EV exterior Sound Alarm for pedestrian (AVAS): process for Sound Design and 3D sound Simulation

摘要

In many countries, sound alarms for EV are becoming mandatory for pedestrian warning. Meanwhile, more and more car manufacturers are working on their EV sound for marketing and brand identity purposes. In this context, GENESIS will introduce its methodology to creatively design the EV sound while considering both the original sound of the car and the surrounding noise. To assess the sound quality in realistic conditions, the first step is sound design; and despite the regulation guidelines, the freedom is large to create new sound for AVAS. We propose the criteria and sound design process with interactive process. A hybrid method is applied to reproduce the 3D audio rendering simulation playback based on theory, recording and sound synthesis in order to have a fast process and a realistic match. These VR tools for simulating and experiencing allows various EV sound scenarios in different soundscapes (crowded traffic, countryside driving,...). It uses 3D audio algorithms among which consider distance effects, vehicle speed, loudspeaker sources directivity, and Doppler effect. To provide an optimal rendering, loudspeakers are chosen over headphones to avoid any unwanted intrusive feeling. The use of 3D sound allows the investigation of scenarios where the EV is out of sight (coming from behind, hidden by a truck...), as well as the conduction of listening tests to assess the design of the sound using various scenarios with realistic conditions. Different jury testing can assess the perception of AVAS regarding urgency, including time response reaction.