EV Audio Emulation via Algorithmic ICE Sound Simulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicles lack sensory feedback, such as sound and vibration, which can make the driving experience less engaging for drivers accustomed to traditional internal-combustion-engine vehicles, leading to a perception of reduced performance and excitement.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that simulates the sensory experience of driving a performance internal-combustion-engine car by downloading algorithms into electric vehicle control units to mimic engine sounds, transmission noises, and cabin vibrations, using a graphical user interface and vibratory actuators to recreate the experience of specific ICE vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If algorithms are downloaded into EV control units to simulate ICE sounds and vibrations, then sensory feedback and driving engagement are improved, but device complexity and system configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of ICE vehicle audio and vibration characteristics by downloading algorithms that replicate engine sounds, transmission noises, and cabin vibrations. These digital copies are implemented through software algorithms stored in memory and executed by existing EV control units, allowing multiple ICE vehicle profiles to be simulated without adding physical hardware complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system makes existing EV control units multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their original EV control functions and additional ICE simulation functions. The same control unit that manages motor control can also execute audio simulation algorithms and control vibratory actuators, eliminating the need for dedicated simulation hardware and reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If vibratory actuators and audio systems are added to recreate ICE sensations, then driving experience is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical ICE systems with electronic and software-based solutions. Instead of adding physical engine components, the system uses audio speakers to generate sound waves and vibratory actuators to create tactile sensations. These electronic substitutes are controlled through software algorithms that simulate the acoustic and vibrational characteristics of ICE vehicles, simplifying the manufacturing process compared to mechanical replication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of existing EV components to create ICE-like sensations. Audio speakers are driven at specific frequencies and amplitudes to replicate engine sounds, while vibratory actuators are controlled to produce vibration patterns matching ICE cabin vibrations. These parameter adjustments allow existing components to serve dual purposes without requiring new manufacturing processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple ICE vehicle profiles are simulated through software algorithms, then adaptability and customization are improved, but processing requirements and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-processes and stores audio and vibration data for multiple ICE vehicle profiles in memory during system initialization or offline preparation. When a user selects an ICE vehicle profile, the pre-processed algorithms are quickly loaded and executed, reducing real-time computational requirements. This preliminary preparation allows the system to handle multiple complex vehicle profiles with minimal processing energy during actual operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a customizable and immersive sensory experience for electric vehicle drivers, replicating the audio and vibrational cues of performance internal-combustion-engine cars, enhancing the driving experience and addressing the lack of feedback in electric vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
Vibration may also be simulated by a subwoofer that is capable of producing nondirectional vibratory bass sounds
Implementation Method 2
A subwoofer/vibratory actuator may be placed anywhere in the vehicle to provide a vibratory experience equally to any passenger in the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus enables modifying the electronic controls of EVs to mimic the sensory experience of driving a performance ICE car. The method and apparatus creates a “virtual cockpit” with audio enhancement with sounds that mimic those of an ICE car. By downloading and implementing the method and apparatus, one may replicate, for example, the vehicle dynamics, performance horsepower sound, cabin sound, subtle cabin vibrations, exterior wind sound, and audio cues that may be controlled via a graphical user interface. These simulations replicate the various sounds of an ICE vehicle to mimic the audio experience of driving an ICE performance car of choice.