selectively enables or disables the virtual effects implementation function, including the virtual sound output function.

[0069] Any device that allows the driver to turn the virtual voice output function on or off in an electric vehicle can be used as interface unit 11. Examples of such devices include: operating devices such as buttons or switches installed in the vehicle, input devices for audio-visual navigation (ANV) systems, and touch screens, etc.

[0070] Interface unit 11 is connected to the first control unit 20. Specifically, interface unit 11 is connected to the virtual effects implementation controller 22 of the first control unit 20 (which will be described below). Therefore, when the driver performs an on or off operation via interface unit 11, the on or off signal sent by interface unit 11 is input to the virtual effects implementation controller 22 of the first control unit 20. As a result, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 of the first control unit 20 identifies whether the driver has turned the virtual effects implementation function (including the virtual afterburner sound output function) on or off (see...). Figure 3 Step S1 in the process.

[0071] According to the present invention, the virtual sound output function is executed only when the driver activates the virtual effects implementation function via the interface unit 11 with an input operation, wherein an audio device including a sound generator 51, an amplifier 52, and a speaker 53 is used to output the virtual sound of the internal combustion engine. Furthermore, if the interface unit 11 is a vehicle input device located within the electric vehicle, the operator can also perform the operation of activating or deactivating the virtual afterburner effects implementation function via a mobile device, which is another example of the interface unit 11. The mobile device needs to be communicatively connectable to devices within the electric vehicle, such as the first control unit 20. For this purpose, an input and output communication interface is used to establish a communication connection between the mobile device and the first control unit 20.

[0072] According to the present invention, as in Figure 2As shown, the interface unit 11 is also connected to the sound generator 51 of the audio device. Therefore, as described below, the driver can select a vehicle class or adjust the volume, pitch, etc., of the virtual sound through the interface unit 11. That is, when the driver selects a desired vehicle class through the interface unit 11, a virtual sound corresponding to the selected vehicle class is output from the audio device. The volume, pitch, etc., of the virtual sound can be adjusted using operations performed through the interface unit 11.

[0073] The driving information measurement unit 12 is a component that measures vehicle driving information (driving variable information) required for executing the virtual voice output function and for generating basic torque commands in an electric vehicle. According to the invention, the driving information measurement unit 12 includes an accelerator pedal measurement unit, a speed measurement unit, and a temperature measurement unit. The accelerator pedal measurement unit measures accelerator pedal input information (accelerator pedal input value) based on the driver's operation of the accelerator pedal. The speed measurement unit measures the speed of the vehicle's drive system. The temperature measurement unit measures the temperature of the power electronic components.

[0074] The accelerator pedal detection unit is a conventional accelerator pedal position sensor (APS) mounted on the accelerator pedal and outputting an electrical signal based on the driver's operation of the accelerator pedal. The speed measurement unit acquires information about the vehicle's drive system speed. This information includes the vehicle's drive system speed, acceleration, or both.

[0075] Furthermore, the speed is the rotational speed of the motor driving the electric vehicle (i.e., drive motor 41) (motor speed), the rotational speed of the drive wheel 43 (drive wheel speed), or the rotational speed of the drive shaft (drive shaft speed). In this case, the speed measurement unit is a resolver mounted on the drive motor 41, a wheel speed sensor mounted on the drive wheel 43, or a sensor that senses the drive shaft speed. Acceleration is obtained by differentiating the speed signal from the speed measurement unit, or by the actual measured value of acceleration sensed by the acceleration sensor that serves as the speed measurement unit.

[0076] The temperature measurement unit measures the temperature of the power electronic components. The temperature measurement unit is a temperature sensor that senses the temperature of the power electronic components or a temperature sensor (water temperature sensor) that senses the temperature of the coolant used to cool the power electronic components. The power electronic components here are the drive motor 41 that drives the electric vehicle, an inverter (not shown) for driving and controlling the drive motor 41, a battery (not shown) connected to the drive motor 41 in a rechargeable manner via the inverter, any other power electronic components related to the driving of the drive motor 41, or drive system components.

[0077] According to the present invention, vehicle driving information is used by the basic torque command generation unit 21 to generate a basic torque command, and may further include vehicle speed. In this case, although in Figure 2 As not shown, the driving information measurement unit 12 may further include a vehicle speed measurement unit. The vehicle speed measurement unit measures the current vehicle speed. The vehicle speed measurement unit may be configured to include wheel speed sensors mounted on the drive wheels 43 of the electric vehicle.

[0078] The first control unit 20 includes a basic torque command generation unit 21, a virtual effects implementation controller 22, and a final torque command generation unit 23. The basic torque command generation unit 21 determines and generates a basic torque command based on vehicle driving information. The virtual effects implementation controller 22 determines the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound based on vehicle driving information (which is actual driving variable information) or based on both vehicle driving information and virtual variable information, and then generates and outputs an afterburner signal for generating the afterburner sound based on the determined characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound. The final torque command generation unit 23 generates the final torque command based on the basic torque command input from the basic torque command generation unit 21.

[0079] The basic torque command is a motor torque command determined and generated based on vehicle driving information collected in the electric vehicle while it is in operation. The basic torque command generation unit 21 is a part of the vehicle control unit (VCU) that generates motor torque commands based on vehicle driving information in a conventional electric vehicle.

[0080] Furthermore, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 is a control component that performs overall control of the virtual sound output. According to the present invention, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 is a novel component that determines the characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound for outputting a virtual afterburner sound, and generates and outputs an afterburner signal based on the determined characteristics. The virtual effects implementation controller 22 can be additionally provided within the vehicle control unit as part of the vehicle control unit, or provided as a control component independent of the vehicle control unit.

[0081] The virtual effects implementation controller 22 determines the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound based on vehicle driving information (which is the actual driving variable information of the electric vehicle), or determines the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound based on virtual variable information obtained from the actual driving variable information. Figure 3 Step S2). Furthermore, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 determines the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound, and then generates and outputs an afterburner signal based on the determined characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound. Figure 3 Step S2 in the process.

[0082] Furthermore, in order to generate the illusion of virtual vehicle vibration caused by afterburning using an electric motor (which is the drive unit 41 of an electric vehicle), the virtual effects implementation controller 22 is configured to determine the intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect. This intervention torque command is a correction torque command for generating the virtual vehicle vibration. The intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect determined by the virtual effects implementation controller 22 is input into the final torque command generation unit 23 and used to correct the basic torque command. In this case, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 is configured to determine the intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect based on the characteristics of the determined virtual afterburning sound.

[0083] In the final torque command generation unit 23, the basic torque command input from the basic torque command generation unit 21 is corrected using the correction torque command (intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect) input from the virtual effect implementation controller 22. During correction, the intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect (which is the correction torque command) is added to the basic torque command to calculate the final torque command.

[0084] The second control unit 30 is a control unit that receives torque commands sent from the first control unit 20 (i.e., the final torque command output from the final torque command generation unit 23 of the first control unit 20) and controls the operation of the drive unit 41.

[0085] According to the present invention, the drive device 41 is a motor connected to the drive wheel 43 of the electric vehicle to drive the electric vehicle, i.e., drive motor 41; the second control unit 30 is a known motor control unit (MCU), which drives the drive motor 41 through an inverter and controls the drive of the drive motor 41 in a conventional electric vehicle.

[0086] According to the present invention, the intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect is for providing a vibration to the torque of the motor as the drive device 41 to generate the virtual afterburning illusion, and is for generating a micro-vibration illusion of the motor torque that matches the characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound.

[0087] The intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect has a command value that varies in the form of a wave with a predetermined frequency and amplitude. Alternatively, the intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect has a command value that varies with the characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound. For example, the intervention torque command for implementing the virtual afterburning effect has a command value that is in the form of a pulse corresponding to the intensity, frequency, duration, and time interval of the virtual afterburning sound in the characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound.

[0088] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the torque or rotational force output by the motor 41, which serves as the drive device, is reduced by the reducer 42. Figure 2 The torque or rotational force (as shown in the diagram) is reduced, and then the resulting torque or rotational force is transmitted to the drive wheel 43. When the drive motor 41 is controlled according to the final torque command (which is generated by correcting the intervention torque command used to implement the virtual afterburning effect), the output is the motor torque added to the micro-vibration used to simulate the vibration generated when the virtual afterburning occurs.

[0089] As in Figure 3 As shown, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 determines the characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound. Figure 3 Step S2), then generate and output the afterburning signal based on the determined characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound. Figure 3 (Step S2 in the process). Subsequently, with the sound generator 51, amplifier 52, and speaker 53 operating normally, the operation of the audio equipment is controlled using the afterburn signal. Thus, the afterburn sound is output through the audio equipment. Figure 3 Steps S3 and S4 in the process.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual afterburner sound is characterized by at least one or more of the following: the time point of emission, intensity, duration, time interval, frequency band, and pitch (the degree of highness or lowness of the tone). At the time point of emission, the virtual afterburner sound is output through a sound generator 51, an amplifier 52, and a speaker 53. Intensity, duration, time interval, and frequency band or pitch are the intensity, duration, time interval, and frequency band or pitch of the virtual afterburner sound.

[0091] Figure 2 Reference numeral 54 in the figure depicts a combined instrument panel mounted in front of the driver's seat in an electric vehicle. The combined instrument panel 54 displays the current virtual engine speed and current virtual gear along with the current vehicle speed.

[0092] Taking a virtual afterburner sound as an example, the configuration of the device for outputting the virtual afterburner sound has been described above. According to the present invention, the virtual afterburner sound is merely an example of a virtual sound intended to be provided. The present invention is not limited to providing a virtual afterburner sound. The virtual afterburner sound described above can be replaced with an electric motor sound or an engine sound.

[0093] Furthermore, the afterburner signal described above is used to output a virtual afterburner sound. However, the afterburner signal can be replaced with a vehicle driving signal used to output a virtual motor sound or a virtual engine sound. In this way, according to the present invention, a virtual motor sound or a virtual engine sound can be provided instead of a virtual afterburner sound, or both a virtual engine sound and a virtual afterburner sound can be provided simultaneously.

[0094] According to the present invention, the afterburning signal and the vehicle driving signal are virtual effect signals used in electric vehicles to generate and output virtual sounds, and are signals that match the characteristics of the afterburning sound or the characteristics of the virtual vehicle driving sound (virtual engine sound or virtual motor sound) under the current vehicle driving conditions.

[0095] In this way, when the control unit generates and outputs a virtual effect signal, such as an afterburner signal that matches the characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound or a virtual effect signal, such as a vehicle driving signal that matches the characteristics of a virtual vehicle driving sound, based on driving variable information (vehicle driving information), the audio device uses the sound source signal and the virtual effect signal to output the desired virtual afterburner sound or the desired virtual vehicle driving sound.

[0096] The audio device corrects and adjusts the sound source signal in a way that expresses the characteristics of afterburner sounds or virtual vehicle driving sounds. Subsequently, the audio device further adjusts the corrected and adjusted sound source signal using setting information based on preset vehicle levels and a sound correction algorithm. As a result, a vehicle-level-based virtual sound corresponding to the current vehicle driving conditions is output through the audio device's speaker 53.

[0097] The methods for determining the characteristics of virtual afterburner sound, generating afterburner signals, and outputting virtual afterburner sound will be described in more detail below.

[0098] According to the present invention, the afterburning sound produced in a high-performance vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine is virtually output in an electric vehicle, thereby allowing the driver of the electric vehicle to experience a sense of motion. Furthermore, the driver can experience a sense of motion.

[0099] In internal combustion engine vehicles, afterburning sound is produced by forcibly operating the fuel injection cylinders and adjusting the ignition timing. According to the present invention, an afterburning signal is used to generate an afterburning sound in an electric vehicle, which is generated in an internal combustion engine vehicle via single-cylinder cut (SCC) logic for the internal combustion engine and transmission. The SCC logic here is used to inject a very small amount of fuel into the engine cylinders during upshifting and cause an explosion at the rear end of the exhaust manifold. The SCC logic causes ignition delay and a change in the air-fuel ratio.

[0100] According to the present invention, the afterburn signal is a signal that matches the characteristics of the aforementioned virtual afterburn sound, and the afterburn signal is generated for use in activating an audio device. The characteristics of the afterburn sound are determined substantially using actual driving variable information in the electric vehicle, or actual driving variable information and virtual variable information.

[0101] The actual driving variable information here includes motor torque and drive system speed, while the virtual variable information is virtual engine speed. Furthermore, the drive system speed can be motor speed, drive wheel speed, or drive axle speed. Additionally, according to the present invention, the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound are determined based on motor torque and drive system speed, or based on motor torque and virtual engine speed.

[0102] The motor torque here refers to either the motor torque command or the basic torque command. Furthermore, the accelerator pedal input value (APS value) can be used instead of the motor torque as actual driving variable information to determine the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound. Additionally, the virtual shift signal obtained during the aforementioned control process for generating and experiencing the virtual shift feel can be used as virtual variable information to determine the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound.

[0103] Figure 4 The characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound according to the present invention are shown. Specifically, Figure 4 The characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound are shown, including the timing and intensity (i.e., the volume) of the outward emission of the virtual afterburner sound. According to the invention, the outward emission timing is an element used to determine the time at which the virtual afterburner sound begins to be output.

[0104] The timing of the outward transmission is determined based on the accelerator pedal input value (APS value), which is included in the actual driving variable information and measured by the accelerator pedal measurement unit of the driving information measurement unit 12. Alternatively, the timing of the outward transmission can be determined using motor torque or the temperature of power electronic components. For example, the outward transmission timing is determined when the driver changes from an APS applied state (driver keeps pressing the accelerator pedal) to an APS unapplied state (driver does not keep pressing the accelerator pedal), or when the accelerator pedal input value changes from a value higher than a preset value to a value equal to or lower than a preset value. Alternatively, the outward transmission timing is determined when the motor torque changes from a positive value to zero or a negative value, or when the temperature of power electronic components (such as motor temperature or battery temperature, which may be the temperature of the coolant) falls within a preset range for the outward transmission conditions.

[0105] Furthermore, the higher the value of the drive system speed or virtual engine speed, the lower the value of the intensity (volume) of the virtual afterburner sound, which is a characteristic used to determine the virtual afterburner sound. This is because the intensity of the afterburner increases when the transmission in an internal combustion engine vehicle is in a low gear. Conversely, the higher the value of the drive system speed or virtual engine speed, the higher the intensity of the virtual afterburner sound can be determined. Alternatively, the higher the acceleration value calculated by differentiating the speed signal or the acceleration value obtained from the acceleration sensor signal, the higher the intensity of the virtual afterburner sound is set to. Furthermore, the higher the integral value of the acceleration, the higher the intensity is set to.

[0106] Furthermore, the higher the accelerator pedal input value (APS value), the greater the intensity of the virtual afterburner sound. Additionally, the greater the gradient of decreasing the accelerator pedal input value and the greater the integral value of the accelerator pedal input value, the greater the intensity of the virtual afterburner sound. Furthermore, the greater the motor torque, the greater the intensity. Furthermore, the greater the gradient of decreasing the motor torque, the greater the intensity. Moreover, when the temperature of the power electronic components falls within the predetermined setting range, the intensity is set to a larger value compared to when the temperature of the power electronic components falls outside the predetermined setting range.

[0107] When emitting a virtual afterburn effect as audio, the frequency (the number of times any regular vibration repeats per second), frequency band, or pitch (the degree of highness or lowness of the tone) can be adjusted. The same matching method can be used for each set frequency of the same input variable used for the above intensity settings.

[0108] In addition, the duration of the continuously output virtual afterburning sound is set. The same matching method can be used to set the duration for each of the same input variables used for the intensity settings described above.

[0109] Typically, afterburning sounds are generated simultaneously and continuously in the form of pulses for a predetermined duration. The time interval for continuously generating the afterburning sounds is then set. The same matching method can also be used for each set time interval of the same input variable used for the intensity setting described above.

[0110] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound determined using the accelerator pedal input value (APS value) and its integral value according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 Examples of the timing, intensity, duration, and time interval of a virtual afterburner sound are shown. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the diagram, the amplitude value on the Y-axis represents the intensity (volume) of the virtual afterburn sound, and the value on the X-axis represents the timing of the output of the virtual afterburn sound and the duration for continuous output of the virtual afterburn sound. For example, in... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The characteristics of the virtual afterburning sound shown are exemplary and do not impose any limitations on the invention. The timing, intensity, duration, time interval, etc., of the emitted sound can vary.

[0111] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the afterburner signal and sound generation process according to an embodiment of the present invention, based on the characteristics of a virtual afterburner sound. As described above, after determining the characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound, an afterburner signal matching the determined characteristics of the virtual afterburner sound is generated. Figure 6 An example of an afterburn signal is shown on the left. As described above, the virtual effects implementation controller 22 generates and outputs an afterburn signal that matches the characteristics of the virtual afterburn sound, and transmits the afterburn signal to the sound generator 51 of the audio device.

[0112] The sound generator 51 is one of the main components for reproducing the sound source and includes a digital signal processor (DSP). An afterburn signal is used to correct and adjust the sound source signal of the virtual afterburn sound. Under the control of the CPU, the DSP of the sound generator 51 converts and processes the sound source signal and afterburn signal input through the sound source input terminal. Furthermore, the sound signal generated as a result of processing the sound source signal and afterburn signal in the DSP is amplified by amplifier 52, and then the generated sound signal is output to speaker 53.

[0113] Typically, the afterburner sound in high-performance vehicles equipped with internal combustion engines is generated through the exhaust system. According to the present invention, a virtual afterburner sound is reproduced in an electric vehicle in a similar manner to that in a high-performance vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine, outputting to both the interior and exterior of the electric vehicle. Thus, the driver can achieve the same driving sensation as in an internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0114] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the virtual effect implementation controller 22 is configured as follows: a vehicle driving signal is generated based on the current actual vehicle driving information (driving variable information) collected in the electric vehicle to reproduce a virtual vehicle driving sound (i.e., virtual engine sound or virtual motor sound) independent of the afterburner sound, and then the generated vehicle driving signal independent of the afterburner signal is transmitted to the sound generator 51.

[0115] In this configuration, the virtual vehicle driving sound, matching the virtual effect signal, is reproduced and output through one or more speakers 53 installed inside the electric vehicle. Furthermore, the afterburner sound, matching the afterburner signal, and the vehicle driving sound, matching the vehicle driving signal, are reproduced and output through one or more speakers 53 installed outside the electric vehicle. At this time, among the speakers 53 installed in the front-rear direction on the outside of the electric vehicle, the virtual afterburner sound is reproduced and output through a speaker 53 installed at the rear of the electric vehicle, and the virtual engine sound is reproduced and output through a speaker 53 installed at the front of the electric vehicle. Alternatively, the afterburner sound can also be reproduced and output through a speaker 53 installed inside the electric vehicle.

[0116] In the digital signal processor (DSP) of the sound generator 51, the sound source signal (WAV, etc.) is stored and corrected, and the pitch (highness or lowness of the tone) of the sound is adjusted. Furthermore, the pitch is changed and the resistance is adjusted via gain control. Additionally, the APS resistance is adjusted via APS control, and the frequency band used for reproduction is adjusted via a frequency filter. Furthermore, a second sound source is generated via Shepard layer control, and the sound source adjustment area is adjusted. Additionally, the volume of each of the virtual afterburner sound and the vehicle driving sound is adjusted.

[0117] According to an embodiment of the present invention, when the above-mentioned virtual sound (i.e., virtual afterburner sound or virtual vehicle driving sound (virtual motor sound or virtual engine sound)) is reproduced and output, the audio device uses the sound source signal or virtual effect signal (afterburner signal or vehicle driving signal) to perform additional processing and correction on the generated sound signal, thereby generating a sound signal based on vehicle grade differentiation.

[0118] That is, when the control unit (the virtual effects implementation controller of the first control unit 20) generates and outputs an afterburner signal or a vehicle driving signal, the sound generator 51 of the audio device receives the afterburner signal or the vehicle driving signal, processes the received afterburner signal or the vehicle driving signal together with the sound source signal, and generates a sound signal according to the vehicle driving conditions. Subsequently, the sound generator 51 adjusts and processes the sound signal according to a preset sound correction algorithm and generates a final sound signal based on vehicle level differentiation. Accordingly, the audio device outputs virtual sounds (virtual afterburner sound, virtual vehicle driving sound, or virtual afterburner sound and virtual vehicle driving sound) based on vehicle level differentiation according to the generated final sound signal.

[0119] By outputting virtual sounds differentiated based on vehicle class, the vehicle class-based setting information obtained during the electric vehicle's R&D phase, along with a sound correction algorithm utilizing this setting information, is pre-stored in the sound generator 51 of the mass-produced electric vehicle. Therefore, when a driver selects a desired vehicle class via interface unit 11 in a mass-produced electric vehicle, the driver uses the vehicle class-based setting information (corresponding to the selected vehicle class) and the sound correction algorithm to correct the sound signal via the sound generator 51 of the audio device, and outputs a virtual sound differentiated based on the vehicle class according to the final sound signal generated through correction.

[0120] Vehicle-level configuration information and voice correction algorithms obtained during the electric vehicle R&D phase are stored in and used in mass-produced electric vehicles. To this end, the concept is defined considering the brand identity of the vehicle model used by the vehicle manufacturer (e.g., HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIAMOTORS CORPORATION, or GENESIS). Then, an emotion recognition modeling process (including a panel test) is performed to evaluate and select the optimal voice based on the vehicle level. Thus, vehicle-level configuration information and voice correction algorithms capable of producing the optimal voice are obtained.

[0121] In the emotion recognition modeling process, vehicle-level voices (which can express and provide emotions represented by terms such as "powerful," "refined," "elegant," "luxurious," and "magnificent"—classified based on vehicle level) are evaluated and then selected or modified. Next, the voice signal is corrected based on vehicle level. Finally, vehicle-level settings and voice correction algorithms are established to generate the final voice signal.

[0122] Furthermore, during the R&D phase of electric vehicles, the average sound value based on vehicle level can be analyzed. This average value is measured through self-testing and evaluation methods. The results of this analysis can then be utilized when setting vehicle-level configuration information and sound correction algorithms. In this case, the sound pressure weight or reference sound pressure level based on vehicle level is set as the vehicle-level configuration information. The sound pressure weight or reference sound pressure level is obtained by analyzing the average sound value based on vehicle level (measured through self-testing and evaluation methods). Additionally, vehicle-level configuration information, such as the order and frequency band of the virtual sound based on vehicle level, and the variable frequency based on the number of cylinders, is obtained as needed based on the number of cylinders in the simulated engine. The variable frequency setting based on the number of cylinders is obtained by specifying the vehicle level (light, small, medium, or large vehicle) through the power generation device. The order and frequency band of the virtual sound are determined according to the variation in the number of cylinders.

[0123] The bandwidth of the pulses generated based on the engine's revolutions per minute is defined as the order. Different orders and bandwidths allow for sound differentiation based on vehicle class. A reference for setting the variable frequency based on the number of cylinders is determined by generalizing the characteristics of the variable frequency of the pulses generated based on the number of cylinders in the electric vehicle's engine while the electric vehicle is in operation. Using this reference, variable frequencies differentiated based on the number of cylinders are set, and sound correction algorithms are used for tuning based on the number of cylinders to generate and reproduce the corrected sound.

[0124] According to the present invention, vehicle class is generally a vehicle category classified using methods known in the art. Specifically, vehicle class refers to a vehicle category arbitrarily classified and defined based on at least one of the following: vehicle size and weight, size and output capacity of the power generation unit, number of cylinders and displacement of the engine, or presence or absence of a turbocharger. Specifically, electric vehicles are classified into large, medium, and small vehicles. Furthermore, electric vehicles can be selectively classified into luxury vehicles, light vehicles, near-large vehicles, and near-medium-sized vehicles.

[0125] According to the present invention, the vehicle-level-based setting information includes vehicle-level-based information and vehicle-level-based setting information for correction. For example, the vehicle-level-based information is the type of electric vehicle, such as large electric vehicle, medium-sized electric vehicle, small electric vehicle, luxury electric vehicle, light electric vehicle, semi-large electric vehicle, or semi-medium-sized electric vehicle, which is generated based on classification according to the size and weight of the electric vehicle, the size and output capacity of the power generation device, the number of cylinders and displacement of the engine, and the presence or absence of a turbocharger.

[0126] Therefore, when the driver selects a vehicle class through the interface unit 11, the audio device uses the setting information and sound correction algorithm corresponding to the selected vehicle class to adjust the sound pressure and the frequency of the sound signal, and uses the adjusted sound signal as the final sound signal to output a virtual sound based on the vehicle class differentiation.

[0127] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the virtual sound, which is further adjusted according to the values ​​set by the driver operation interface unit 11, is set to be finally output through the speaker 53. The interface unit 11 may be an operating unit of a multimedia system (AVN system) installed in an electric vehicle. The operation of the interface unit 11 includes at least one of volume adjustment or tone adjustment.

[0128] In this manner, according to the present invention, virtual sound is output and provided in a way that allows the driver to experience motion and enjoy various driving pleasures in the electric vehicle. Furthermore, in the same way as the afterburner sound in an internal combustion engine vehicle, sounds generated in a drive system different from the electric vehicle's drive system are virtually output and provided in the electric vehicle. Additionally, virtual sound based on vehicle class differentiation is provided in the electric vehicle.

[0129] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, additions, and substitutions may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for providing virtual sound in an electric vehicle, the method comprising: While the electric vehicle is in motion, the control unit collects vehicle driving information for outputting virtual sound, including the temperature of the power electronic components. Based on the collected vehicle driving information, the control unit determines the characteristics of the virtual sound, wherein the characteristics of the virtual sound include the time point of its outward emission, and the time point of its outward emission is the time point when the virtual sound is output by the audio device. When the temperature of the power electronic components falls within a preset range, the control unit determines the time point for sending out signals. Based on the information of the characteristics of the determined virtual sound, the control unit generates a virtual effect signal for outputting the virtual sound; Based on the virtual effects signal input from the control unit, the audio device generates a sound signal that includes the characteristics of virtual sound; The audio signal generated by the audio device is corrected according to the sound correction algorithm and the setting information based on the preset vehicle level to obtain the final sound signal corresponding to the vehicle level selected by the driver. Based on the final sound signal generated through calibration, the audio device outputs a virtual sound corresponding to the selected vehicle class.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The virtual sound is generated by simulating the afterburning sound produced in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine vehicle.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The virtual sound is either a virtual engine sound or a virtual motor sound.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The virtual sounds include: virtual afterburning sounds generated by simulating the afterburning sounds produced in the exhaust system of an internal combustion engine vehicle, and virtual engine sounds generated by simulating the engine sounds of an internal combustion engine vehicle. Virtual afterburner sounds are output through speakers mounted at the rear of the electric vehicle, and virtual engine sounds are output through speakers mounted at the front of the electric vehicle.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The features of the virtual sound further include: The intensity, duration, time interval, frequency band, or pitch of a virtual sound.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle driving information includes at least one of the following: accelerator pedal input value, motor torque command, and drive system speed information input by the driver.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The vehicle class is a class of vehicles that is classified and defined based on at least one of the following: vehicle size and weight, size and output capacity of the generator, number of cylinders and displacement of the engine, or presence or absence of a turbocharger.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, When correcting the generated sound signal to obtain the final sound signal corresponding to the vehicle level, the frequency and sound pressure of the sound signal before correction are adjusted according to the sound correction algorithm and the setting information based on the vehicle level, thereby performing correction.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, The driver selects and inputs the vehicle level via an interface unit connected to the audio equipment in the electric vehicle.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, When outputting virtual sound, the output virtual sound is adjusted according to the values ​​set by the interface unit connected to the audio device.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The operation interface unit includes at least one of volume adjustment or tone adjustment.

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