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WO2000012354A1 - Vehicle signalling system - Google Patents

Vehicle signalling system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000012354A1
WO2000012354A1 PCT/ZA1999/000076 ZA9900076W WO0012354A1 WO 2000012354 A1 WO2000012354 A1 WO 2000012354A1 ZA 9900076 W ZA9900076 W ZA 9900076W WO 0012354 A1 WO0012354 A1 WO 0012354A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vehicle
signal
signalling system
signal generating
audible
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/ZA1999/000076
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jason Berry
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to AU59302/99A priority Critical patent/AU5930299A/en
Publication of WO2000012354A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000012354A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q5/00—Arrangement or adaptation of acoustic signal devices
    • B60Q5/005—Arrangement or adaptation of acoustic signal devices automatically actuated
    • B60Q5/008—Arrangement or adaptation of acoustic signal devices automatically actuated for signaling silent vehicles, e.g. for warning that a hybrid or electric vehicle is approaching

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a method and system of enabling a device associated with a vehicle to produce a warning sound or signal to enable pedestrians and other vehicle drivers to be aware of the presence of a the said vehicle , so to minimise accidents and risk due to people not hearing the vehicle. More specifically it relates to the provision of sound generating means in conjunction with electrically operated vehicles and a method of and system for generating the sound.
  • a vehicle signalling system comprising an audible signal generating device which may be associated with a vehicle for generating a distinct audible signal and the signal generated according to the state of the vehicle.
  • the vehicle signalling system may comprise an audible signal generating device adapted to generate a signal matched with the relative speed of the vehicle.
  • the signal may be a function of the relative speed of the vehicle so that it will change in intensity according to the relative speed of the vehicle.
  • the generated signal may be projected in the direction of relative movement of the vehicle.
  • the audible signal generating device may comprises power means adapted to regulate the signal generation.
  • the sound generation means may comprise a mechanical device or the like associated the rolling stock of the vehicle.
  • the sound generation means may comprise an air powered device adapted to create an audible signal as an airflow is experienced thereover in use.
  • the sound generation means may comprises an electronic device adapted to create an audible signal as vehicle movement may be detected.
  • sound generation means may alter the pitch or frequency in relation to vehicle speed changes. Also the sound generation means may alter the pitch or frequency in relation to vehicle direction changes
  • the sound generation means may alter the volume at which the signal is transmitted in relation to one or more of: vehicle speed changes and vehicle directional movement.
  • audible signal generation means may be adapted to generate a number of different audible signals on demand and audible signal amplifying means may be connected or connectable to the signal generation means.
  • a method of generating warning signals for a vehicle including the steps of: providing at least one vehicle modified to house; at least one audible signal generating device; activating the device upon detection of vehicle movement; and generating an audible signal for notification to surrounding users.
  • the signal generating device may be associated with one or more of: mechanical signal generating means, electrical signal generating means, electronic signal generating means, chemical signal generating means, friction signal generating means, movement signal generating means and air-flow signal generating means.
  • Figure 1 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the invention relating to an - embodiment of the vehicle signaling / sounding system or unit
  • Figure 2 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the invention relating to the application of the signaling / sounding system associated with the mechanical parts or units of the vehicle;
  • Figure 3 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the invention relating to an embodiment associated with electronical and/or electrical operation;
  • Figure 4 is a block diagram of a fourth embodiment of the invention relating to a embodiment associated with mechanical operation ;
  • Figure 5 is a block diagram of a fifth embodiment of the invention relating to a graph illustrating the signalling / sounding device's operation with regard to road speed;
  • Figure 6 is a block diagram of a sixth embodiment of the invention relating to a graph illustrating the signalling / sounding device's operation with regard to the vehicle's component's mechanical speed;
  • Figure 7 is a block diagram of an eight embodiment of the invention which en embodiment where airflow or movement generates a sound wave that signals movement or presence
  • a vehicle (1) with a front signaling / sounding device (2) that generates a sound wave (3) and/or with a rear signaling / sounding device (4) that generates a sound wave (5).
  • FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed unit comprising the wheels (6), power unit i.e. an electrical motor (7), powered by batteries (9) with a gearbox (8) and the signalling /sounding device (10) generating an audible signal or sound (11) whether it be electrically, electronically , mechanically or via other means as appropriate.
  • power unit i.e. an electrical motor (7)
  • batteries 9
  • gearbox (8)
  • signalling /sounding device 10 generating an audible signal or sound (11) whether it be electrically, electronically , mechanically or via other means as appropriate.
  • Figure 3 more specifically includes an electrically driven sounding unit including a electronic current means (12) i.e. a battery, generator or the like, power distribution means (13) i.e. cabling, switching means (14) and sound /signal generating means (15).
  • a electronic current means (12) i.e. a battery, generator or the like
  • power distribution means (13) i.e. cabling
  • switching means (14) and sound /signal generating means (15).
  • Figure 4 relates to a mechanical sounding unit with mechanical movement means (16) driving the signal means (17) to produce the signal / sound (18)
  • Figure 5 is a graphical presentation in graph form illustrating the intensity / loudness or frequency of the sound or signal in relation to vehicle speed, in which case the former increases as the latter increase and vice vers.
  • Figure 6 is a graphical presentation in graph form illustrating the intensity / loudness or frequency of the sound or signal in relation to mechanical movement i.e. revolutions of the motor / driver shaft etc.
  • Figure7 more specifically illustrates an embodiment where the movement or airflow generates the sound / signal on a wheel for example (21) with fins or plates (22) attached or holding the wheel's structure; being attached to the inner section / bearing (23) and the outer rim (24).

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)

Abstract

The invention provides a method and system with a device for signalling a vehicle's presence or movement. The invention preferably includes a sounding or signalling device (2) that is attached or associated with an electric power vehicle (1). The invention includes the steps of providing signal or sound generating means (12) associated with said vehicle. Furthermore the signal or sound generated frequency or loudness may be increased and decreased as the vehicle's direction and/or road speed or mechanical speed changes. The signal or sound may be generated by electronic, electric, mechanical, airflow or movement means, or by means as appropriate in signalling the vehicle's presence and movement to other vehicle users and pedestrians.

Description

VEHICLE SIGNALLING SYSTEM
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention relates to a method and system of enabling a device associated with a vehicle to produce a warning sound or signal to enable pedestrians and other vehicle drivers to be aware of the presence of a the said vehicle , so to minimise accidents and risk due to people not hearing the vehicle. More specifically it relates to the provision of sound generating means in conjunction with electrically operated vehicles and a method of and system for generating the sound.
BACKGROUND ART
The coming of the new millennium has seen the world movement to ecological friendly products, ecological management and "earth consciousness ". Motor vehicles are the main cause of Co2 pollution as by-products of fossil fuels. Major car manufactures has invested millions into development of electrically operated vehicles. Although these vehicles are sure to be a success the shortfall is that people are still accustomed to hearing engine sounds. The problem with electrical vehicles however is the fact that they are so quiet and therefore an increase in pedestrian and vehicle accidents are sure to be seen.
OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a system and method and/or device that produces a warning sound or signal to enable pedestrians and other vehicle drivers to be aware of the presence of a vehicle. DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
According to the first aspect of the invention there is included a vehicle signalling system comprising an audible signal generating device which may be associated with a vehicle for generating a distinct audible signal and the signal generated according to the state of the vehicle.
The vehicle signalling system may comprise an audible signal generating device adapted to generate a signal matched with the relative speed of the vehicle.
Furthermore the signal may be a function of the relative speed of the vehicle so that it will change in intensity according to the relative speed of the vehicle.
Also the generated signal may be projected in the direction of relative movement of the vehicle.
According to the second aspect of the invention the audible signal generating device may comprises power means adapted to regulate the signal generation.
According to the third aspect of the invention the sound generation means may comprise a mechanical device or the like associated the rolling stock of the vehicle.
Of coarse the sound generation means may comprise an air powered device adapted to create an audible signal as an airflow is experienced thereover in use.
Also the sound generation means may comprises an electronic device adapted to create an audible signal as vehicle movement may be detected.
Furthermore the sound generation means may alter the pitch or frequency in relation to vehicle speed changes. Also the sound generation means may alter the pitch or frequency in relation to vehicle direction changes
Additionally the sound generation means may alter the volume at which the signal is transmitted in relation to one or more of: vehicle speed changes and vehicle directional movement.
Of coarse the audible signal generation means may be adapted to generate a number of different audible signals on demand and audible signal amplifying means may be connected or connectable to the signal generation means.
According to the fourth aspect of the invention there is included a method of generating warning signals for a vehicle including the steps of: providing at least one vehicle modified to house; at least one audible signal generating device; activating the device upon detection of vehicle movement; and generating an audible signal for notification to surrounding users.
According to the sixth aspect of the invention the signal generating device may be associated with one or more of: mechanical signal generating means, electrical signal generating means, electronic signal generating means, chemical signal generating means, friction signal generating means, movement signal generating means and air-flow signal generating means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by means of non-limiting examples only, with reference to the accompanying diagrams wherein:
Figure 1: is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the invention relating to an - embodiment of the vehicle signaling / sounding system or unit; Figure 2: is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the invention relating to the application of the signaling / sounding system associated with the mechanical parts or units of the vehicle;
Figure 3: is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the invention relating to an embodiment associated with electronical and/or electrical operation;
Figure 4: is a block diagram of a fourth embodiment of the invention relating to a embodiment associated with mechanical operation ; Figure 5: is a block diagram of a fifth embodiment of the invention relating to a graph illustrating the signalling / sounding device's operation with regard to road speed; Figure 6: is a block diagram of a sixth embodiment of the invention relating to a graph illustrating the signalling / sounding device's operation with regard to the vehicle's component's mechanical speed; and
Figure 7: is a block diagram of an eight embodiment of the invention which en embodiment where airflow or movement generates a sound wave that signals movement or presence
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Turning to Figure 1, there is shown according to an embodiment of the invention, a vehicle (1) with a front signaling / sounding device (2) that generates a sound wave (3) and/or with a rear signaling / sounding device (4) that generates a sound wave (5).
Figure 2 illustrates a detailed unit comprising the wheels (6), power unit i.e. an electrical motor (7), powered by batteries (9) with a gearbox (8) and the signalling /sounding device (10) generating an audible signal or sound (11) whether it be electrically, electronically , mechanically or via other means as appropriate.
Figure 3 more specifically includes an electrically driven sounding unit including a electronic current means (12) i.e. a battery, generator or the like, power distribution means (13) i.e. cabling, switching means (14) and sound /signal generating means (15).
Figure 4, relates to a mechanical sounding unit with mechanical movement means (16) driving the signal means (17) to produce the signal / sound (18)
Figure 5 is a graphical presentation in graph form illustrating the intensity / loudness or frequency of the sound or signal in relation to vehicle speed, in which case the former increases as the latter increase and vice vers.
Figure 6 is a graphical presentation in graph form illustrating the intensity / loudness or frequency of the sound or signal in relation to mechanical movement i.e. revolutions of the motor / driver shaft etc.
Figure7 more specifically illustrates an embodiment where the movement or airflow generates the sound / signal on a wheel for example (21) with fins or plates (22) attached or holding the wheel's structure; being attached to the inner section / bearing (23) and the outer rim (24).

Claims

1. A vehicle signalling system comprising an audible signal generating device associated with a vehicle for generating a distinct audible signal and the signal generated according to the state of the vehicle.
2. A vehicle signalling system comprising an audible signal generating device adapted to generate a signal matched with the relative speed of the vehicle.
3. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in claim 2 in which the signal is a function of the relative speed of the vehicle so that it will change in intensity according to the relative speed of the vehicle.
4. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the generated signal is projected in the direction of relative movement of the vehicle.
5. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of claims 1, 2, 3 or 4 in which the audible signal generating device comprises power means adapted to regulate the signal generation.
6. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the sound generation means comprises a mechanical device or the like associated the rolling stock of the vehicle.
7. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the sound generation means comprises an air powered device adapted to create an audible signal as an airflow is experienced thereover in use.
8. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the sound generation means comprises an electronic device adapted to create an audible signal as vehicle movement is detected.
. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the sound generation means alters the pitch or frequency in relation to vehicle speed changes
10. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the sound generation means alters the pitch or frequency in relation to vehicle direction changes
11. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims in which the sound generation means alters the volume at which the signal is transmitted in relation to one or more of: vehicle speed changes and vehicle directional movement.
12. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims including audible signal generation means is adapted to generate a number of different audible signals on demand.
13. A vehicle signalling system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims including audible signal amplifying means connected or connectable to the signal generation means.
14. A method of generating warning signals for a vehicle including the steps of:
- providing at least one vehicle modified to house'
- at least one audible signal generating device;
- activating the device upon detection of vehicle movement; and - generating an audible signal for notification to surrounding users.
15. A method as claimed in claim 14 wherein the signal generating device is associated with one or more of: mechanical signal generating means, electrical signal generating means, electronic signal generating means, chemical signal generating means, friction signal generating means, movement signal generating means and air-flow signal generating means.
PCT/ZA1999/000076 1998-08-31 1999-08-31 Vehicle signalling system Ceased WO2000012354A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU59302/99A AU5930299A (en) 1998-08-31 1999-08-31 Vehicle signalling system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ZA987881 1998-08-31
ZA98/7881 1998-08-31

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000012354A1 true WO2000012354A1 (en) 2000-03-09

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/ZA1999/000076 Ceased WO2000012354A1 (en) 1998-08-31 1999-08-31 Vehicle signalling system

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU5930299A (en)
WO (1) WO2000012354A1 (en)

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1927512A3 (en) * 2006-11-28 2008-07-02 Alfred Trzmiel Device for generating audio signals
WO2011092282A1 (en) 2010-01-28 2011-08-04 Avl List Gmbh Method for operating a hybrid vehicle
US20110313617A1 (en) * 2010-05-26 2011-12-22 Asako Omote Sound-directed-outside-vehicle emitting device
US8299904B2 (en) 2010-08-31 2012-10-30 Nissan North America, Inc. System and method for producing an audible alert for a vehicle
DE102012001658A1 (en) 2012-01-28 2013-08-01 Audi Ag Motor vehicle i.e. hybrid vehicle, has noise controller controlling radiator fan and/or device influencing radiator fan noise for producing and emitting variable vehicle-operation noise, and plate pivotable in airflow of radiator fan
US8730020B2 (en) 2010-08-31 2014-05-20 Nissan North America, Inc. System and method for producing an audible alert for a vehicle
AT515761A1 (en) * 2014-04-28 2015-11-15 Avl List Gmbh Vehicle with a noise generating device
US9294365B2 (en) 2013-05-08 2016-03-22 Vringo, Inc. Cognitive radio system and cognitive radio carrier device

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH0732948A (en) * 1993-07-20 1995-02-03 Toyota Motor Corp Pseudo-running sound generator for electric vehicles
US5635903A (en) * 1993-12-21 1997-06-03 Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Simulated sound generator for electric vehicles
DE19701801A1 (en) * 1996-12-20 1998-07-02 Aarcon Prauss Arminius Gmbh Motor and vehicle noise simulator e.g. for electric vehicle
JPH1127810A (en) * 1997-06-30 1999-01-29 Nec Corp Electric vehicle
US5883571A (en) * 1997-05-14 1999-03-16 Darlington Cotter Associates Device and method for generating an audible signal in a motor vehicle

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH0732948A (en) * 1993-07-20 1995-02-03 Toyota Motor Corp Pseudo-running sound generator for electric vehicles
US5635903A (en) * 1993-12-21 1997-06-03 Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Simulated sound generator for electric vehicles
DE19701801A1 (en) * 1996-12-20 1998-07-02 Aarcon Prauss Arminius Gmbh Motor and vehicle noise simulator e.g. for electric vehicle
US5883571A (en) * 1997-05-14 1999-03-16 Darlington Cotter Associates Device and method for generating an audible signal in a motor vehicle
JPH1127810A (en) * 1997-06-30 1999-01-29 Nec Corp Electric vehicle

Non-Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
PATENT ABSTRACTS OF JAPAN vol. 1995, no. 05 30 June 1995 (1995-06-30) *
PATENT ABSTRACTS OF JAPAN vol. 1999, no. 04 30 April 1999 (1999-04-30) *

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1927512A3 (en) * 2006-11-28 2008-07-02 Alfred Trzmiel Device for generating audio signals
WO2011092282A1 (en) 2010-01-28 2011-08-04 Avl List Gmbh Method for operating a hybrid vehicle
US20110313617A1 (en) * 2010-05-26 2011-12-22 Asako Omote Sound-directed-outside-vehicle emitting device
US8121755B2 (en) * 2010-05-26 2012-02-21 Mitsubishi Electric Corporation Sound-directed-outside-vehicle emitting device
US8730020B2 (en) 2010-08-31 2014-05-20 Nissan North America, Inc. System and method for producing an audible alert for a vehicle
US8299904B2 (en) 2010-08-31 2012-10-30 Nissan North America, Inc. System and method for producing an audible alert for a vehicle
DE102012001658A1 (en) 2012-01-28 2013-08-01 Audi Ag Motor vehicle i.e. hybrid vehicle, has noise controller controlling radiator fan and/or device influencing radiator fan noise for producing and emitting variable vehicle-operation noise, and plate pivotable in airflow of radiator fan
DE102012001658B4 (en) 2012-01-28 2019-09-26 Audi Ag Motor vehicle with a device for generating a vehicle operating noise
US9294365B2 (en) 2013-05-08 2016-03-22 Vringo, Inc. Cognitive radio system and cognitive radio carrier device
US9300724B2 (en) 2013-05-08 2016-03-29 Vringo, Inc. Server function for device-to-device based content delivery
US9374280B2 (en) 2013-05-08 2016-06-21 Vringo Infrastructure Inc. Device-to-device based content delivery for time-constrained communications
US9401850B2 (en) 2013-05-08 2016-07-26 Vringo Infrastructure Inc. Cognitive radio system and cognitive radio carrier device
AT515761A1 (en) * 2014-04-28 2015-11-15 Avl List Gmbh Vehicle with a noise generating device

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