Engine Harmonic Audio Equalization for Realistic Vehicle Sound
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing engine sound enhancement systems for vehicles, particularly electric and hybrid vehicles, fail to provide a realistic and adjustable auditory experience that simulates engine operation conditions effectively, lacking in dynamic sound modification and source localization.
Innovation Solution
A method that processes engine harmonic enhancement audio signals by equalizing phase, amplitude, and delay for each loudspeaker, determining fundamental harmonic frequencies, and combining these signals with entertainment audio to create a realistic and localized sound experience, adjusting based on engine load and RPM changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If engine sound enhancement audio signals are provided without separate equalization for each loudspeaker, then the system complexity is reduced, but the spatial localization and realism of the simulated engine sound deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the audio signal processing into separate channels for each loudspeaker. Each loudspeaker receives individually equalized engine harmonic enhancement audio signals, allowing independent control of phase, amplitude, and delay parameters. This segmentation enables accurate spatial localization by treating each speaker as an independent sound source position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different equalization parameters (phase, amplitude, delay) to each loudspeaker based on its specific position and acoustic characteristics. Each loudspeaker's signal is locally optimized to create the perception that sound originates from the correct spatial location, enhancing realism without requiring complete system redesign.
2Speed
If engine harmonic enhancement gains are applied without smoothing, then the responsiveness to engine load changes is improved, but the auditory experience becomes less natural and more distracting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies smoothing to engine harmonic enhancement gains in advance, before the signals are transmitted to the loudspeakers. This preliminary processing prepares the signals to naturally follow engine load changes while eliminating abrupt transitions that would sound unnatural. The smoothing occurs proactively rather than reactively.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic smoothing that adapts to changing engine conditions. The smoothing parameter is adjusted based on engine load state - using faster attack times when load increases and slower decay times when load decreases. This dynamic approach maintains naturalness while preserving responsiveness to actual engine behavior changes.
3Illumination intensity
If the engine sound enhancement system provides loud stimulating sound inside the vehicle, then driver feedback and pedestrian awareness are improved, but the sound becomes annoyingly loud to persons outside the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio output by directing different signals to different loudspeakers positioned throughout the vehicle. Inside the vehicle cabin, multiple loudspeakers work together to create a loud, stimulating engine sound experience for the driver. Outside the vehicle, the same system architecture allows control of external speaker output levels to prevent annoying noise to pedestrians.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different output levels and equalization parameters to loudspeakers based on their location. Interior loudspeakers are optimized for high-volume driver feedback, while exterior loudspeakers use lower levels appropriate for pedestrian awareness. This local optimization allows the same system to serve multiple functions without compromise.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle engine harmonic enhancement system. A method for operating the system includes providing a first engine harmonic enhancement audio signal and equalizing the first engine harmonic enhancement audio signal separately for each of the plurality of loudspeakers to provide individually equalized loudspeaker engine harmonic enhancement audio signals. A vehicle audio system includes a plurality of loudspeakers, an entertainment audio system, and an engine harmonic enhancement system. A method includes equalizing an entertainment audio signal to provide an equalized entertainment audio signal; providing an engine harmonic enhancement audio signal; equalizing the engine harmonic enhancement audio signal separately from the entertainment audio signal to provide an equalized engine harmonic enhancement audio signal; and combining the equalized entertainment audio signal with the equalized engine harmonic enhancement audio signal.