Redundant Actuator Control Using Cabin Noise Masking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The noise generated during function checks of redundant actuators in motor vehicles disrupts passenger comfort and can be perceived as a malfunction, especially in electric vehicles where engine noise is absent.
Innovation Solution
A method where the activation of a redundant actuator is coordinated based on the noise level in the passenger compartment, ensuring that the actuator is activated only when the noise level is high enough to mask its operating noise, thereby minimizing perceived irritation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If function checks of redundant actuators are performed at regular intervals, then reliability of the actuator system is improved, but noise level in the passenger compartment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator activation is made dynamic by continuously monitoring the noise level in the passenger compartment and adjusting the timing of function checks accordingly. The actuator is activated only when the measured noise level exceeds a predetermined threshold, transforming a static periodic check into a dynamic condition-based check that adapts to current acoustic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
A feedback mechanism is implemented where a microphone continuously measures the noise level in the passenger compartment and feeds this information back to the control device. The control device uses this feedback signal to determine the appropriate timing for actuator activation, creating a closed-loop control system that balances reliability checking with passenger comfort.
2Reliability
If function checks are performed more frequently, then reliability is improved, but passenger comfort deteriorates due to increased noise exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of actuator activation from a fixed time-based interval to a noise-level-based condition. By monitoring the acoustic environment and activating the actuator only when noise thresholds are exceeded, the system effectively changes the activation parameters dynamically, allowing more frequent checks when necessary without compromising passenger comfort during quiet periods.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for the control of the activation of an electrically controllable actuator in a motor vehicle, in particular for the purpose of checking its operational reliability, and an electronic control device for carrying out this method. An electrically controllable first actuator, an electrically controllable second, redundant, actuator, and at least one electronic control device for the electrical actuation of the actuators, are provided. An activation of the second actuator by the electronic control device is carried out as a function of signal information which represents a noise level prevailing in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.