Adaptive Engine Start Profile Control for Vehicle Noise Context
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle control systems lack the ability to automatically select between 'sporty' and 'refined' engine start profiles based on driving conditions, such as time of day, which may not align with the driver's preferences or ambient noise levels, potentially causing discomfort or noise pollution.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control unit that detects a start demand and automatically selects between a 'sporty' and 'refined' engine start profile depending on monitored driving conditions, using a selection module that considers time of day, and incorporates a noise control module to accentuate or suppress engine noise through supplementary noise sources like the infotainment system, active exhaust system, and active intake system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sporty engine start profile is selected to maximize engine noise and create engine flare, then driver excitement and sporty character are improved, but noise pollution and driver discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the engine start profile based on real-time monitoring of driving conditions, ambient noise levels, and vehicle state. The control unit automatically transitions between sporty and refined profiles without manual intervention, making the engine character adaptable rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors ambient noise levels and driving conditions, using this feedback to automatically select the appropriate engine start profile. When ambient noise exceeds thresholds or refined conditions are detected, the system suppresses engine flare; otherwise, it allows sporty profiles.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a refined engine start profile is selected to suppress engine noise, then noise pollution and driver comfort are improved, but driver excitement and sporty character are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between refined and sporty profiles based on changing driving conditions. The refined profile is not permanent but temporarily activated when conditions warrant noise suppression, allowing the engine character to remain versatile and adaptable.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit changes key engine parameters such as idle speed target, throttle position, and ignition timing to suppress engine flare when refined profile is selected. These parameter adjustments are temporary and reversible, allowing full sporty character when conditions permit.
3Ease of operation
If manual selection between sporty and refined profiles is provided, then driver preference and customization are improved, but system complexity and user burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic profile selection without requiring manual user input. The control unit monitors driving conditions and autonomously determines the appropriate engine start profile, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual selection interface is removed from the system, extracting the decision-making function from the user and transferring it to the automated control unit. This simplifies the user interface while maintaining adaptability through automated sensing and control.
4Adaptability or versatility
If engine flare is increased to create sporty character, then driver excitement is improved, but driver discomfort and noise pollution worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit monitors driving conditions and ambient context in real-time, using this feedback to determine when engine flare is appropriate. The system suppresses flare when detected conditions indicate potential driver discomfort or noise pollution concerns, while allowing flare when conditions are favorable.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a vehicle control unit (20). The vehicle control unit (20) comprises an input (26) for detecting a start demand and a driving condition. The vehicle control module also comprises a control module (28) arranged to control an engine start attribute according to a first profile (34) and a second profile (36). The vehicle control module (20) also comprises a selection module (30) arranged to select between the first and second profiles (34, 36) based on detecting a predetermined driving condition, in response to detecting a start demand.