Vehicle Wiper Noise Cancellation Using Feedforward Cabin Acoustics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing noise cancellation systems for vehicle wiper systems are not accurately adapted to wiper noise and lack reactivity, leading to increased costs due to the use of materials and mechanisms that are not specifically designed for wiper noise reduction.
Innovation Solution
A noise cancellation method using feedforward data and models of wiper noise propagation, combined with sensors collocated with the wiper system and cabin sensors, to generate a noise cancellation control signal for improved reactivity and accuracy, potentially utilizing machine learning for model updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If materials and mechanisms are used to avoid wiper noise, then noise reduction is achieved, but the cost of the wiper system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical noise reduction approaches with an acoustic field-based active noise cancellation system. Instead of modifying the wiper system's mechanical components to reduce noise, the invention uses speakers to generate anti-phase acoustic waves that cancel the noise in the air, thereby reducing the cost associated with specialized mechanical materials and mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary acoustic field as a mediator between the noise source and the cabin environment. The noise cancellation system generates sound waves that interact with the wiper noise in the air, creating destructive interference patterns that reduce the perceived noise without requiring direct modification of the wiper system itself.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a general speaker system is used for noise cancellation, then noise reduction is achieved, but the reactivity and accuracy for wiper noise specifically is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the noise cancellation approach by specifically identifying and targeting wiper noise as a distinct noise source. The system uses multiple sensors positioned at different locations to specifically detect wiper noise characteristics, and the processing unit generates cancellation signals tailored to this specific noise source, improving both accuracy and reactivity compared to general noise cancellation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary detection and analysis of wiper noise characteristics using multiple sensors before generating the cancellation signal. The system continuously monitors and identifies wiper noise patterns, allowing it to react quickly and accurately when wiper noise occurs, rather than relying on general noise detection that lags behind specific noise events.
3Measurement precision
If acoustic sensors are used to detect wiper noise, then noise detection accuracy is improved, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing multi-functional sensors serve dual purposes: they continue their primary functions while also detecting wiper noise characteristics. For example, existing microphones intended for voice recognition or other cabin monitoring functions are also utilized for wiper noise detection, eliminating the need for dedicated acoustic sensors and reducing overall system complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables existing sensors in the vehicle to serve themselves by detecting and processing wiper noise in addition to their primary functions. The processing unit analyzes signals from existing sensors to identify wiper noise patterns, allowing the sensor system to self-extend its functionality without requiring additional hardware components.
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
Enhances the accuracy and reactivity of noise cancellation by specifically targeting wiper noise, reducing the need for costly acoustic sensors and improving driving comfort and safety.
Implementation Method 1
generating an acoustic signal to cancel the wiper noise
Data Source
AI summary
A method of cancelling noise produced in a cabin of a vehicle by a wiper system. The method is implemented by a noise cancellation device and includes receiving feedforward data related to wiper noise. Such feedforward data can be issued from sensors collocated with elements of the wiper system, or from an ECU controlling motor operation of the wiper system. The method further includes generating a noise cancellation control signal based on the feedforward data and based on a model of propagation of the wiper noise in the cabin and transmitting the noise cancellation control signal to a speaker system of the vehicle.