Electric vehicle simulation system and method

Abstract

An electric vehicle simulation system and method is provided that uses at least one force generator (FG) to induce vibrations that simulate the feel of an internal combustion engine in an all-electric, hybrid-electric, or alternative fuel vehicle. The FG can be a circular FG (CFG), a linear FG (LFG), or a combination of both a CFG and a LFG.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 214654, filed on June 24, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The topics disclosed in this article generally relate to vibration control and methods for simulating the feel of an internal combustion engine (also known as an ICE) when operating all-electric, hybrid-electric, or alternative fuel vehicles. Background Technology

[0004] As interest grows in all-electric, hybrid, or alternative fuel vehicles, some brands may lose some of the "cache" that can be attributed to internal combustion engines. Much of this "cache" comes from the vibrations felt by occupants within the passenger compartment. In some internal combustion engine vehicles, occupants expect to feel one or more vibrations associated with the engine and its revolutions per minute (RPM), gear shifts, and / or the vibrations generated by the exhaust system. These sensations may be part of the brand identity or an expected choice for a particular type or style of vehicle. However, owners are also interested in environmentally conscious vehicles and are opting for all-electric, hybrid, or alternative fuel vehicles. Therefore, the desire for a vehicle with a traditional feel needs to be further aligned with a desire for environmental awareness.

[0005] What is needed is a vibration-inducing system to create a sensation similar to that of an internal combustion engine. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one embodiment, this disclosure describes a system for simulating the sensation of an internal combustion engine during operation of an electric vehicle. The simulation system includes: an electric vehicle having a chassis; an electric motor supported by the chassis; an acceleration device that controls the operation of the electric motor; at least one data source capable of providing data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle; at least one force generator controller that communicates with the at least one data source, the force generator controller being programmed to generate a demand signal in response to data received from the at least one data source, and the force generator controller being configured to transmit the demand signal to a force generator; the force generator being configured to generate vibration upon receiving the demand signal from the force generator controller.

[0007] In another embodiment, this disclosure provides a method for simulating the sensation of an internal combustion engine during the operation of an electric vehicle, comprising: the electric vehicle including: a chassis; an electric motor supported by the chassis; an acceleration device configured to control the operation of the electric motor; at least one data source capable of providing data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle; at least one force generator; a force generator controller programmed to receive data from the at least one data source and programmed to generate a demand signal suitable for controlling the operation of the force generator, and the force generator controller configured to transmit the demand signal to the force generator; the force generator configured to generate vibration upon receiving the demand signal from the force generator controller;

[0008] The data source is used to monitor the operational changes of the electric vehicle and generate data representing the operational changes of the electric vehicle.

[0009] Data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle is transmitted to a force generator controller; the force generator controller receives the data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle and generates a demand signal.

[0010] The demand signal from the force generator controller is transmitted to the force generator;

[0011] The force generator is used to generate vibrations that simulate the changes in the operation of the internal combustion engine corresponding to data representations during the operation of the electric vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an electric vehicle is shown.

[0013] Figure 2 A force generator that produces a force of 35 Hz is shown, where the force is modulated to simulate an internal combustion engine at idle speed.

[0014] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This shows a simulation of a V8 internal combustion engine vehicle on the passenger side of the vehicle frame as the vehicle moves and shifts gears.

[0015] Figure 4A and Figure 4B This shows a simulation of a V8 internal combustion engine vehicle on the driver's side of the vehicle frame as the vehicle moves and shifts gears.

[0016] Figure 5 The simulation shows the transient vibration during gear shifting in a V8 internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0017] Figure 6An electrical schematic diagram of an example of a linear force generator is shown.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a linear force generator example.

[0019] Figure 8 An electrical schematic diagram of an example of a circular force generator is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0020] Throughout this disclosure, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and variations thereof are used to indicate values ​​that include inherent variations or errors in the equipment, system, or measurement method employed, as recognized by those skilled in the art.

[0021] See Figures 1 to 5 They disclosed a system that simulates the feeling of an internal combustion engine vehicle. Figure 1 An electric vehicle 10 is shown, which includes a chassis 12, a passenger compartment 14, an electric motor 16, a CAN bus network 18, an acceleration device 20, at least one force generator (FG) 22, and at least one FG controller 24. Any suitable control mechanism can be used as the acceleration device 20; however, Figure 1 A common foot pedal is depicted. Additional sensors, such as vehicle speed sensor 15 and accelerator position sensor 21, are also present as part of the original equipment of the electric vehicle 10. Such sensors can be located in any convenient location suitable for their purpose. Furthermore, the electric motor 16 typically includes an electric motor controller 17. These components and sensors provide data to the CAN bus network 18, as do the electric motor controller 17 and the FG controller 24. As used herein, the terms electric vehicle 10 and electric motor 16 are not intended to be limited to fully electric vehicles. Rather, electric vehicle 10 and electric motor 16 are intended to include fully electric vehicles operating using electric motors, hybrid electric vehicles operating using a hybrid electric motor-internal combustion engine, and alternative fuel vehicles operating using fuel cells and other alternative fuels.

[0022] As those skilled in the art will know, the chassis or frame forms the foundation for the rest of a vehicle. Everything else is built upon the chassis. The chassis may also include other components such as the suspension, brakes, drivetrain, and steering linkages. Modern vehicles typically have one of two different styles of chassis: unibody or body-on-frame. Most vehicles, except for pickup trucks or large SUVs, have a unibody chassis. This means that the body (what gives the car its shape) and the chassis are part of the same component. As used herein, the term chassis refers to both body-on-frame and unibody constructions.

[0023] The construction and use of FG 22 are well known to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the composition and operation of linear and circular force generators will not be discussed in detail. As is known to those skilled in the art, FG 22 is typically used to control vehicle vibrations; however, in a simulation system, at least one FG 22 provides the ability to generate vibrations in the electric vehicle 10, making the running feel simulated of existing and historical internal combustion engine vehicles. Thus, the disclosed simulation system creates an experience corresponding to the operation of an internal combustion engine vehicle while enjoying the benefits of the electric vehicle 10. At least one FG 22 can be a circular FG (CFG), a linear FG (LFG), or a combination of both CFG and LFG. Figure 6 A typical electrical schematic diagram of a linear force generator is drawn, and Figure 8 An electrical schematic diagram of a typical circular force generator is depicted. As is known to those skilled in the art, such as Figure 7 As shown, the linear force generator 30 includes a mass 32. In this case, the mass 32 corresponds to a magnet 34 movably supported on a shaft 36. At least one spring 37 provides a centering force to the magnet 34. Finally, the linear force generator 30 includes a coil 38. In response to a demand signal from the FG controller 24, activation of the coil 38 induces movement in the magnet 34, resulting in the generation of vibrations.

[0024] Figure 8 The schematic diagram provided corresponds to a circular force generator with two rotating unbalanced masses, where the two masses rotate in the same direction and at the same frequency (rotate together) because the rotational force vector is controlled. Two eccentricities (mA and mB) generate the rotational force vector through their respective centrifugal forces, which can be vector-summed to produce a controllable rotational force vector that also rotates at the same frequency. However, other circular force generators also perform satisfactorily in simulation systems.

[0025] In one embodiment, the simulation system includes at least one Filter Generator (FG) 22 attached to or integrated into the chassis 12 and / or passenger compartment 14. The simulation system also includes at least one FG controller 24, which electronically communicates with the at least one FG 22 and a CAN bus network 18. The FG controller 24 receives data from various data sources via the CAN bus network 18, selected for their ability to convey data representing changes in vehicle operation. Specifically, for the purpose of generating signals to simulate the operation of a vehicle powered by an ICE, the data sources should provide interpretable and applicable data. Such data sources may include a vehicle speed sensor 15, an accelerator position sensor 21, and an electric motor controller 17. Data received from the electric motor controller 17 will typically correspond to the current torque or power demand applied to the electric motor 16. The FG controller 24 includes programming suitable for interpreting and using the data received from these data sources to generate demand signals. The FG controller 24 is also programmed to transmit demand signals to the FG 22. The demand signals control the FG 22 and instruct it to generate vibrations corresponding to the current operating state of the vehicle 10.

[0026] In another embodiment, the FG 22 can be attached to or integrated into a location outside the chassis 12. For example, the FG 22 can be integrated into the passenger compartment 14. The only limitation on the location of the FG 22 relates to its ability to induce at least one vibration mode or resonance based on the vehicle speed and / or the location of the acceleration device 20. As mentioned above, in some cases, the chassis 12 can be a monolithic structure. Since monolithic vehicles lack a traditional frame, the location of the FG 22 can be any convenient location suitable for transmitting the desired vibrations to the occupants of the vehicle's passenger compartment. Similarly, for vehicles with a separate frame as the chassis 12, the FG 22 can be integrated into the frame or as part of the body 11, as long as the location transmits vibrations to the occupants within the passenger compartment 14. Thus, one or more FG 22s can be fixed under the seats, in contact with the steering control mechanism, behind the door panels, and positioned to operate the hood and trunk lid of the vehicle 10. Using multiple FG 22s will enhance the overall simulation of the internal combustion engine.

[0027] As described above, each FG 22 will receive a demand signal from the FG controller 24, which instructs the operation of the FG 22 to generate vibrations sufficient to simulate the sensation felt by at least one occupant in the passenger compartment 14 of an internal combustion engine vehicle. The generated vibrations propagate through the body 11 of the vehicle 10 to the passenger compartment 14 or through the chassis 12 to both the body 11 and the passenger compartment 14.

[0028] In another embodiment, the simulation system further includes an acoustic simulator subsystem. The acoustic simulator subsystem includes an acoustic simulator 26 and an acoustic simulator controller 27. Figure 1As shown, at least one FG controller 24, the CAN bus network 18, and the optional acoustic simulator controller 27 communicate electronically with each other directly or indirectly. As shown, at least one FG controller 24 communicates electronically with both the CAN bus network 18 and the optional acoustic simulator controller 27. The acoustic simulator 26 can be any one or more conventional audio speakers configured to produce sounds corresponding to a frequency range corresponding to engine noise and / or engine exhaust noise. When the simulation system includes the optional acoustic simulator subsystem, the two systems must be coordinated to produce the desired ICE simulation. The coordination of the systems will be discussed in the description of the method for simulating the ICE below.

[0029] The occupant's simulated "feeling" of the internal combustion engine vehicle is controlled by at least one FG controller 24 and a CAN bus network 18. The simulation of the internal combustion engine vehicle involves both the physical and auditory sensations of at least one occupant. Therefore, to further enhance the simulation of the internal combustion engine vehicle, the acoustic simulator controller 27 receives the same data from the CAN bus network 18 as the FG controller 24, namely vehicle speed data, accelerator position data, and torque or power demand of the electric motor 16. The acoustic simulator controller 27 includes programming to interpret the received data and generate audio demand signals. The acoustic simulator controller is also programmed to transmit the audio demand signals to the acoustic simulator 26. Upon receiving the audio demand signals, the acoustic simulator 26 generates an audio output corresponding to the current operating condition of the vehicle. For example, during acceleration, the acoustic simulator can emit an audio output corresponding to any desired, continuously increasing RPM of the internal combustion engine, while also simulating the sound of engine exhaust under such conditions. Similarly, during deceleration, the acoustic simulator 26 will receive an appropriate audio demand signal that guides the generation of an audio output corresponding to changes in engine speed.

[0030] The simulation system disclosed herein provides at least four modes of interest. The first mode is an idle mode, in which the electric vehicle 10 is in a stationary / non-moving position. In this mode, the simulation system provides the sensation of an internal combustion engine system idling between 600 revolutions per minute (RPM) and 5000 RPM as the position 20 of the accelerator 20 changes. At least one FG 22 generates vibrations simulating the RPM of an internal combustion engine idling, with operations that increase or decrease the RPM demand on the engine. In one embodiment of the idle mode, the electric vehicle 10 is in a stationary position and does not move as the accelerator 20 changes. In one embodiment of the idle mode, the electric vehicle 10 is able to simulate changes in RPM similar to those of an internal combustion engine as the accelerator 20 changes. In a non-limiting example, the sports car is the electric vehicle 10, and the operator desires the sensation of the engine “spinning” and “generating engine power” when the electric vehicle is stationary, for example, when the transmission is in neutral and the accelerator 20 is pressed and released.

[0031] In the second mode, the simulation system provides a simulated feeling of acceleration / deceleration of an internal combustion engine vehicle in motion. The simulation creates a sense of demand on the internal combustion engine when the vehicle accelerates, decelerates, is cruising, and / or the load changes (e.g., uphill or downhill). In this mode, the FG controller 24 generates a demand signal in response to data received from at least the accelerator position sensor 21, where the data corresponds to the position of the accelerator 20. More typically, the FG controller 24 receives data from the accelerator position sensor 21, the vehicle speed sensor 15, and information from the electric motor controller 17 related to the torque / power demand of the electric motor 16 via the CAN bus network 18. The FG controller 24 is programmed to calibrate the received date to determine the simulated RPM / speed of the internal combustion engine vehicle in motion. The FG controller 24 then transmits signals instructing the operation of one or more FGs to generate vibrations that simulate the feeling corresponding to the speed of an electric vehicle, including whether the vehicle is accelerating, decelerating, or cruising. In a non-limiting example, the operator of the electric vehicle 10 desires feedback on engine operation during movement, and at least one FG 22 induces vibration in response to a demand signal that simulates the demand on the engine at a given speed and / or load. Therefore, in response to the position of the acceleration device and / or other received data, the simulation system controls and directs one or more FG 22s to simulate and track acceleration / deceleration events of internal combustion engine RPM changes.

[0032] The third mode is a shift mode, which simulates an internal combustion engine vehicle with a transmission that undergoes various gear shifts during acceleration or deceleration. During the shift mode simulation and as the electric vehicle 10 accelerates or decelerates, the electric vehicle experiences changes in perceived vibrations from at least one FG 22. The simulated sensation for at least one occupant changes based on speed, acceleration / deceleration, and demands from the acceleration device. In a non-limiting example, the sports car is the electric vehicle 10, and the operator desires rapid acceleration but wants the feeling of a gear shift. In this example, the operator feels changes in vibrations simulated as if experiencing the vibrations of an internal combustion engine sports car undergoing a gear shift. The electric vehicle 10 can have any number of simulated gear shift changes.

[0033] The fourth mode is the safety enhancement mode, in which at least one FG 22 provides additional feedback based on unsafe conditions. For example, the owner of electric vehicle 10 might want to create a speed regulator that allows the operator of electric vehicle 10 to exceed a set speed, but introduces unpleasant vibrations felt by all occupants through passenger compartment 14. Similarly, the same owner might want to enhance existing safety warning devices such as lane departure warnings so that all occupants of passenger compartment 14 feel vibrations when the electric vehicle inadvertently leaves a set lane. In a non-limiting example, at least one FG 22 is driven to open / close (disable) at a frequency in the range of 0.5 to 2 Hz to create an enhanced safety warning.

[0034] All four modes can be seamlessly integrated together and / or can be implemented individually by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). Depending on the OEM's needs, one or more modes may be user / owner selectable, simulate specific (i.e., associated with a specific internal combustion engine), and / or operator / owner controlled / set. These adjustable options related to vibrations from at least one FG 22 are based on preset selections of options, such as the example immediately preceding them.

[0035] In each mode, the FG controller transmits a demand signal to guide the operation of one or more FGs 22 to generate the required vibrations corresponding to the action to be simulated. To generate the demand signal, the FG controller 24 receives data from the accelerator position sensor 21, the vehicle speed sensor 15, and information related to the torque / power demand of the electric motor 16 from the electric motor controller 17 via the CAN bus network 18. The FG controller 24 programs the calibration received date to determine the simulation mode required for the necessary vibrations. The FG controller 24 then transmits the signal to guide the operation of one or more FGs 22 to generate vibrations corresponding to one or more operating modes. Thus, the demand signal controls and guides one or more FGs 22 to generate vibrations that are transmitted to the passenger compartment 14 and produce the operating "feel" of a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine experiencing the same operating conditions.

[0036] If the optional acoustic simulator controller 27 is paired with at least one FG controller 24, the combination of the two can synchronize and simulate both the feel and sound of an internal combustion engine vehicle. In this embodiment, either the simulator controller 27 or the FG controller 24 can be programmed to manage the overall operation of the simulation system. Either controller will coordinate and manage the operation of the other controller to ensure the simultaneous operation of one or more FGs 22 and one or more acoustic simulators 26, thereby providing a seamless simulation of the ICE operating under the specific conditions at the time.

[0037] See Figure 2 This illustrates a non-limiting example using the simulation system described above. Figure 2 The graphics depict the simulation system operating in a manner that mimics the idling of an 8-cylinder internal combustion engine. Generally, the 8-cylinder ICE idles at approximately 600 RPM or 10 Hz, with an exhaust pulse frequency of 40 Hz and a full ignition sequence frequency of 5 Hz. To simulate this operation, the FG 22 vibration frequency is typically around 40 Hz, as this frequency easily transmits through and enters the vehicle structure 11. Figure 2 In the example, FG 22 generates a vibrational force at a frequency of 35 Hz, which is assumed to be the electric vehicle body mode / resonance in the example. The vibrational force from at least one FG 22 is modulated at 5 Hz to match the nominal full ignition sequence frequency. For example, a 50% nominal duty cycle pulse width modulation, where at least one FG 22 changes from set force to zero force with random deviations within the cycle. Finally, to simulate random variations in idle RPM, random jitter can be applied to the modulation of the FG 22 vibration.

[0038] One or more FG 22s suitable for use in the simulation system can generate a force between 0.5 Newtons and approximately 60 Newtons. Typically, the selection of one or more FG 22s is based on the size of the electric vehicle 10 and the desired internal combustion engine to be simulated (e.g., V8, V6, I4, and / or turbocharged engine). One or more FG 22s generate the force necessary to shake the passenger compartment 14 and create the simulated sensation. If necessary, one or more larger FG 22s with greater force capabilities can be used. Furthermore, a combination of more than one FG 22 can be used to simulate the sensation of an internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0039] See Figures 3A to 4B This shows the crew side of the crew compartment 14. Figure 3A and 3B Non-limiting examples of shifting modes on the driver's side (4A and 4B). In these examples, at least one FG 22 generates a vibrational force with a frequency between 0 Hz and 200 Hz based on measured acceleration of the moving internal combustion engine vehicle. Corresponding to this frequency, the simulated internal combustion engine operates between 2400 RPM and 4600 RPM. When the example vehicle shifts gears, the frequency and vibration felt on the passenger side and driver's side of the passenger compartment 14 decrease with changing RPM. Example data show that the frame and seat vibrations vary across RPM due to resonance at different frequencies between the electric vehicle 10 and the passenger compartment 14.

[0040] See Figure 5 Another non-limiting example illustrates transient hotspot 40 during the acceleration of an internal combustion engine vehicle. Hotspot 40 indicates the vibration input necessary for a typical V8 internal combustion engine, as well as the associated RPM changes during approximately 7.5 seconds of vehicle acceleration and gear shifting. These hotspots 40 indicate the timing and manner in which at least one FG 22 will induce vibrations at the same frequency based on the simulated internal combustion engine's RPM.

[0041] A method for simulating an internal combustion engine in an electric vehicle 22 is provided. In this method, a CAN bus network 18 provides data communication between a vehicle speed sensor 15, an accelerator position sensor 21, an electric motor controller 17, an FG controller 24, and an optional acoustic simulator controller 27. In some embodiments, one or more FGs 22 and one or more optional acoustic simulators 26 may receive signals from the FG controller 24 and the optional acoustic simulator controller 27 via the CAN bus network; however, in most cases, the FG controller 24 will have a direct link to one or more FGs 22, and the optional acoustic simulator controller 27 will have a direct link to one or more optional acoustic simulators 26. In response to operational changes in the vehicle 10, the FG controller 24 receives data from the vehicle speed sensor 15, the accelerator position sensor 21, and the electric motor controller 17. This data will reflect changes in vehicle speed, changes in the position of the accelerator 20, and the current torque or power demand on the electric motor. To simulate the response typically generated by an ICE, programming in the FG controller 24 will interpret the data, generate demand signals, and transmit the demand signals to one or more FGs 22. The demand signal includes the necessary information to control and guide the operation of one or more FG 22s. Therefore, each FG 22 will generate vibrations that can be sensed within the passenger compartment 14. Since the FG 22 is fixed to a location within the chassis 12 of the vehicle 10, a predetermined body panel, or the passenger compartment 14, the resulting vibrations are transmitted to the passenger compartment 14, simulating the operating conditions of an internal combustion engine, so that the occupants in the passenger compartment experience a "feeling" corresponding to the operation of a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. Therefore, based on the demand signal received from at least one FG controller 24, at least one FG 22 generates a vibrational force simulating the operating characteristics of a vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine.

[0042] When the acoustic simulator subsystem is included as part of the simulator system, the FG controller 24 and the acoustic simulator controller 27 are programmed to provide synchronized operation of one or more FGs 22 and the acoustic simulator 26. Furthermore, to provide the required simulation, the acoustic simulator controller 27 will receive the same data as the FG controller 24. Alternatively, either the acoustic simulator controller 27 or the FG controller 24 can provide master control over the simulation operation. If the FG controller 24 has master control, it is programmed to manage data signals such that, in directing the operation of the acoustic simulator controller 27, the timing of demand signals from the FG controller 24 arrives at one or more FGs 22 simultaneously with the acoustic simulator 26 receiving the audio demand signals from the acoustic simulator controller 27. Similarly, if the acoustic simulator controller 27 has master control, it is programmed to manage data signals such that, in directing the operation of the FG controller 24, the timing of audio demand signals from the acoustic simulator controller 27 arrives at the acoustic simulator 26 simultaneously with the one or more FGs 22 receiving the demand signals from the FG controller 24. In either configuration, the acoustic simulator 26 and one or more FGs 22 synchronously receive appropriate audio demand signals and demand signals, thereby generating a simulation of an ICE-powered vehicle undergoing operational changes determined by indicated sensors.

[0043] This subject matter can be implemented in other forms without departing from its spirit and essential characteristics. The embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Although this subject matter has been described with reference to specific preferred embodiments, other embodiments that will be apparent to those skilled in the art are also within the scope of this subject matter.

Claims

1. A system for simulating the sensation of an internal combustion engine during operation of an electric vehicle, comprising: Electric vehicle (10) with chassis (12); The electric motor (16) is supported by the chassis (12); An acceleration device (20) controls the operation of the electric motor (16); Data source (15, 21), which is capable of providing data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle (10); A force generator controller (24) communicates with the data source (15, 21) and is programmed to generate a first demand signal and at least one additional demand signal, wherein the first demand signal corresponds to an idle mode and the additional demand signal corresponds to any one of an acceleration / deceleration mode, a shift mode, or a safety enhancement mode, wherein the idle mode provides the sensation of the internal combustion engine system idling between 600 rpm and 5000 rpm as the position of the accelerator (20) changes, wherein the acceleration / deceleration mode provides the sensation of the internal combustion engine demand when the vehicle accelerates, decelerates, is cruising, and / or has load changes, wherein the shift mode simulates an internal combustion engine vehicle with a transmission that undergoes various shifts during acceleration or deceleration, and wherein the safety enhancement mode introduces unpleasant vibrations felt by all occupants through the passenger compartment based on unsafe conditions; The force generator controller is configured to select and generate the first demand signal or the additional demand signal in response to data received from the data source, and the force generator controller is configured to transmit the first demand signal or the additional demand signal to a first circular force generator (22) fixed to the chassis of the vehicle at a first location. The first circular force generator (22) is configured to generate vibration upon receiving the first demand signal or the additional demand signal from the force generator controller, such that the first circular force generator (22) at the first position transmits the vibration to the interior of the passenger compartment of the vehicle, wherein the vibration simulates the operating mode in an internal combustion engine vehicle corresponding to the first demand signal or the additional demand signal.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising an acoustic simulator subsystem, the acoustic simulator subsystem comprising: Acoustic simulator (26); and An acoustic simulator controller (27) communicates data with at least one of a vehicle speed sensor and an acceleration device position sensor, wherein the acoustic simulator controller is programmed to generate an audio demand signal in response to data received from at least one of the vehicle speed sensor and the acceleration device position sensor and to transmit the audio demand signal to the acoustic simulator. The acoustic simulator is configured to generate audio output corresponding to the vehicle's operating status in response to the audio demand signal.

3. The system as described in claim 2, wherein, The acoustic simulator controller (27) and the force generator controller (24) are programmed to provide synchronized operation of the first circular force generator and the acoustic simulator.

4. The system as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein, The system includes a second force generator fixed at a second position, wherein, upon receiving the first demand signal, vibrations generated by the second force generator at the second position provide vibrations for the first body panel of the electric vehicle.

5. The system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The data source includes a vehicle speed sensor (15) and an acceleration device position sensor (21), and in the acceleration / deceleration mode, the additional demand signal includes data corresponding to the position of the acceleration device (20) and the speed of the vehicle. The additional demand signal is configured to control the first circular force generator and cause the first circular force generator to vibrate, the vibration simulating the speed of the electric vehicle (10) and simulating the demand on the internal combustion engine.

6. The system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The data source includes a vehicle speed sensor (15) and an acceleration device position sensor (21), and in the shift mode, the additional demand signal includes data corresponding to the position of the acceleration device (20) and the speed of the vehicle, the additional demand signal being configured to control the first circular force generator and cause the first circular force generator to vibrate, the vibration simulating gear changes of a vehicle driven by an internal combustion engine and an automatic transmission.

7. The system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The data source includes a vehicle speed sensor (15) and in the enhanced safety mode, the additional demand signal includes data corresponding to the speed of the vehicle, the additional demand signal being configured to control the first circular force generator and cause the first circular force generator to vibrate, the vibration indicating that the electric vehicle is operating at a speed exceeding a predetermined maximum speed.

8. The system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The system includes a second force generator fixed at a second position, wherein vibrations generated by the second force generator will cause movement of a first body panel of the electric vehicle; And a third force generator fixed at a third position, wherein vibrations generated by the third force generator will cause movement of a second body panel of the electric vehicle, wherein the first body panel is an engine hood and the second body panel is a trunk lid.

9. A method for simulating the sensation of an internal combustion engine during the operation of an electric vehicle, comprising: The electric vehicle (10) includes: Chassis (12); The electric motor (16) is supported by the chassis (12); An acceleration device (20) is configured to control the operation of the electric motor; At least one data source (15, 21) is capable of providing data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle; A first circular force generator (22) is fixed at a location to the chassis of the vehicle, the vehicle having a passenger compartment having an interior; A force generator controller (24) is programmed to receive data from the at least one data source and to use the data received from the data source to generate a first demand signal and at least one additional demand signal, wherein the first demand signal corresponds to an idle mode and the additional demand signal corresponds to any one of an acceleration / deceleration mode, a shift mode, or a safety enhancement mode, wherein the idle mode provides the sensation of the internal combustion engine system idling between 600 rpm and 5000 rpm as the position of the accelerator (20) changes, wherein the acceleration / deceleration mode provides the sensation of demand on the internal combustion engine when the vehicle accelerates, decelerates, is cruising, and / or has load changes, wherein the shift mode simulates an internal combustion engine vehicle with a transmission that undergoes various gear shifts during acceleration or deceleration of the internal combustion engine vehicle, and wherein the safety enhancement mode introduces unpleasant vibrations felt by all occupants through the passenger compartment based on unsafe conditions; The force generator controller is configured to select and generate the first demand signal or the additional demand signal in response to data received from the data source, and the force generator controller is configured to transmit the first demand signal or the additional demand signal to the first circular force generator. The force generator is configured to generate vibration upon receiving either the first demand signal or the additional demand signal from the force generator controller. The data source is used to monitor the operational changes of the electric vehicle and generate data representing the operational changes of the electric vehicle. The data representing the operational changes of the electric vehicle is transmitted to the force generator controller; The force generator controller receives the data representing changes in the operation of the electric vehicle, and the force generator controller interprets the received data to select a first demand signal or an additional demand signal. The first demand signal or additional demand signal selected from the force generator controller is transmitted to the first circular force generator; The force generator is used to generate vibrations and transmit the vibrations to the interior of the passenger compartment, wherein the vibrations simulate a pattern in an internal combustion engine vehicle that corresponds to the first demand signal or the additional demand signal.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The electric vehicle also includes an acoustic simulator subsystem, which comprises: Acoustic simulator (26); and An acoustic simulator controller (27) that communicates data with the data source and / or the force generator controller, the acoustic simulator controller being programmed to generate an audio demand signal in response to data received from the data source and / or the force generator controller, and the method further comprising the following steps: The audio demand signal is transmitted to the acoustic simulator; The acoustic simulator is used to generate an audio signal sufficient to simulate the sound of an internal combustion engine, which can be detected within the passenger compartment.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The force generator controller (24) and the acoustic simulator controller (27) are programmed to provide synchronized operation of the first circular force generator and the acoustic simulator, and further include the steps of: selecting the force generator controller or the acoustic simulator controller as the master controller, and using the master controller to manage data signals such that the first demand signal or the additional demand signal from the force generator controller to the first circular force generator will arrive at the first circular force generator at the same time as the first demand signal or the additional demand signal arrives from the acoustic simulator controller, thereby generating an audio signal sufficient to simulate the sound of an internal combustion engine and a vibration sufficient to simulate the vibration of an internal combustion engine, to simulate the operation of an internal combustion engine and the feeling of operating a vehicle controlled by an internal combustion engine in the passenger compartment.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein, The demand signal controls the first circular force generator and causes the first circular force generator to vibrate, the vibration simulating an internal combustion engine undergoing an increase in revolutions per minute.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein, The demand signal controls the first circular force generator and causes the first circular force generator to vibrate, the vibration simulating the internal combustion engine undergoing a decrease in revolutions per minute.

14. The method of claim 9, wherein, The additional demand signal controls the first circular force generator and causes the first circular force generator to vibrate in the shift mode, the vibration simulating gear changes in a vehicle driven by an internal combustion engine and an automatic transmission.

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