At this year's Consumer Electronics Show, Harman presented some updates to its HALOsonic suite of noise management solutions. Matthew Beecham spoke to Rajus Augustine, Director HALOsonic Business Development to find out what it means for OEMs.
We have heard about HALOsonic before so in what ways has it advanced?
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Harman, together with Lotus Engineering, created HALOsonic, to both improve in-cabin noise levels as well as enhance sound inside and outside the vehicle. Our latest developments focus on cancelling the two main sources of unwanted noise in the car, namely engine and the road. We primarily looked at these noises, as they not only increase fatigue and stress levels when driving, but also interfere with audio listening experience. The latest HALOsonic Road Noise (RNC) and Engine Order Cancellation (EOC) technologies reduce low frequency noise originating from the engine and road. Ultimately by adopting this technology, OEMs could use light weight structural materials thereby reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
Does Harman's experience in acoustics and premium in-car audio really translate to noise management?
Absolutely. As you are probably aware, Harman has been involved in the acoustic management for vehicles over the last three decades, notably gaining understanding of the in-vehicle sound environment and resonant frequencies – two key facets required to create a good listening and driving experience. With this deep knowledge and real world expertise, it's a natural move for Harman to expand its portfolio offering the ability to both create quiet vehicles as well as some of the best audio systems in the market. It is this real world application knowledge that we believe allows Harman to provide a fully integrated solution for the most challenging and harshest of applications: in-cabin active noise management. For example, Harman's patented True Audio technology ensures that in-cabin audio remains unaffected by noise cancellation, ensuring that the listening experience remains uncompromised.
How do they actually work?
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By GlobalDataActive Noise Cancellation works by generating anti-noise similar to that created in noise cancellation headphones. In case of Road Noise Cancellation, accelerometers placed in the path of noise transfer, typically on the suspension and chassis, provide a reference signal to the system controller. The controller in turn utilises a proprietary algorithm to generate an anti-noise signal that is sent to the car's standard loudspeakers. Error microphones in the roof of the car provide adaptive feedback on the cabin noise level in order to fine tune the cancellation, helping occupants enjoy an enhanced driving experience.
You mentioned technology to reduce engine noise. How does that work?
Engine Order Cancellation (EOC) uses the engine RPM signal as a reference to generate a sound wave that is opposite in phase to the engine induced low frequency noise. Error microphones mounted in the cabin ceiling provide feedback on the amplitude and phase to refine noise-cancelling effects. In addition to a potential reduction in usage of traditional sound deadening materials, EOC helps OEMs to engage in cylinder shutdown, leading to improved fuel consumption and fewer CO2 emissions.
What is the market opportunity for technologies such as road noise cancellation?
The remainder of this interview is available on just-auto's QUBE Global light vehicle instrumentation and cockpits market- forecasts to 2030
