TW202004738A - Electric vehicle and method for playing, generating associated audio signals - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to methods, devices, and systems for playing audio signals associated with an electric vehicle. The method includes, for example, (1) determining a speed of the electric vehicle; (2) receiving, from a memory, a plurality of sound frequency characteristics corresponding to the determined speed of the electric vehicle; and (3) generating an audio signal segment corresponding to the received sound frequency characteristics by a speaker of the electric vehicle. The sound frequency characteristics include a plurality of segments. Each of the segments includes an amplitude of a number of frequency characteristics in a sound produced by a powertrain assembly (e.g., an electric motor) in a speed range.

Description

Audio signal generating system and method

The technology generally relates to a method and system for generating audio signals related to an electric motor of an electric vehicle. Specifically, the present technology relates to a system for simulating the sound of an electric motor (electric motor) in a speed range, and playing a similar sound when the electric vehicle operates in the speed range to remind The existence of other people's electric vehicles.

Generally speaking, electric motors are quieter than traditional internal combustion engines during operation, especially when the electric motors are just starting to run (for example, when the rotational speed is low). However, under safety considerations, some countries/jurisdictions may require electric vehicles to provide certain sounds as warnings or instructions for their existence. Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a device, system, and method that meet the above needs.

The following summary of the invention is provided for the convenience of the reader and identifies several representative embodiments of the disclosed technology. Generally speaking, the present technology provides an improved system and method for generating an electric motor (or powertrain) with an electric vehicle, which may have an electric motor, a transmission belt, a transmission gear set or other driven by an electric motor Appropriate device) related audio signals. This technology is a way to generate and play sounds that closely mimic electric vehicles at different speeds. In one embodiment, the sound emitted by the electric motor of the electric vehicle is sampled within a sampling range that is loud enough to be detected (for example, the electric vehicle moves at 15 to 30 kilometers per hour (KPH)). The sampled sound is analyzed and measured to identify specific frequency characteristics (for example, to identify specific frequencies corresponding to significant sound waves). Based on the identified frequency characteristics, a set of audio signals corresponding to a larger target range (for example, an electric vehicle moving at 0 kilometers per hour to its maximum speed) is synthesized. With this configuration, when the electric vehicle operates at any speed within the target range, the technology can generate audio signals that provide continuous, smooth, and natural sound to the operator or other bystanders. This technology also allows users to customize the sound of electric vehicles to generate various themes, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

Another aspect of the technology includes providing a method for analyzing and measuring the sound (tire sound, brake, etc.) of an electric motor or other device on a vehicle. In the process of analysis, this technology can identify multiple main characteristic frequencies and their harmonics from the measured sound. In some embodiments, a plot of the amplitude of the identified frequency versus the speed of the vehicle is drawn within the audible speed range. Subsequently, the amplitude-speed curve of the identified frequency can be interpolated or otherwise synthesized into a speed range where the sound of the vehicle is usually inaudible. Waveforms are generated from interpolated or measured frequency characteristics, which represent the sound of the vehicle at any speed (0 to maximum speed). The technology can extrapolate, interpolate or otherwise fit the identified frequency characteristic curve to generate a processed frequency characteristic curve in any range (for example, within the operable range of the electric motor), including no Corresponding to measure the range of sound.

During the operation of the vehicle, the synthesized waveform is played through the speaker so that the onlookers can hear the vehicle approaching. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the waveform is further processed with a “fade in” or “fade out” function, so that the artificial sound sounds natural (at a lower speed) and is integrated into the load Realistic sound (at higher speed).

The technology also provides a method for playing smooth, continuous sounds corresponding to electric motors or other suitable devices. For example, the synthesized sound file can be divided into multiple segments or fragments. In one embodiment, each of the segments corresponds to a specific speed (for example, one segment or segment per speed unit, as shown in FIG. 6). For example, one segment corresponds to a speed of 11 kilometers per hour, another segment corresponds to a speed of 12 kilometers per hour, and so on. Other correspondence methods are of course possible, for example: one segment corresponds to a range of 2 to 4 kilometers per hour, another segment corresponds to a range of 4 to 6 kilometers per hour, and so on. The present technology plays the section or segment according to the current condition of the electric vehicle (for example, the current moving speed). To enhance the user experience of the sound actually produced, the clips are played in a way that minimizes discontinuity. In one embodiment, as described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9, the clips play forward in acceleration, play backward in deceleration, and play forward and reverse in constant speed.

In some embodiments, the disclosed technology can generate various types of sounds based on sounds from electric motors to provide a customized user experience. For example, the requested technology can measure the sound from the electric motor, analyze the sound at multiple fundamental frequencies, and identify the characteristics of the measured sound. The disclosed technique can then adjust the characteristics of the sound by increasing or decreasing the amplitude of the sound wave at the fundamental frequency.

In some embodiments, the disclosed technology can generate or simulate sound based on the user's operation of the electric motor. For example, when a user operates an electric motor, the requested technology can adjust the sound of the electric motor to make it sound like a super sports car, sports car, train, truck, other type of vehicle or device, and so on.

In some embodiments, the disclosed technology allows the user to customize the sound of the electric motor, thereby enhancing the user experience and operation pleasure. For example, the user can make the electric motor sound like a whirring spaceship (for example to simulate something from the future). With this configuration, the disclosed technology can enhance the user experience when operating the electric motor. In some embodiments, the disclosed technology can generate analog sounds corresponding to user actions. In these embodiments, when the user requests the electric motor to increase its output power, the requested technology may correspondingly increase the volume of the simulated sound.

In some embodiments, the sound from the electric motor or other devices can be measured, analyzed, and played in an instant manner. In these embodiments, for example, the disclosed technique can first measure/analyze the sound of the electric motor, and then generate the simulated sound in a short time. In some embodiments, the requested technology can continuously or periodically monitor the sound of the electric motor and adjust the simulated sound accordingly.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure may be implemented as a method for playing audio signals related to electric vehicles. For example, the method may include: (1) determining the speed of the electric vehicle; (2) receiving a plurality of sound frequency characteristics corresponding to the determined speed of the electric vehicle from the memory; (3) generating the corresponding Audio signal fragments of the received sound frequency characteristics; and (4) The audio signal fragments are played by the speakers of the electric vehicle. The frequency characteristics of sound may include a plurality of segments, and each of the segments may include amplitudes of multiple frequency features in the sound generated by the powertrain within a speed range.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure may be implemented as an electric vehicle. For example, the electric vehicle may include: (1) a processor; (2) a powertrain coupled to the processor; (3) a memory coupled to the processor, which is configured to store a plurality corresponding to the electric vehicle Audio frequency characteristics; and (4) speakers configured to play audio signal segments. The frequency characteristics of sound may include a plurality of segments, and each of the segments may include amplitudes of multiple frequency features in the sound generated by the powertrain within a speed range. The processor is configured to generate audio signal segments based on the moving speed and sound frequency characteristics of the electric vehicle.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure may be implemented as a system that can emit vehicle sounds for pedestrians (VSP) (such as an acoustic vehicle alerting system) or a proximity vehicle sounding system (approaching vehicle audible systems), abbreviated as AVAS). In these embodiments, when the electric vehicle is running, the system may generate sound based on the characteristics of the powertrain of the electric vehicle. This system can improve pedestrian safety by notifying pedestrians of the presence of electric vehicles.

The device, system and method according to the embodiments of the present technology may include any one of the above elements, or any combination of the above elements. The embodiments herein and combinations of various elements are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

10‧‧‧Operator

11‧‧‧ pedestrian

12‧‧‧Vehicle

100‧‧‧System

101‧‧‧ processor

103‧‧‧Memory

105‧‧‧Electric motor

107‧‧‧Battery

109‧‧‧Sensor

111‧‧‧Voice memory

113‧‧‧Sound processing unit

115‧‧‧Communication components

117‧‧‧speaker

1000‧‧‧Method

1001~1007‧‧‧ block

1100‧‧‧Method

1101~1105‧‧‧ block

Figure 1 shows a block diagram of a system configured in accordance with a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology.

Figures 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams showing analyzed frequency characteristics within a sampling range according to representative embodiments of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing frequency characteristics generated within a target range according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a synthesized waveform based on the generated frequency characteristics according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an adjusted synthesized waveform according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a segment of the adjusted synthesized waveform shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7, FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are schematic diagrams of the method for playing the clip shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 illustrate flowcharts of implementations of the disclosed technology.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of a system 100 configured according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology. In some embodiments, the system 100 may be an electric vehicle, such as an electric locomotive, or a system attached to and connected to the electric vehicle. The system 100 includes a processor 101, a memory 103 coupled to the processor 101, an electric motor 105 configured to move the system 100 (or a powertrain with an electric motor and other transmission elements/devices such as drive belts, chains, gear sets, etc. ), a battery 107 configured to power the electric motor 105, one or more sensors 109, and a communication component 115. The processor 101 can control other components within the system 100. The memory 103 can store commands, signals, or other information about the system 100. The battery 107 supplies power to the electric motor 105 so that the electric motor 105 can move the system 100. The sensor 109 is configured to measure and/or monitor the components and operating characteristics of the system 100. In some embodiments, the sensor 109 may include: an audio sensor, a fluid pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a speed sensor, a position sensor, a gyroscope, a torque sensor, and the like. The communication component 115 is configured to communicate with other devices or systems (eg, a user's smartphone, a server that provides services to the system 100, a battery exchange station/kiosk, a vehicle, etc.) via one or more wireless connections. The wireless connection is, for example, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), or a personal area network (PAN).

The system further includes a sound memory 111, a sound processing unit 113, and a speaker 117. The sound memory 111 is configured to store digital audio signals or sound information related to the system 100. The sound processing unit 113 is configured to adjust the sound related to the system 100. The speaker 117 is configured to play sounds or audio signals related to the system 100 to the driver/passenger of the operator 10, pedestrian 11, and/or vehicle 12. In some embodiments, the speaker 117 may be set to play sound in a specific direction (e.g., the direction in which the system 100 moves).

In some embodiments, the sensor 109 includes a speedometer (or a GPS sensor) that detects the speed of the system 100. The measured speed is transmitted to the processor 101, and the processor 101 is programmed to take out the sound clip (for example, a digital audio file) corresponding to the speed stored in the memory 103 or the sound memory 111, and provide the sound clip To the sound processing part 113, it adjusts the sound clip to play through the speaker 117. As discussed in further detail below, depending on the computing power of the system 100, the synthesized vehicle sound (ie, the sound clip) can be pre-loaded into the sound memory 111 by the analysis performed in the remote laboratory, or by the system itself The processing equipment to calculate/decide.

To generate sound clips/sound files (for example, digital audio wav files) that represent the sound of the system 100 within its operating speed range, the actual sound of the system is recorded within a speed range where it can be heard. In one embodiment, the sound is recorded in the speed range at which the system 100 generates a clearly audible signal that can be sensed by the microphone (for example, a speed range of 15 to 30 kilometers per hour). In some embodiments, the sampling range may be the operating range of the electric motor 105 (eg, 1000 to 3000 revolutions per minute (rpm)).

The sound within the sampling range of the system 100 is stored in the digital memory and analyzed in the frequency domain to identify the dominant frequency of the electric motor and the harmonics that give the electric motor its characteristic sound. The amplitude of the frequency component usually changes with the speed of the vehicle. For example, as shown in Figure 2A, the fundamental frequency measured by an electric motor running at 30 kilometers per hour is about 233 Hz, and significant octave frequencies (octaves, octaves, etc.) are measured at 466, 932, 1864 and 3729 Hz. (Overtones), and partial harmonics were measured at 622, 739, 830, 1108, 1661, 2217, 2489, 2960, and 3322 Hz. In other embodiments, depending on factors such as the characteristics of the electric motor, the sound of the electric motor can be measured at multiple sets of fundamental frequencies.

The frequency of the detected signal decreases as the speed or number of revolutions per minute decreases. The frequency of the detected component is plotted against the speed of the vehicle (or the number of revolutions per minute of the electric motor) to generate a series of curves as shown in Figure 2A and Figure 3. Based on the identified frequency characteristic map, the above curve is analyzed to predict the frequency components in the range that the sound generated by the system in actual use (for example, on the street) is usually inaudible. For example, the range of speeds at which the system 100 operates (eg, from still to maximum speed) may determine the target range for predicting sound.

In some embodiments, the frequency versus speed graph is analyzed by a curve fitting method (for example, interpolation, spline interpolation, polynomial fitting, etc.) to predict the speed at which the sound cannot be heard during use The frequency component of the electric motor and its harmonic and overtones. Once the curve is adapted to the entire speed range of the system 100, a sound file such as a WAVE file is created for the entire speed range. Such files can be relatively short, allowing them to be stored in the inexpensive memory of the system 100. The synthesized WAVE file can then be used to generate the sound played by the speaker 117.

In some embodiments, the sound processing component 113 may further adjust and synthesize the audio signal set for a customized user experience. For example, the sound processing unit 113 may fade in the audio signal group with a parabolic function and/or fade out the audio signal group with a linear function (as shown in FIG. 5).

In some embodiments, the sound file is divided into multiple segments. For example, each of the segments may correspond to a specific speed range (for example, 1 km per hour). The fragments can be generated and stored in the sound memory 111 for further use. For example, the processor 101 may be programmed to play the stored segment corresponding to the current movement speed of the system 100.

In some embodiments, the stored clips can be played forward or backward to provide natural sound to the user. In some embodiments, the playback direction of the stored clip is determined according to the change of the moving speed (for example, acceleration or deceleration). The details of these embodiments are discussed below with reference to FIGS. 7-9.

In some embodiments, the creation of a sound file (that is, the sound signal segment) representing the sound of the system 100 (for example, a vehicle) is completed in the laboratory based on the recording of the vehicle. The sound file is then stored in the vehicle during manufacturing. In other embodiments, the sound file of the vehicle may be included in the software update of the existing vehicle through a wired or wireless connection (for example, through a smartphone connected to the vehicle). In still other embodiments, depending on the processing power available on the vehicle (eg, the processing power of the processor 101 shown in FIG. 1), a sound file can be generated on the vehicle. For example, the vehicle may include a microphone configured to detect the sound produced when the user is instructed to drive at a specific speed. The sound is recorded, stored in memory, and analyzed by the signal processor on the vehicle to produce sound files in a manner similar to what is done in the laboratory. The generated clip can then be stored in the sound memory 111, and the speaker 117 can then play the clip in the manner described above. In some embodiments, the fragments can be stored as the firmware of the system 100.

Figures 2A and 2B are schematic diagrams showing analyzed frequency characteristics within a sampling range according to representative embodiments of the disclosed technology. In Figure 2A, three different types of frequencies are identified within a sampling range of 15 to 30 kilometers per hour.

The most significant frequencies can be identified as the fundamental frequency and its overtones and semi-harmonics, and high frequency components can also be identified, but the high frequency components are ignored in one embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the fundamental frequency is the most significant frequency within the sampling range (for example, the largest amplitude of all frequencies). As shown in Figure 2A, at a speed of 30 kilometers per hour, the fundamental frequency is about 233 Hz.

The "overtone" category refers to sound waves that can form an overtone of the fundamental frequency (for example: any vibration whose frequency is an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency, excluding the fundamental frequency). In the illustrated embodiment, the overtone range can be from 466 to 3729 Hz.

The "semi-harmonic" category refers to sound waves that can form harmonics of the fundamental frequency (for example: any vibration whose frequency is an integer multiple of the fundamental frequency, including the fundamental frequency). In the illustrated embodiment, the semi-harmonic range can be from 6222 to 3322 Hz.

As shown in Figure 2A, the frequency characteristic is drawn or analyzed as a frequency characteristic curve. The identified frequency characteristics shown in Figure 2A are used to generate frequency characteristics within the speed range that the vehicle normally cannot hear. In this way, the frequency characteristics generated within the target range can retain the main characteristics of the original sound source (such as the electric motor 105). Therefore, the generated frequency characteristics can be used to simulate the sound produced by the original sound source.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing frequency characteristics generated within a target range according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology. In the illustrated embodiment, the target range is a speed range of 0 to 30 kilometers per hour. As shown in the figure, the generated frequency characteristic is a type of frequency characteristic curve. The curve shown in Figure 3 can be generated from the curve in Figure 2A through extrapolation, interpolation, curve fitting, and/or other suitable algorithms. In some embodiments, the generated frequency characteristics may be formed based on empirical research (eg, research based on user experience). As shown in the figure, the range covered by the curve generated in Figure 3 (for example, 0 to 30 kilometers per hour) is larger than the curve shown in Figure 2A (for example, 15 to 30 kilometers per hour). Therefore, the curve generated in FIG. 3 can be used to generate sound that sounds like the original sound source (for example, the sound of the powertrain of the vehicle integrated with the system 100) within the target range larger than the sampling range.

Once the frequency versus speed curve of the vehicle's entire expected operating speed is determined, a sound file is thus generated. Depending on the required fidelity, the speakers to be used, and other audio engineering factors, the sound file can be quite short. In one embodiment, a sound file of 1.8 seconds is sufficient to store the sound representing the electric locomotive in the speed range of 0 to 30 kilometers per hour. The sound file reproduces the frequency of different frequency components at each speed.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a synthesized waveform based on the generated frequency characteristics according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology. The synthesized waveform can be generated by synthesizing or combining sound waves of multiple frequency categories (for example, the aforementioned "fundamental frequency", "overtone", and "semi-harmonic" categories).

In the illustrated embodiment, the synthesized waveform is generated by combining the waves from the "overtone" and "semi-harmonic" categories with equal weights in amplitude (for example, half for each category). In other embodiments, depending on multiple factors such as providing different audio themes to the user, synthetic waveforms can be generated by combining different categories in different proportions.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an adjusted synthesized waveform according to a representative embodiment of the disclosed technology. In some embodiments, the synthesized waveform in Figure 4 can be further adjusted during playback. The amplitude of the envelope of the synthesized waveform corresponds to the volume of the speaker when playing audio signals. In the illustrated embodiment, the synthesized waveform can be “fade in” at a first speed range of 0 to 14 kilometers per hour based on a parabolic function, a flat response of about 14.5 to 23.5 kilometers per hour and a flat response of 23.5 hours per hour The amplitude of the waveform to 30 km is linearly attenuated to adjust. For example, this produces a naturally audible vehicle that mimics how the vehicle's sound increases with increasing speed, and then reduces the contribution of the synthesized sound as the actual sound of the vehicle is heard. The increasing waveform provides smooth sound for users or bystanders. In the second speed range (for example, 14.5 to 23.5 kilometers per hour), the synthesized waveform can be played at maximum volume. In the third speed range (for example, 23.5 to 30 kilometers per hour), as the natural sound of the vehicle increases with speed, the synthesized waveform can be adjusted by "fade out" based on a linear function. Therefore, in order to provide a smooth and natural user audio experience, the technology can fade out the waveform in the third speed range. In other embodiments, the synthesized waveform can be adjusted by other suitable functions. The first, second and third speed ranges may vary based on the volume of the sound produced by the vehicle itself. For example, the sound produced by a vehicle with a quieter powertrain is only large enough to allow pedestrians to notice when the vehicle speed exceeds 60 kilometers per hour, then the first, second and third speed ranges can be set to speed 0 to 20 kilometers, 20 to 40 kilometers, and 40 to 60 kilometers.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a segment of the adjusted synthesized waveform shown in FIG. 5. The synthesized waveform can be divided into multiple audio signal segments. In one embodiment, a speed difference of 1 km per hour corresponds to a 60-ms segment of the audio file. As shown in the figure, the synthesized waveform is divided into segments based on the moving speed of the system or electric vehicle (for example, one segment per speed unit). The segment corresponding to the detected vehicle speed is played through the speaker on the vehicle.

FIG. 7, FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are schematic diagrams of the method for playing the clip shown in FIG. 6. Depending on the speed of the vehicle, the disclosed technique can play the clip in the normal (eg forward) direction/form or in reverse.

In one embodiment, the speed of the vehicle is detected at a time rate equal to the length of the audio file (for example, every 60 milliseconds). If the speed of the vehicle increases, the corresponding audio clip is played forward. If the detected vehicle speed decreases, the corresponding audio clip is played in reverse. In one embodiment, in order to avoid obvious audio discontinuities when the vehicle maintains a constant speed, audio clips are played forward and backward, and vice versa.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, when the electric vehicle moves at a constant speed, the audio clip may be played in the forward direction first and then in the reverse direction (for example, in the reverse direction). The process then repeats as long as the vehicle maintains the same speed. This configuration provides a smooth waveform (for example, compared to the playback shown in Figure 7 from the beginning to the end of the clip and then start over).

In some embodiments, when the electric vehicle accelerates, all the clips can be played in the normal form (for example, as shown in FIG. 9, the speed is increased from 24 kilometers per hour to 26 kilometers. Clip, and then play the clip corresponding to 25 kilometers per hour in the forward direction, and so on). In some embodiments, when the electric vehicle decelerates, the next segment can be played in reverse (for example, as shown in Figure 9, the speed drops from 26 kilometers per hour to 24 kilometers, and the segment corresponding to 26 kilometers per hour is played in reverse, Then, the clip corresponding to 25 kilometers per hour is played in reverse, and so on. With this configuration, the disclosed technology can play the overall waveform in a smooth and continuous manner to enhance the user experience.

FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of the method 1000, which is used to generate audio signals related to the electric motor of the electric vehicle (for example, to simulate the sound when operating the electric motor). In some embodiments, the method 1000 may be implemented in the system of the present disclosure (for example, the system 100). In some embodiments, the method 1000 may be implemented in an electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the method 1000 can be used to configure a vehicle sound system. For example, the vehicle sound system may include a processor and a sound memory/storage device coupled to the processor. In these embodiments, the method 1000 may generate audio clips based on analysis (eg, the embodiments discussed herein with reference to FIGS. 1 to 2B) and store them in the sound memory. Once completed, the audio clip stored in the sound memory can be used (for example, played by the speaker of the vehicle sound system).

As shown in FIG. 10, the method 1000 at block 1001 first analyzes the first set of audio information about the electric motor to identify multiple frequency characteristics of the audio information in the first range. In some embodiments, the first set of audio information can be measured by an audio sensor (for example, a microphone). In some embodiments, the frequency characteristics include sound waves at many frequencies (e.g., the embodiments discussed above with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B). In some embodiments, the first range may be a sampling range (for example, a sampling range determined by a vehicle speed or an electric motor speed). In some embodiments, the frequency characteristic may be in the form of a frequency characteristic curve/straight line. In some embodiments, the frequency characteristics may include the amplitude of the fundamental frequency, harmonics, and harmonics at different vehicle speeds. In some embodiments, the frequency characteristics may include a high frequency ranging from about 9460 to 10540 Hz, an overtone frequency ranging from about 466 to 3729 Hz, a harmonic frequency ranging from about 622 to 3322 Hz, and a fundamental frequency of about 233 Hz. In some embodiments, the frequency characteristic may be determined based on at least one characteristic of the speaker of the motorized vehicle (for example, so that the corresponding audio clip can be played well by the speaker).

At block 1003, the method 1000 then generates a corresponding set of frequency features in the second range based on the plurality of frequency features identified in the first range. In some embodiments, the second range may be a vehicle speed range, and the second range (for example, 0 to 30 kilometers per hour) is greater than the first range (for example, 15 to 30 kilometers per hour). At block 1005, the method 1000 then generates a set of audio signal fragments corresponding to different vehicle speeds in the second range. In some embodiments, the audio signal segment may be the segment discussed above with reference to FIG. 6 (for example, a set of sound waves corresponding to the vehicle speed range). At block 1005, the method 1000 then stores the set of audio signal fragments in the sound memory of the processor coupled to the electric motor. The processor is configured to control or communicate with the electric motor. In some embodiments, the processor may be an engine control unit. Once the audio signal segment is stored in the sound memory, it can be played when the operator operates the electric vehicle (for example, to simulate the sound of an electric motor).

In some embodiments, the method 1000 may further include (1) determining the first range to be measured; and (2) operating the electric vehicle within the first range. The first range may correspond to a first vehicle speed range between the first speed of the electric vehicle (for example, 15 kilometers per hour) and the second speed of the electric vehicle (for example, 30 kilometers per hour). Method 1000 may also include (1) measuring the audio signal generated by the electric motor when the electric motor is operating in the first range; and (2) identifying multiple frequency characteristics based on the measured audio signal. In some embodiments, the second range may correspond to a second range between the third speed of the electric vehicle (for example, 0 kilometers per hour) and the second speed of the electric vehicle (for example, 30 kilometers per hour) Vehicle speed range.

In some embodiments, the method 1000 may include adjusting the corresponding set of frequency features in the second range by fading in the corresponding set of frequency features in the "fade in" or "fade out" range. The implementation of the "fade in" and "fade out" features was discussed above with reference to the sound processing unit 113 and FIG. 5.

FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of a method 1100. The method 1100 is used to play audio signals related to electric vehicles (for example, to simulate the sound of a powertrain, specifically, the sound of an electric motor). In some embodiments, the method 1100 may be implemented in the system of the present disclosure (for example, the system 100). In some embodiments, the method 1100 may be implemented in an electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the method 1100 may be used to configure a vehicle sound system. For example, the vehicle sound system may include a processor and a sound memory/storage device coupled to the processor. In these embodiments, the method 1100 may play pre-stored audio clips through speakers of the vehicle sound system.

At block 1101, the method 1100 first determines the speed of the electric vehicle. In some embodiments, the speed measurement can be done by a speed sensor or a speedometer. At block 1103, the method 1100 then receives an audio signal segment corresponding to the determined vehicle speed from a memory (such as the sound memory discussed herein). The audio signal segment is generated from a plurality of sound frequency characteristics corresponding to the determined vehicle speed. Specifically, the audio signal segment is generated by a plurality of sound frequency characteristics, which correspond to the sound generated by the powertrain within a speed range. In some embodiments, the sound frequency characteristic may include a plurality of segments, and each of the segments may include electric motor speeds generated in different speeds within a speed range (such as a speed range in which the electric vehicle can run) The amplitude of multiple frequency characteristics of sound. The generation of audio signal fragments can refer to the embodiments described in FIGS. 1 to 4. At block 1105, the method 1100 then plays the audio signal segment corresponding to the frequency characteristics of the received sound using the speaker of the motorized vehicle.

In some embodiments, the method 1100 may adjust the amplitude of the audio signal segment based on the determined speed of the electric vehicle. In other words, the speaker can play different audio clips at different vehicle speeds. For example, as described in the embodiment corresponding to FIG. 5, when the speed of the electric vehicle increases from the first speed range to the second speed range and the third speed range, the speaker not only plays the difference corresponding to the speed of different vehicles For audio clips, the volume/amplitude of the speaker is also adjusted from increasing (for example, based on a parabolic function fade-in) to the maximum volume, and then decreasing (for example, based on a linear function fade-out), and vice versa. In some embodiments, the method 1100 can play audio clips in many ways. For example, in some implementations, the method 1100 can play audio clips forward/reverse. In some embodiments, when the electric vehicle accelerates, the method 1100 may play the segment forward. In some embodiments, when the electric vehicle decelerates, the method 1100 may play the clip in reverse. In some embodiments, when the speed of the electric vehicle is substantially constant (for example, plus or minus 10%), the method 1100 may repeatedly play the same segment in the forward and reverse directions. The implementation of forward/reverse playback of audio clips is described in detail above with reference to FIGS. 7 to 9.

In some embodiments, the audio clip may be stored in a sound memory or a storage device. When the system wants to play an audio clip, the system can retrieve the audio clip from the sound memory. In some embodiments, the system can retrieve multiple audio clips (for example, the ones that are most frequently played), and then store them in a coupled processor or cache located in the processor, so that the audio clips can be quickly and efficiently Play.

It can be understood from the foregoing that the specific embodiments of the technology described herein are for illustrative purposes only, and that various modifications may be made without departing from the technology. In addition, although the advantages associated therewith have been described in the context of specific implementations of the technology, other implementations may have these advantages, and not all implementations need to have these advantages to fall within the scope of the technology Inside. Therefore, the present disclosure and its related technologies may cover other embodiments not explicitly shown or described herein.

1100‧‧‧Method

1101~1105‧‧‧ block

Claims (29)

A method for playing audio signals related to an electric vehicle, the method comprising: determining a speed of the electric vehicle; receiving an audio signal corresponding to the determined speed of the electric vehicle from a memory A segment, wherein the audio signal segment is generated by a plurality of sound frequency features, wherein the sound frequency features correspond to a sound generated by a powertrain; and the audio signal segment is played by a speaker of the electric vehicle. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving the sound frequency characteristics corresponding to the determined speed of the electric vehicle from the memory, wherein the sound frequency characteristics include a plurality of segments, each of which The segment includes amplitudes of a plurality of frequency characteristics in the sound generated by the powertrain within a speed range; and generates the audio signal segment corresponding to the received frequency characteristics of the sound. The method of claim 1, wherein the powertrain includes an electric motor. The method of claim 1, further comprising: adjusting the amplitude of the audio signal segment based on the determined speed of the electric vehicle. The method of claim 4, further comprising: when it is determined that the speed of the electric vehicle is rising within a first speed range, increasing the volume of the speaker; when it is determined that the speed of the electric vehicle falls at a When in the second speed range, set the volume of the speaker to the maximum; and when it is determined that the speed of the electric vehicle is rising within a third speed range, reduce the volume of the speaker. The method according to claim 1, wherein the speed of the electric vehicle at a first time point is a first moving speed, wherein the audio signal segment is a first audio signal segment, wherein the method further comprises: Determining a second moving speed of the electric vehicle at a second time point; generating a second audio signal segment based on the received sound frequency characteristics; and playing the second audio signal segment with the speaker of the electric vehicle . The method according to claim 6, further comprising: when the first moving speed is lower than the second moving speed, forward playing the first audio signal segment and the second audio signal segment. The method of claim 6, further comprising: when the first moving speed is higher than the second moving speed, playing the first audio signal segment and the second audio signal segment in reverse. The method according to claim 1, wherein the speed of the electric vehicle at a first time point is a first moving speed, wherein the audio signal segment is a first audio signal segment, wherein the method further comprises: A second time point determines a second moving speed of the electric vehicle; and when the second moving speed is substantially equal to the first moving speed, the first audio signal segment is played in reverse. An electric vehicle includes: a processor; a power assembly, coupled to the processor; a memory, coupled to the processor, and configured to store a plurality of audio signal segments, wherein each of the audio signal segments is assigned by A plurality of sound frequency features to the electric vehicle are generated, wherein the sound frequency features include a plurality of segments, the segments corresponding to a plurality of frequency features in a sound generated by the powertrain; and a speaker, configured To play these audio signal clips. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein each of the segments includes amplitudes of the frequency characteristics of the sound generated by the powertrain within a speed range, wherein the processor is configured to be based on the electric vehicle A movement speed and the sound frequency characteristics are used to generate the audio signal segments. The electric vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the powertrain includes an electric motor. The electric vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the powertrain includes an electric motor, a transmission belt, and a transmission gear set. The electric vehicle of claim 10, wherein the processor adjusts the amplitude of the audio signal segments played by the speaker based on the determined speed of the electric vehicle. A method for playing audio signals related to an electric vehicle. The method includes: receiving a plurality of sound frequency features corresponding to a speed range of the electric vehicle from a sound memory, wherein the sound frequency features include A plurality of segments, each of which includes amplitudes of multiple frequency characteristics in a sound generated by a powertrain within the speed range; determining a current moving speed of the electric vehicle; generating corresponding to the received ones A first audio signal segment of sound frequency characteristics; playing the first audio signal segment with a speaker of the electric vehicle; determining whether the electric vehicle is accelerating, decelerating or maintaining the current moving speed; based on the determination, generating A second audio signal segment corresponding to the received sound frequency characteristics; and playing the second audio signal segment with the speaker of the electric vehicle. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: when the first moving speed is lower than the second moving speed, forward playing the first audio signal segment and the second audio signal segment. The method of claim 15, further comprising: when the first movement speed is higher than the second movement speed, playing the first audio signal segment and the second audio signal segment in reverse. The method of claim 15, further comprising: when the second moving speed is substantially equal to the first moving speed, playing the first audio signal segment in reverse to replace the second audio signal segment. A method for generating an audio signal related to an electric vehicle. The method includes: analyzing a first audio information group related to a power assembly of the electric vehicle, so as to select from the first within a first range A plurality of frequency features are identified in an audio information group; based on the frequency features identified in the first range, a set of corresponding frequency features is generated in a second range; a set of audio signal fragments are generated corresponding to the Different speeds in the second range; and storing the set of audio signal fragments to a sound memory, which is coupled to a processor of the electric vehicle. The method of claim 19, further comprising: determining the first range to be measured; operating the electric vehicle within the first range, wherein the first range corresponds to a number between the electric vehicle A first vehicle speed range between a speed and a second speed of the electric vehicle, wherein the first speed is lower than the second speed; measured when the electric vehicle is operating within the first range A plurality of audio signals generated by the electric vehicle; and identifying the frequency characteristics based on the measured audio signals. The method of claim 20, wherein the second range corresponds to a second vehicle speed range between a third speed of the electric vehicle and the second speed of the electric vehicle, wherein the The third speed is lower than the first speed. The method of claim 21, wherein the first speed is about 15 kilometers per hour, wherein the second speed is about 30 kilometers per hour, and the third speed is about 0 kilometers per hour. The method of claim 19, wherein the set of audio signal segments is configured to be played by a speaker of the electric vehicle. The method according to claim 19, wherein the frequency characteristics include a plurality of frequency characteristic curves. The method according to claim 19, wherein the frequency characteristics include amplitudes of pitch, harmonics, and harmonics corresponding to different vehicle speeds. The method of claim 19, wherein the frequency characteristics include a high frequency of approximately 9460 Hz to 10540 Hz, an overtone frequency of approximately 466 Hz to 3729 Hz, a harmonic frequency of approximately 622 Hz to 3322 Hz, and approximately The fundamental frequency of 233 Hz. The method of claim 19, further comprising determining that the frequency characteristics are based at least on a characteristic of a speaker of the electric vehicle. The method of claim 19, further comprising: adjusting the set of corresponding frequency characteristics in the second range by fading in the set of corresponding frequency characteristics in a fade-in range. The method of claim 19, further comprising: adjusting the set of corresponding frequency characteristics in the second range by fading out the set of corresponding frequency characteristics in a fade out range.

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