Forward Speaker Noise Cancellation in Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automotive engines generate high-frequency noise that is difficult to quiet using traditional noise countermeasures, affecting passengers differently based on their position, height, and posture within the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
An active noise cancellation system with speakers positioned forward of the steering wheel, connected to multiple microphones and a controller, generates noise-cancelling signals to acoustically cancel sinusoidal noise up to and beyond 180 Hz over a large spatial area, accommodating various passenger positions and postures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional noise countermeasures are used, then low-frequency noise can be reduced, but high-frequency noise remains difficult to quiet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the noise cancellation system into multiple independent speaker units positioned at different locations (forward and aft of steering wheel). Each speaker operates independently with its own controller, allowing targeted cancellation of high-frequency noise in specific zones while maintaining overall system effectiveness across varying passenger configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements zone-specific noise cancellation by positioning speakers to create localized cancellation zones. The forward speakers target noise in the driver and front passenger areas, while aft speakers handle rear seating areas. This local quality approach allows optimization for high-frequency noise in specific passenger positions without compromising other areas.
2Adaptability or versatility
If speakers are positioned to cancel noise for all passenger positions, then noise cancellation coverage increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each speaker unit universal by designing them to perform multiple functions: cancelling noise across a broad frequency range (including high frequencies beyond 180 Hz), operating independently or in coordination with other speakers, and adapting to various passenger positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic noise cancellation where each speaker controller continuously adjusts its output based on real-time feedback from microphones and changing engine conditions. The system adapts to varying rpm, passenger positions, and noise characteristics, maintaining effectiveness without requiring a fixed complex configuration for every possible scenario.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple speakers are used to cover large spatial area, then noise cancellation zone increases, but vehicle weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the noise cancellation function with the vehicle's existing audio system infrastructure. Speakers are integrated into the dashboard and door panels, sharing mounting structures and electrical systems with the entertainment system. This consolidation reduces overall weight compared to adding dedicated noise cancellation hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables speakers to serve dual purposes: providing both entertainment audio and active noise cancellation. The same speaker units that play music also generate anti-phase sound waves to cancel engine noise, eliminating the need for separate dedicated noise cancellation speakers and reducing total system weight.
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
The system creates a large noise cancellation zone spanning multiple seats, reducing spatial challenges and noise variance, enabling the production of lighter, more efficient vehicles with improved sound and performance characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
The speaker is configured, in response to a control signal, to generate a noise cancelling signal to acoustically cancel noise produced by operation of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
Each of the plurality of microphones are configured to convert sensed sound into one of a plurality of input signals
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods to cancel noise in a vehicle are disclosed. A first speaker is positioned forward of a steering wheel of a vehicle. The first speaker generates a first signal configured to acoustically cancel noise produced by operation of the vehicle. A second speaker is positioned forward of the steering wheel. The second speaker generates a second signal to acoustically cancel the noise produced by the operation of the vehicle. The first and the second speakers are capable of generating the first and the second signals independently of one another.