Powertrain Sound Control via Switching Frequency Modulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electrified vehicles lack the ability to intentionally adjust and control the sounds emitted from their powertrains, which can lead to unappealing noise profiles and lack of auditory feedback, especially in electric vehicles where sounds are often minimal or inconsistent.
Innovation Solution
A power characteristic control system that alters the switching frequency and pattern of power delivery to the electric machine within the powertrain, allowing for the emission of a predetermined sequence of acoustic tones, including audible and inaudible sounds, which can be perceived as a melody or song, by varying the power characteristics during pulse width modulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the switching frequency of power delivery is altered to produce different acoustic tones, then the auditory experience and sound control are improved, but the system complexity and control precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power characteristic control system performs multiple functions: it controls power delivery to the electric machine for propulsion while simultaneously controlling the switching frequency to generate desired acoustic tones. This multi-functionality allows the same system to serve both propulsion and sound generation purposes, reducing the need for separate sound generation hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The system alters the switching frequency parameter of the power delivery to the electric machine. By changing this parameter, the system can produce different acoustic tones corresponding to different musical notes. The control system adjusts the switching frequency based on the desired tone while maintaining appropriate power delivery for propulsion.
2Ease of operation
If the switching frequency is varied to emit predetermined acoustic tone sequences, then the auditory feedback and user experience are enhanced, but the precision of power delivery control may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The power characteristic control system continuously monitors the operating conditions of the electric machine and adjusts the switching frequency accordingly. The system receives input about the desired acoustic tone and coordinates this with the power delivery requirements, providing feedback control to maintain both propulsion performance and sound quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the switching frequency based on real-time operating conditions and desired acoustic output. Rather than using a fixed switching frequency, the system continuously adapts the frequency to match both the power delivery requirements and the desired acoustic tone sequence, maintaining precision in both propulsion and sound control.
3Ease of manufacture
If pulse width modulation switching pattern is changed to produce acoustic tones, then the sound emission control is improved, but the energy efficiency and power delivery may be impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic switching actions in the pulse width modulation to generate acoustic tones. By controlling the frequency and pattern of these periodic switching actions, the system can produce desired musical notes while maintaining efficient power delivery through optimized switching patterns that minimize energy losses.
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
Enables the intentional adjustment of sound emissions from electrified vehicle powertrains, providing a more appealing auditory experience and enhancing user perception through controlled sound sequences without compromising controllability, efficiency, or torque production.
Implementation Method 1
The electric machines can drive the electrified vehicles instead of, or in addition to, an internal combustion engine. The electric drivetrain can emit sounds when operating.
Data Source
AI summary
A sound control method includes altering at least one characteristic of power delivered within an electrified vehicle powertrain to cause at least one component of the electrified vehicle powertrain to emit different acoustic tones that follow a predetermined sequence. A sound control assembly includes a power characteristic control system that alters at least one characteristic of power delivered within an electrified vehicle powertrain to cause at least one component of the electrified vehicle powertrain to emit different acoustic tones that follow a predetermined sequence.