On-board audio system for a model vehicle

A realistic simulation of the dynamic sounds of a full-sized vehicle are created on a moving R/C Scale Model. A mounting apparatus supports an audio exciter in a model vehicle without any modification to the exciter. A full range of volume of sound may be produced by the exciter without limiting the range of movement of the exciter as volume is increased or decreased. The apparatus may limit the mechanical excursion of the exciter to prevent physical damage to the exciter. The present invention also provides a method and apparatus for operating the audio exciter in a model vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an audio system for a model vehicle and, more particularly, to an apparatus for mounting an audio exciter, and to a method and apparatus for operating the audio exciter.

Description of the Related Art

Remote Control (R/C) scale model vehicles mimic the design, style and handling of the full-sized vehicles on which they are based, but at a fraction of the size and cost. While these vehicles emulate the physical characteristics of the full-sized original, R/C model vehicles, particularly electric-powered models, do not recreate the audible experience of the full-sized originals.

Certain commercially available audio exciters, also known as audio transducers, are originally intended, as purchased, to mount to an object by means of an adhesive ring supported on a plastic mounting tab. The adhesive is originally intended to be strong enough to keep the exciter mounted to any surface that it is attached to. However, the operating conditions of an R/C model vehicle are generally too severe to rely only upon the adhesive to ensure the exciter stays mounted during the vehicle operation and movement. Most audio systems on the market today require an actual speaker to be mounted somewhere. The speakers are often times fragile and not weather-resistant. A stick-on audio exciter will be damaged very easily in crashes when relying only upon the stock exciter's adhesive ring for mounting.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides a realistic simulation of the dynamic sounds of a full-sized vehicle created on a moving R/C Scale Model. A mounting apparatus supports an audio exciter in a model vehicle without any modification to the exciter. In an embodiment, a full range of volume of sound may be produced by the exciter without limiting the range of movement of the exciter as volume is increased or decreased. The apparatus may limit the mechanical excursion of the exciter to prevent physical damage to the exciter during extreme operation. The present invention also provides a method and apparatus for operating the audio exciter in a model vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Mechanical Installation

A typical audio exciter100is shown inFIGS. 1A-1D. In one embodiment the exciter comprises a semi-toroidal, flexible element102having an aperture104, affixed to a housing106having a flange105. The aperture104may be formed by a circular central ring body114, having a broad upper portion116, which may be affixed to a central portion of the flexible element102. An adhesive mounting ring108surrounding the aperture104is supported on broad upper portion116of the central ring body114, and provides for mounting the exciter100to a planar surface or other object. The adhesive mounting ring may be a circle of double-sided adhesive tape, such as 3 M brand “VHB” tape, for example. An electrical connector plate110having two electrical terminals112A,112B for connecting electrical audio signals to the exciter100is supported at a position on the perimeter of the housing106. As shown inFIG. 1C-1D, the audio exciter100may be affixed to a surface90via the adhesive mounting ring108, and may rely upon the adhesive to keep the audio exciter100affixed to its mounting surface. The audio produced by this “simple flat” mounting configuration may be preferred and exemplary.

Turning now toFIGS. 2-6, a first mounting apparatus200for an audio exciter100is shown in a perspective view with the audio exciter100installed inFIG. 2, and in an exploded view with the audio exciter100shown separately inFIG. 5.FIG. 3is a top view, andFIG. 4is a cross-sectional view that illustrates audio exciter100secured within circular mounting portion204by suitable retention members. The central ring body114is shown with broad upper portion116having adhesive mounting ring108affixed thereon. Flexible element102is may vibrate freely and respond to electrical signals applied to the audio exciter100. The first mounting apparatus200may be a generally circular object having curved walls201(FIG. 5) molded or otherwise formed as a continuously circular body204having a cavity203within. The continuously circular body204may have flange205formed at a first end of the circular body portion204. The flange205may be perpendicular to the curved walls201of the circular body portion204and may have an upward-facing surface207extending outwardly around a circumference of the flange205for receiving and supporting the audio exciter100by its flange105. One or more curved walls202may extend upwardly from a perimeter of the flange205. In an embodiment, the first mounting apparatus200may have retention members such as detents206formed in the tops of curved walls202for retaining the audio exciter100with minimal movement within the first mounting apparatus200. As shown inFIGS. 4-5, the detents206are made of a plastic material, and may be configured as curvilinear ridges extending inwardly from an interior surface of curved walls202, conforming to the curve of the curved wall202, and extending only a sufficient distance to capture the audio exciter100within the curved walls202and in contact with the upwardly-facing surface207. In an embodiment, other materials may be used such as metal or fibrous materials, and the like. The mounting apparatus200may also have curved corner sections208partially separated from the curved walls by gaps210. Each corner section208may have a section of curved wall212molded or otherwise formed into the continuously circular body204, and a cylindrical boss214formed on an exterior surface of the curved wall212.

In an embodiment as shown inFIG. 3, there may be four corner sections208, with the four bosses214providing rigid mounting points to a body of a model vehicle. Each of the bosses214may have a central channel216for receiving mounting hardware, such as a machine screw or bolt. The central channel216may be a smooth bore, or it may be threaded, depending upon the desired application for mounting to a model vehicle body. In one of the curved walls212, a wide gap218may be provided to accommodate the electrical connector plate110extending outwardly away from the center of the audio exciter100.FIG. 4illustrates in a cross-sectional view the audio exciter100within first mounting apparatus200. The exciter housing106may be disposed within the cavity formed within circular body204and may rest upon the upper surfaces207of flange205. A circumferential edge of exciter housing106may be captured by suitable retention members, such as detent members216formed in the circular walls202which extend upwardly from the flange205.

The first mounting apparatus200shown inFIGS. 2-6is illustrative, only, and shall not be construed as a limitation on the present invention. In alternative embodiments, the mounting apparatus may have additional, less, or different parts than those shown inFIGS. 2-6. Additionally, in an embodiment, the mounting apparatus may have a different shape, such as ovoid, rectangular, and the like. The mounting apparatus may be configured to have additional or fewer mounting points along its perimeter or elsewhere on the apparatus for receiving any type of mechanical fastener.

Turning now toFIG. 5, the housing106of the audio exciter100may be clipped into the first mounting apparatus200, and the first mounting apparatus200may be secured to the body of a model vehicle using mechanical fasteners, such as screws. Adhesive ring108may also be used to help secure the audio exciter100to the model vehicle body. As shown inFIG. 6, the first mounting apparatus200may be mounted to the inside of a model vehicle body and secured using suitable fasteners, such as screws220, for example. Using this configuration the audio exciter100is both securely mounted to the model vehicle body and protected from over travel since the body of the audio exciter100may not extend beyond the bottom of circular body204(seeFIG. 4), but the sound generated may be altered significantly compared to the “simple flat” mounting configuration ofFIG. 1C-1D, due to the acoustic effect of the relatively close and fixed mounting means of the first mounting apparatus200, effectively limiting vibrations induced by the audio exciter100. Said mounting means may alter such acoustic parameters as free-air resonance and frequency response; such effects are well-known in the field of loudspeaker and enclosure design.

Turning now toFIGS. 7-10a second mounting apparatus300for an audio exciter100is shown in perspective views with the audio exciter100installed. The second mounting apparatus300may comprise a generally circular ring302, having upper and lower planar surfaces303A and303B, respectively, and a nominal width. Mounting tabs304may extend inwardly from the circular ring302for making contact with the adhesive ring108of the audio exciter100. Coincident with each of the mounting tabs304there may be a retention member such as a detent extending from the lower planar surface303B of circular ring302and extending inwardly to contact a portion of the audio exciter100that supports the adhesive ring108thereof, as will be explained in more detail in connection withFIG. 11. In an embodiment, there may be four mounting bosses306extending upwardly from the upper surface303A of ring302, and provided with central channels308similar to central channels216as described hereinbefore, for attaching the second mounting apparatus300and the audio exciter100to the body of a model vehicle.

As shown inFIGS. 9-10, the housing106of the audio exciter100may be clipped into the second mounting apparatus300, and the second mounting apparatus300may be secured to the body of a model vehicle1using suitable mechanical fasteners. Adhesive ring108may also be used to help secure the audio exciter100to the mounting apparatus300. As shown inFIG. 10, the second mounting apparatus300may be mounted to the inside of a model vehicle body1and secured using suitable fasteners, such as screws220, for example.

The mounting apparatus shown inFIGS. 9-10is illustrative, only, and shall not be construed as a limitation on the present invention. In alternative embodiments, the mounting apparatus may have additional, less, or different parts that those shown inFIGS. 9-10. Additionally, in an embodiment, the mounting apparatus may have a different shape, such as ovoid, rectangular, and the like. The mounting apparatus may be configured to have additional or fewer mounting points along its perimeter or elsewhere on the apparatus for receiving any type of mechanical fastener, including nails, screws, brads, rivets, and the like and of different lengths and diameters than that shown.

Turning now toFIG. 11, the second mounting apparatus300is shown in a cross-sectional view to illustrate certain mounting features of the second mounting apparatus300. A retention feature such as detent310may extend downwardly from the lower planar surface303B of ring302and extend inwardly to contact a central ring body114of the exciter100that supports the adhesive ring108thereof. As shown, the detents310are made of a plastic material. In an embodiment, other materials may be used such as metal or fibrous materials, and the like. The audio exciter100may be constructed having a central ring body114from which flexible element102depends. The central ring body114may have a T-shaped cross section with an upper portion116, on top of which the adhesive ring108is supported. As shown inFIG. 7, the adhesive ring108may be compressed between the upper portion116of central ring body114and mounting tabs304. The portion of detent310that extends inwardly extends at least far enough to capture the outer, lower edge312of upper portion116of central ring body114. The audio exciter100may be coupled to the second mounting apparatus300by inserting the central ring body114into the second mounting apparatus300from below, such that the upper portion116is captured within ring302, mounting tabs304, and detents310.

In the second mounting apparatus300, the housing106of the exciter100may be allowed to “float”, or hang from its mount in an unrestricted manner. The second mounting apparatus300may attach to the plastic central ring body114of the exciter with mounting tabs304and the original adhesive ring108. The second mounting apparatus300may be attached to the body of a model vehicle with mechanical fasteners, such as 3 mm screws, for example, and may be much more robust than relying upon the adhesive ring108alone to secure the audio exciter100to a model vehicle body. The second mounting apparatus300may be very compact and may securely mount the audio exciter100to a model vehicle body, but may not protect the audio exciter100from over travel during a crash or other severe event. The sound produced by second mounting apparatus300is moderately altered compared to the “simple flat” mounting configuration ofFIG. 1C. When supported by second mounting apparatus300, the audio exciter100has to move more mass, which may lower the volume and may alter the frequencies produced.

Turning now toFIGS. 12-14, a third mounting apparatus400for mounting an audio exciter100is shown in a perspective view inFIG. 12illustrating an audio exciter100mounted to the third mounting apparatus400, which may comprise a mounting ring402similar to second mounting apparatus300as described above, but with the addition of a support carriage404. The support carriage404may have an excursion-limiting portion406, such as the generally planar disk-shaped object shown inFIG. 12, positioned below the audio exciter100. The excursion-limiting portion406maybe be supported by support arms408A and408B extending from the mounting ring402. In an embodiment, each of the support arms408may join with the excursion-limiting portion406at one point, extend in a curvilinear fashion around the audio exciter100, and join with two of support bosses410on the mounting ring402. Note that support bosses410may be similar to the support bosses306described above. In an embodiment, each of the support arms may be a single continuous piece up to a point, and then may divide into first and second connecting portions412,414. Support arm408A and support arm408B may connect to and support the excursion-limiting portion406from two opposing points on the excursion-limiting portion406, connect symmetrically to mounting ring402, mounting bosses410, and support the excursion-limiting portion406at an appropriate distance from the audio exciter100, to prevent damaging the audio exciter100while mounted in a model vehicle body experiencing severe or violent operating conditions. The entire third mounting apparatus400may be molded as a single article, or may be assembled from separately molded pieces. In an embodiment, the second mounting apparatus300may be interposed between the audio exciter100and the third mounting apparatus400, as shown inFIG. 13, and used to secure the audio exciter100to the third mounting apparatus400with suitable fasteners as described hereinbefore.

The support carriage404may prevent over travel of the flexible element102on the audio exciter100. The carriage may overlap the existing mounting disc402, as shown inFIG. 12, such that the support carriage404is sandwiched between the second mounting apparatus300and the model vehicle body1so they can use the same hardware220(FIG. 14) for mounting. This allows the number of hardware pieces to be minimized and reduces the overall weight of the installation, as shown inFIG. 13. The third mounting apparatus400may not fully seal the audio exciter100from harsh environments after it is installed. The sound produced by the third mounting apparatus400is moderately altered compared to the “simple flat” mounting configuration ofFIG. 1C. The audio exciter100has to move more mass, which may lower the volume and may alter the frequencies produced.

Turning now toFIGS. 15-20, a fourth mounting apparatus500for an audio exciter100is illustrated in a perspective views, and in sectional views, having an audio exciter100installed therein. The fourth mounting apparatus500protects the audio exciter100from harsh environments. As shown inFIG. 15andFIG. 19, the fourth mounting apparatus500may have a top half502and a bottom half504. The top half502may be configured to retain the audio exciter100by any means similar to those disclosed above with respect toFIGS. 2-12, the first mounting apparatus200, or the second mounting apparatus300. The top half502may have one or more mounting tabs506, similar to the mounting tabs304described above with respect to second mounting apparatus300, to which the adhesive108of the audio exciter100may be attached. The top half502may also include other mounting features for securing the audio exciter100, as described above. The top half502may be mounted to a model vehicle body via mounting bosses508, which may be similar to mounting bosses214or mounting bosses306as described with respect to first mounting apparatus200or second mounting apparatus300, respectively. The bottom half504of the enclosed fourth mounting apparatus500may be a cup-shaped or bowl-shaped object that may be fastened and secured to the upper half by means of suitable mechanical hardware, such as, for example, 2.5 mm screws passing through mounting holes510formed mounting bosses512of the top half502, which mate with corresponding mounting bosses514of the bottom half504. When securely coupled, the top half502and the bottom half504form a water resistant enclosure, having a wiring access port516, as shown inFIG. 16, where there is provided an exit for wiring used to make electrical connections to the audio exciter100.

As shown inFIG. 17, a cross-sectional view of the fourth mounting apparatus500shows audio exciter100suspended within a cavity503formed by top half502and bottom half504. The cavity503may provide clearance for movement of the audio exciter100but may also prevent over-travel of the audio exciter100. Along a perimeter of the top half502there may be a groove518which mates with a corresponding lip520of the bottom half504. Along a perimeter of the bottom half504, there may be a groove522in which a sealing member524, such as an O-ring or foam seal, may be used between the top half502and the bottom half504to prevent outside contaminants entering into the cavity503in which the audio exciter100is suspended. At wiring access port516, one or more foam pads526may be used to seal the access port516while simultaneously permitting electrical wiring528to pass from within the enclosure. The electrical wiring528may be connected to terminals112A,112B of audio exciter100and, after exiting the enclosed fourth mounting apparatus500via wiring access port516, may be connected to a source of audio signals to be reproduced. As shown inFIG. 20, the fourth mounting apparatus500maybe installed in the underside of a model vehicle body and secured using suitable fasteners, such as screws220, for example.

As shown inFIG. 18, the bottom half504of the fourth mounting apparatus500, while enclosing a lower portion, or housing106, of the audio exciter100, still allows for normal exciter movement within cavity503, as illustrated by arrows505, and may prevent the audio exciter100from over traveling on hard impacts, thereby protecting the audio exciter100from damage to the flexible element102during hard impacts which may be experienced by the model vehicle body in which the fourth mounting apparatus500is installed. Note that different types of exciters may be installed in an enclosure such as enclosed fourth mounting apparatus500, even if the different types of exciters are not compatible with harsh environments, such as dust, sand, water, and the like. The sealing of the audio exciter100protects the audio exciter100while the model vehicle is operating, but the added mass may significantly alter the sound produced by the audio exciter100. The mid-high frequencies may be affected such that the sound produced is more “muddled”, not as clear. The lower frequency “bass” sound may be reduced, as well as the overall sound volume.

Turning now toFIGS. 21-23, the fifth mounting apparatus600is illustrated in some detail.FIG. 21is an exploded view of the fifth mounting apparatus600showing the audio exciter100secured to the fifth mounting apparatus600by retention members612which may be any suitable fastener, such as machine screws as shown, for example. As shown inFIG. 22andFIG. 23, the fifth mounting apparatus600may be installed in the underside of a model vehicle body and secured using suitable fasteners, such as screws620, for example.

Turning now toFIGS. 24-26, a bottom view of a model vehicle body1showing the fifth mounting apparatus600installed in a rear position3of model vehicle body1, such as in a rear window or rear portion of a vehicle cabin is shown inFIG. 24.FIG. 25andFIG. 26are perspective views of a model vehicle body1showing the fifth mounting apparatus600installed in a rear position3of model vehicle body1.

Turning now toFIGS. 27-28, a fifth mounting apparatus600for an audio exciter100, is shown in multiple perspective representations supporting audio exciter100, wherein the model vehicle body is shown in phantom for clarity. The fifth mounting apparatus600may be configured to extend the interior width of a model vehicle body, from side-to-side, for example, and support the audio exciter100from its back side, or housing106(FIG. 1A) at a suitable distance from the body of the model vehicle such that the adhesive ring108of the audio exciter100may be affixed to a panel of the model vehicle body. The fifth mounting apparatus600may have a mounting portion602for supporting the audio exciter100. The mounting portion602may be supported by at least one transverse supporting arm604extending the interior width of a model vehicle model. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 27, two transverse supporting arms604and606extend from the mounting portion602, and terminate in mounting plates608and610. The audio exciter100may be secured into the mounting portion602by retention members, such as screws612, for example, installed around the perimeter of the audio exciter, or retained by retention members such as detents as described above with respect toFIGS. 2-5, for example. As shown inFIG. 28, the mounting plates608and610may be secured to the interior portion of a model vehicle body by any suitable mechanical means, and the adhesive ring108on the central ring body114of audio exciter100may affix to an interior panel of a model vehicle body (not shown).

The fifth mounting apparatus600may allow the audio exciter100to move its voice coil at full-throw, but not allow the flexible element102to be damaged during impacts or extreme operating conditions. Because of the relatively long transverse supporting arms604and606, the exciter has a larger area and wider portion of the body to excite. As a result, the sound produced by audio exciter100and fifth mounting apparatus600may not be significantly different from the sound produced by mounting audio exciter100to the body by adhesive ring108alone, such as the “simple flat” configuration ofFIG. 1C.

The audio exciter100may not be fully sealed in the fifth mounting apparatus600, and may be partially exposed to the environment. The internal portions of the audio exciter100are sealed against the entry of contaminants. Using the adhesive ring108on the plastic mounting tab116to attach to the body effectively seals the internal portions of the audio exciter100against the entry of contaminants.

Turning now toFIGS. 29-31, the fifth mounting apparatus600is illustrated in more detail.FIG. 29is a front view of a typical model vehicle body1.FIG. 30is a cross-sectional view of the typical model vehicle body1showing the fifth mounting apparatus600installed in a rear position3, mounted under the rear portion of the typical model vehicle body1.FIG. 31is a detail of the cross-section shown inFIG. 30.

Turning now toFIGS. 32-34, a strain relief member614may be a loop-like structure615provided in a mount, such as fifth mounting apparatus600, for wrapping the wiring618through the member614to form a strain relief.FIG. 32shows an exemplary mounting apparatus, such as fifth mounting apparatus600, in perspective illustrating the area in which the strain relief member614may be located at the center front of the fifth mounting apparatus600.FIG. 33illustrates a top view of the strain relief member614, which is formed by a structure615extending from mounting portion602. The structure615may have a main aperture621provided for the passage of electric wires therethrough. The main aperture621may have first and second additional side spaces or auxiliary apertures623A,623B contiguous with main aperture621. First and second rearward notches617A,617B may be provided in structure615at some distance between a proximal end of structure615adjoining the circular mounting portion602and a distal end of structure615. First and second forward notches619A,619B may be provided in structure615in the distal end of structure615. A channel625may be formed between first and second wire guides627A,627B, which may be short walls formed in the distal end of structure615, spaced apart a suitable distance for the passage of electrical wires therebetween.

FIG. 34illustrates a detail of the wiring618wrapped through the strain relief member614, as illustrated in more detail inFIG. 33. A first electrical wire618A may be electrically coupled to first terminal112A of outlet plate110. A second electrical wire618B may be electrically coupled to second terminal112B of outlet plate110. The first electrical wire618A may be routed from the first terminal112A downward through first rearward notch617A, upward through first auxiliary aperture623A, forward and downward through first forward notch619A, upward through main aperture621, and forward through passage625formed between guides627A and627B. The second electrical wire618B may be routed from the second terminal112B downward through second rearward notch617B, upward through second auxiliary aperture623B, forward and downward through second forward notch619B, upward through main aperture621, and forward through passage625formed between guides627A and627B.FIG. 35shows another view of an exemplary mounting apparatus, such as fifth mounting apparatus600, in perspective illustrating the area in which the strain relief member614may be located at the center front of a mounting apparatus, such as the fifth mounting apparatus600.FIG. 36illustrates a detail of the wiring618wrapped through the strain relief member614, and may be essentially the same as that described with respect toFIG. 32viewed from an underside thereof.

Turning now toFIGS. 37-38, a sixth mounting apparatus700for an audio exciter100, is shown in multiple perspective representations supporting audio exciter100. The sixth mounting apparatus700may be configured to extend the interior width of a model vehicle body, from side-to-side, for example, and support the audio exciter100from its back side, or housing106(FIG. 1A) at a suitable distance from the body of the model vehicle such that the adhesive ring108of the audio exciter100may be affixed to a panel, such as a windshield, of the model vehicle body. The sixth mounting apparatus700may have a mount702having a mounting portion703for supporting the audio exciter100. The mounting portion703may be supported by at least one transverse supporting arm704extending the interior width of a model vehicle body. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 38, two transverse supporting arms704and706extend from the mounting portion703, and terminate in mounting plates708and710. The audio exciter100may be secured into the mounting portion703by retention members such as screws716installed around the perimeter of the audio exciter100, or retained by retention members such as detents as described above with respect toFIGS. 2, 5, 6, and9, for example. As shown inFIG. 39andFIG. 40, and with reference toFIG. 38, the mounting plates708and710may be secured to the interior portion of a model vehicle body by any suitable mechanical means using mounting holes712, and the adhesive ring108on the central ring body114of audio exciter100may affix to an interior panel of a model vehicle body1. A strain relief feature714may be a loop-like structure provided in a sixth mounting apparatus700, for wrapping wiring through the feature714to form a strain relief.FIG. 40shows the sixth mounting apparatus700mounted to a front portion of the underside of model vehicle body1, behind the windshield2of the model vehicle body1.

The sixth mounting apparatus700may allow the audio exciter100to move its voice coil at full-throw, but not allow the flexible element102(FIG. 1A) to be damaged during impacts or extreme operating conditions. Because of the relatively long transverse supporting arms704and706, the audio exciter100has a larger area and wider portion of the body to excite. As a result, the sound produced by audio exciter100and sixth mounting apparatus700is not significantly different from the sound produced by mounting audio exciter100to the body by adhesive ring108alone, such as the “simple flat” configuration ofFIG. 1C.

Turning now toFIGS. 41-44,FIG. 41is a top view of the sixth mounting apparatus700showing the circular mounting portion703for supporting the audio exciter100.FIG. 42is a sectional view of the sixth mounting apparatus700taken along the lines42-42inFIG. 41, and illustrates audio exciter100secured within circular mounting portion703by suitable retention members such as screws712. The central ring body114is shown with broad upper portion116having adhesive mounting ring108affixed thereon. Flexible element102may vibrate freely and respond to electrical signals applied to the audio exciter100.FIG. 43is a front view of the sixth mounting apparatus700.FIG. 44is a bottom view of the sixth mounting apparatus700. As shown inFIG. 45andFIG. 46, the sixth mounting apparatus700may be installed in a front portion of the model vehicle body1, behind the windshield2of the model vehicle body1, and secured with suitable fasteners such screws720.

The audio exciter100may not be fully sealed in the sixth mounting apparatus700, and may be partially exposed to the environment. The internal portions of the audio exciter100are sealed against the entry of contaminants. Using the adhesive ring108on the plastic mounting tab116(FIG. 42) to attach to the model vehicle body1effectively seals the internal portions of the audio exciter100against the entry of contaminants.

Turning now toFIGS. 47-51,FIG. 47is a bottom view of a model vehicle body showing the sixth mounting apparatus700installed in a front position of model vehicle body1, behind the windshield2.FIG. 48is a perspective view of a model vehicle body showing the sixth mounting apparatus700installed in a front position of model vehicle body1, behind the windshield2.FIG. 49is a front view of a model vehicle body.FIG. 50is a cross-section of the body for a model vehicle taken along the lines50-50inFIG. 49, showing the sixth mounting apparatus700installed in a front position of model vehicle body1, behind the windshield2.FIG. 51is a detail ofFIG. 50, showing the sixth mounting apparatus700installed in a front position of model vehicle body1, behind the windshield2.

Turning now toFIGS. 52-57, a seventh mounting apparatus800for an audio exciter may be adjustable to fit into different model vehicle bodies having different widths, shapes, or contours, so it can be mounted to many different shapes and sizes of model vehicle bodies. The seventh mounting apparatus800may be adjustable to extend the interior width of different model vehicle bodies having different widths from side-to-side, for example, and support the audio exciter100from its back side, or housing106(FIG. 1A) at a suitable distance from the body of the model vehicle1such that the adhesive ring108of the audio exciter100may be affixed to a panel of the model vehicle body1. The seventh mounting apparatus800may have mounting portion802for supporting the audio exciter100. Suitable fasteners, such as screws808, may secure the audio exciter100to the circular mounting portion802as described hereinbefore. The mounting portion802may be supported by at least one transverse supporting arm804extending at least a portion of the interior width of a model vehicle body.

In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 52-53, two transverse supporting arms804A and804B may extend from the mounting portion802, and may terminate in bosses824A,824B for supporting mounting plates806A and806B. In an aspect of the invention, the two transverse supporting arms804A and804B may extend a certain distance depending upon the lengths of transverse supporting arms804A and804B, which may be formed at a particular length for use in a particular circumstance or incidence. In an aspect of the invention, the two transverse supporting arms804A and804B may extend a variable distance depending upon their position within circular mounting portion802and retention thereat by mounting screws812A,812B.

More particularly, with reference toFIG. 53, the supporting arm804A may be inserted into a first receiving channel814A formed within a first transverse receiving portion816A of mounting portion802. The first receiving channel814A may be a regular cavity within a structure of a first transverse receiving portion816A supported by at least one extending member, such as wall818A. The first transverse receiving portion816A may have a boss820A having a threaded aperture822A therethrough for receiving mounting screw812A. In an embodiment as shown, the first receiving channel814A may be a regular cavity in the respect that its internal cross-sectional shape is continuous through a certain distance. A similar transverse receiving portion816B of mounting portion802may be provided on an opposite side of the mounting portion802from the first transverse receiving portion816A, and may include correspondingly similar or identical features such as a second receiving channel814B, which may be a regular cavity within a structure of the second transverse receiving portion816B, having a boss820B having a threaded aperture822B therethrough for receiving mounting screw812B. The internal cross-sectional shape of the regular cavity may correspond to the external cross-sectional shape of transverse supporting arm804A,804B. In an aspect of the invention, the transverse supporting arms804A,804B may be secured in a desired position by aligning a passage828A,828B formed through supporting arm804A,804B with threaded aperture822A,822B formed in bosses820A,820B, inserting screws812through passages828A,828B and threading into threaded apertures822A,822B.

In an embodiment as shown inFIGS. 52-53, the seventh mounting apparatus800may be provided with end plates806A,806B for securing the seventh mounting apparatus800to an interior portion of a model vehicle, or other suitable location. As best illustrated with respect to end plate806A, end plates806A,806B may have apertures830in outward-facing surfaces thereof, which may be threaded for receiving a suitable fastener. As shown best with respect to end plate806B, such apertures830may be passages through bosses832protruding inwardly from an inward surface of end plates806B,806A. Such apertures may be arranged in a pattern. The pattern may be standard pattern, reproducible in one or more different model vehicle bodies. The end plates806A,806B may be secured to their respective supporting arms,804A,804B, by suitable fasteners such as screws810A,810B. As best illustrated with respect to end plate806B, end plates806A,806B may have at least one mounting structure834(FIG.53), which may be a protruding structure providing an aperture836therethrough. As shown inFIG. 50, the end plates806A,806B may have mounting structures834at spaced-apart locations on an inward-facing side thereof, corresponding to a length of mounting bosses8024A,824B. Spaced-apart mounting structures834may be aligned with mounting bosses824A,824B such that apertures836may be aligned with passages838A,838B, and the end plates806A,806B secured to supporting arms804A,804B by suitable fasteners, such as screws810A,810B. In an embodiment, end plates806A,806B may be pivotably adjustable around mounting boss824A,824B and mounting screw810A,810B. In an embodiment, end plates806A,806B, may be secured at a particular angle with respect to support arm804A,804B. In an embodiment, end plates806A,806B, may be secured at a particular angle by tightening screw810A,810B.

Turning now toFIGS. 54-57,FIG. 54is a top view of the seventh mounting apparatus800showing the mounting portion802for supporting the audio exciter100. Audio exciter100may be secured to mounting portion802by retention members such as screws808. End plates806A,806B may be mounted to distal ends of support arms804A,804B, which may be secured within transverse mounting portions816A,816B by suitable fasteners passing through mounting bosses820A,820B.FIG. 55is a sectional view of the seventh mounting apparatus800taken along the lines55-55inFIG. 54, and illustrates audio exciter100secured within mounting portion802by retention members808, which may be any suitable mechanical fasteners such as screws. The central ring body114is shown with broad upper portion116having adhesive mounting ring108affixed thereon. Flexible element102may vibrate freely and respond to electrical signals applied to the audio exciter100. A portion of end plate806B may be seen affixed to support arm804B wherein a proximal end of support arm804B may be secured within the channel814B.FIG. 56is a front view of the seventh mounting apparatus800, illustrating the audio exciter100secured within mounting portion802by suitable fasteners such as screws808. End plates806A,806B are shown as pivotably mounted to bosses824A,824B on the ends of support arms804A,804B, respectively.FIG. 57is a bottom view of the seventh mounting apparatus800. End plates806A,806B may be mounted to distal ends of support arms804A,804B, wherein proximal ends of support arms804A,804B may be secured within transverse receiving portions816A,816B by suitable fasteners such as screws810A,810B.

As shown inFIG. 55, the audio exciter100may be secured into the mounting portion802by retention members such as screws808installed around the perimeter of the audio exciter100, or retained by retention members such as detents as described above with respect toFIGS. 2, 5, and 6, for example.FIG. 55is a cross-sectional view that illustrates audio exciter100secured within mounting portion802by suitable fasteners such as screws808. The central ring body114is shown with broad upper portion116having adhesive mounting ring108affixed thereon. Flexible element102may vibrate freely and respond to electrical signals applied to the audio exciter100. Referring toFIGS. 56-57, the mounting plates806A and806B may be secured to the interior portion of a model vehicle body by any suitable mechanical means, and the adhesive ring108on the central ring body114(FIG. 55) of audio exciter100may affix to an interior panel of a model vehicle body in a manner similar to that shown inFIG. 21-26with respect to fifth mounting apparatus600or inFIG. 43-46with respect to sixth mounting apparatus700.

Turning now toFIGS. 58-63, an eighth mounting apparatus900may be generically designed to be installed in any one of several model vehicle bodies. The eighth mounting apparatus900may embody a more universal design that may be used on any suitable surface of a model vehicle body.

As shown inFIGS. 58-59, an embodiment of an eighth mounting apparatus900may be a generically-designed, eighth mounting apparatus900, which may have four bosses924, spaced apart at four corners of a rectangle formed by the corners of the eighth mounting apparatus900for attaching the eighth mounting apparatus900to a model vehicle body.

More particularly, and with respect toFIG. 58, the eighth mounting apparatus900may have mounting portion902for supporting the audio exciter100. Suitable retention members, such as screws910, may secure the audio exciter100to the mounting portion902as described hereinbefore. The mounting portion902may be supported by at least one transverse supporting arm904or906extending a given width, to be received within a model vehicle body. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 58-63, there may be at least two forwardly-placed transverse supporting arms904A,904B extending from the circular mounting portion902and forming at least one transverse supporting arm904. In an embodiment, the at least one, forwardly-placed transverse supporting arm904may extend the approximate width of the interior portion of the model vehicle body in which the eighth mounting apparatus900is intended to be placed. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 58-63, there may be at least two rearwardly-placed transverse supporting arms906A,906B extending from the mounting portion902and forming at least one transverse supporting arm906. In an embodiment, the at least one, rearwardly-placed transverse supporting arm906may extend the approximate width of the interior portion of the model vehicle body in which the eighth mounting apparatus900is intended to be placed. Each of the transverse supporting arms904A,904B and906A,906B may support an integrally-formed boss924at a distal end thereof, and two adjacent bosses, such as bosses924A and924B, and such as bosses924C and924D, may be interconnected by an integrally formed wall905A,905B. The four bosses924may therefore be spaced apart at four corners of a rectangle formed by the corners of the eighth mounting apparatus900for attaching the eighth mounting apparatus900to a model vehicle body. The bosses924A,924B924C,924D may be provided with passages926A,926B,926C,926D, respectively, extending lengthwise through the middle of the bosses924A,924B924C,924D for receiving suitable fasteners or other mounting hardware as desired. The passages926A,926B,926C,926D may be threaded for receiving mounting screws.

With respect toFIG. 59, the audio exciter100may be placed into mounting portion902and secured using suitable fasteners such as screws910. Adhesive ring108may be affixed to the top surface116of the audio exciter100. The eighth mounting apparatus900may be installed into a model vehicle body adapting to the provisions of bosses924A,924B924C,924D.

Turning now toFIGS. 60-63,FIG. 60is a top view of the eighth mounting apparatus900showing the mounting portion902for supporting the audio exciter100. Audio exciter100may be secured to mounting portion902by retention members such as screws910. Distal ends of support arms904A,904B and906A,906B may support mounting bosses924A,924B,924C, and924D.FIG. 61is a sectional view of the eighth mounting apparatus900taken along the lines61-61inFIG. 60, and illustrates audio exciter100secured within mounting portion902by suitable retention members such as screws910. The central ring body114is shown with broad upper portion116having adhesive mounting ring108affixed thereon. Flexible element102may vibrate freely and respond to electrical signals applied to the audio exciter100.FIG. 62is a front view of the eighth mounting apparatus900, illustrating the audio exciter100secured within mounting portion902by suitable retention members such as such as screws910.FIG. 63is a bottom view of the eighth mounting apparatus900, which may be secured to a model vehicle body utilizing passages926A-926D as formed through mounting bosses924A-924D, respectively, using any suitable hardware.

As shown inFIG. 61, the audio exciter100may be secured into the circular mounting portion902by retention members such as screws910installed around the perimeter of the audio exciter, or retained by retention members such as detents as described above with respect toFIGS. 2, 5, and 6, for example. Referring toFIGS. 62-63, the eighth mounting apparatus900may be secured to the interior portion of a model vehicle body by any suitable mechanical means, and the adhesive ring108on the central ring body114of audio exciter100may affix to an interior panel of a model vehicle body in a manner similar to that shown inFIG. 22-26orFIG. 29-31with respect to fifth mounting apparatus600or inFIGS. 39-40andFIG. 45-51with respect to sixth mounting apparatus700.

Each of the preceding embodiments of mounting apparatus for an audio exciter100provide different levels of protection, mounting and quality of sound for an audio exciter for use in a model vehicle. Several of the preceding embodiments600-900feature mounting arms extending from a simple, circular mount similar to embodiment200. It should be understood that each of the embodiments600-900featuring mounting arms may utilize one of the more complex circular mounts300-500in the central mounting position for the audio exciter100. Each embodiment and variation thereof allows for the audio exciter100to be moved from one model vehicle body to another model vehicle body. Also, each of the embodiments of mounting apparatus allow individual mounting components to be replaced or changed if damaged and still be able to use the same exciter. The embodiments of mounting apparatus disclosed herein allow for a single type of exciter to be easily installed on several different types of model vehicle bodies, and at many different locations while still allowing for a very durable and reliable operation in varied types of environments and driving operations.

Electrical Operation

A Radio Control (R/C) vehicle sound simulation system may utilize user input from a Radio Control (R/C) vehicle transmit controller, together with vehicle state, to generate realistic vehicle sounds. An R/C vehicle transmit controller may include a plurality of control channels. For example, in an embodiment, the vehicle transmit controller may recognize different control channels dedicated to steering control (Channel1), throttle control (Channel2), clutch control (Channel3), sound system control (Channel4), and the like. In alternative embodiments, fewer, additional, or different control channels may be implemented. Further, a single control channel may perform more than one control function, or, alternatively, more than one control channel may perform the same control functions.

In an embodiment, control may be implemented using one or more switches, one or more potentiometers, or other like components. Alternatively, in an embodiment, a combination of such components may be utilized to control the sound simulation system.

A fourth (4th) control channel, Channel4, may be provided to implement sound simulation system control. The fourth (4th) control channel may be used to remotely control the sound simulation system. For example, the fourth (4th) control channel may be used to activate or deactivate the sound simulation system, to adjust the volume, or other similar control operations.

In an alternative embodiment, sound simulation system control may be implemented through user input through another control channel, such as Channel3, for example, based on how the user provides the input to Channel3. The sound simulation system may be implemented with logic to interpret specific user inputs, such as switch toggling and the like, as a control command controlling the sound system.

For example, a quick double-toggle of a two-position switch may turn on or turn off the sound. Referring toFIGS. 64 and 65, in an embodiment, with the switch in position B, the user may toggle to A, to B, to A and then back to B. If the switch is toggled in such a manner within a specified time period, perhaps within 1 second, the OBA module1302may be programmed to interpret the input as a command to turn on or turn off the sound system. A triple toggle, quadruple toggle, etc. may alternatively be used.

This manner of control, through toggling, may also be used for other control methods. For example, toggling, or another similar user input, may be interpreted to command the OBA module1302to cycle through a plurality of preset volume settings. For example, the OBA module1302may store predefined settings corresponding to a plurality of volume levels, such as 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% volume.

Turning now toFIG. 64, an audio system1300for a model vehicle may comprise an On-Board Audio (OBA) controller module1302, which controls operation of the audio exciter100. To interface with a user, the OBA controller module1302may be provided with certain controls and indicators, for example: a “Power” button1304, a “Volume Up” button1306, a “Volume Down” button1308, and an LED indicator1310of some color, such as green, for example. The OBA module1302may receive signals from a receiver1312, for example, a Throttle signal1314may be recognized on a first control channel (Channel2), and a Clutch signal1316may be recognized on a second control channel (Channel3). The OBA module1302may provide the Throttle signal1318to an Electronic Speed Control (ESC) module1320. The OBA module1302and the ESC module1320may both receive operating power from a Battery (BAT)1322via suitable electrical conductors1324. The OBA module1302may be connected to the audio exciter100via suitable electrical conductors1326. In an embodiment, the OBA module1302may produce audio signals for reproduction by the audio exciter100based upon the input Throttle signal1314and the input Clutch signal1316, and may also provide a Throttle signal1318to ESC module1320. The volume level of the audio output may be adjusted by a user by pressing either the Volume Up button1306or the Volume Down button1308. The OBA module1302may be turned on or off by pressing the Power button1304. An operating condition of the OBA module1302may be indicated by the LED indicator1310, for example, the LED indicator1310may be lit to indicate the OBA module1302is on, and may change color to indicate proper or faulty operating conditions. For example, proper operation of the OBA module1302may be indicated by a green LED indicator1310that is lit.

Neutral Engine Effects

Certain vehicle sound simulations may be made to sound more realistic in situations in which the vehicle's engine is decoupled from the rest of the drivetrain, such as when the transmission is in neutral or when the clutch is depressed. For example, the sound of the engine starting or the sound of the engine revving while in neutral will add to the realism of the vehicle sound simulation. Also, the behavior of a vehicle may be different in certain situations, such as revving the engine while in neutral, for example, than the behavior of a vehicle when the same engine activity is conducted while coupled to the drive train, or not in neutral.

Turning now toFIGS. 66 and 67block diagrams illustrate a process which allows the electric motor control to be bypassed in certain situations. As shown inFIG. 66, a Radio Control (R/C) vehicle transmit controller2000may have an additional channel on the transmitter, represented as Channel3inFIG. 64-65. A switch2002on the transmit controller2000may be used to operate Channel3. Using the Channel3, “Clutch” channel, the user may “decouple the engine from the drivetrain”, simulating the selection of a neutral gear, or depressing of the clutch. In addition, a vehicle simulation system may change its behavior from a normal moving vehicle sound simulation in at least one of two ways:the simulation may mix audio recordings taken from the target vehicle in neutral. These “unloaded” engine recordings have a different timbre from the driving “loaded” engine sounds; andthe simulation may use a different mathematical function which more closely simulates the unloaded engine responding to the driver revving the engine for determining audio parameters such as the loudness of the audio signal to be reproduced by the audio exciter100.

As shown inFIG. 65, receiver1312, may output a Throttle signal1314on Channel2, and a “Clutch” signal1316on Channel3. The Throttle signal1314and the Clutch signal1316may be conveyed to the On-Board Audio (OBA) module1302via any suitable electrical conveyance. In an embodiment, the Throttle signal1314may be provided to a Vehicle Simulation Module1350and to a switching element1362within the OBA module1302. The Vehicle Simulation Module1350may be configured to generate engine sounds and other motor vehicle sounds in dependence upon the magnitude and direction of the Throttle signal1314, which may be understood to range from positive values representing magnitude in one direction, such as forward, to negative values representing magnitude in an opposite direction, such as reverse. It may be understood that a zero magnitude in the Throttle signal1314represents an idle condition analogous to an engine idling. The engine sounds and other motor vehicle sounds may be generated within the Vehicle Simulation Module1350, or may be pre-recorded engine sounds and other motor vehicle sounds in different states of operation such as idling, revving in neutral, accelerating, traveling at a given speed, decelerating, and the like stored within the Vehicle Simulation Module1350. The engine sounds may be amplified and thereafter reproduced by audio exciter100(FIG. 64). The Clutch signal1316may be provided to a Motor Bypass Module1360, and may be understood to range from a first value corresponding to a clutch being engaged, to a second value corresponding to a clutch being disengaged. For example, the Clutch signal1316may be controlled by a two-position switch2002(FIG. 16) on an R/C remote controller2000(FIG. 65), whereas the Throttle signal is typically controlled by a trigger movable in forward and reverse directions and capable of producing a wider range of values. As shown inFIG. 65, the Clutch signal1316is at the first value corresponding to a clutch being engaged, and the Motor Bypass Module1360controls switching element1362to apply the original Throttle signal1314as throttle signal1318, which is conveyed to the Electronic Speed Control (ESC) module1320.

As shown inFIG. 66, the Clutch signal1316is at the second value corresponding to a clutch being disengaged. The Motor Bypass Module1360may control switching element1362to disconnect the original Throttle signal1314from the ESC module1320and instead may apply a substitute neutral signal1364as throttle signal1318which may be conveyed to the Electronic Speed Control (ESC) module1320. The substitute neutral signal1364may command the ESC module1320to sit and remain idle. A command to remain idle may be the same exact signal to the ESC module1320that is sent when the throttle trigger is at neutral and the Throttle signal1314is at zero magnitude, and when the Channel3Clutch switch is in a Position A and generating the first value corresponding to a clutch being engaged. However, when the Channel3Clutch switch is in a Position B and generating the second value corresponding to a clutch being disengaged, the Motor Bypass Module1360may not provide a signal to the ESC commanding that braking or power be applied to the motor. If the model vehicle is rolling in this situation, it will coast; eventually slowing to a stop due to friction, rolling resistance and/or objects in the path of the vehicle. In the meantime, the Vehicle Simulation Module1350may generate engine sounds in dependence upon a magnitude and direction of the throttle signal.

Dynamic Fall Off Sounds

Powerful full-sized engines have a range of dynamic sounds which can be heard when throttling down, or changing from one throttle level to another, lower throttle level. These dynamic sounds (such as popping, gurgling, backfire, etc.) may not be easily generated by the Vehicle Simulation system1350(FIGS. 65-66). In these cases, the accuracy of the simulation may be enhanced by including playback of actual recordings of a corresponding full-sized vehicle when throttle is reduced. This process may utilize recordings of the full-sized vehicle in which the vehicle begins at a target RPM and throttle is reduced causing the engine to drop the RPM level at a given rate. These “Ramp Clips” may be recorded at different rates.

Turning now toFIG. 67, the Vehicle Simulation System1350may have an RPM Estimator1352responsive to the Throttle signal1314. An output signal1353representing the RPM estimate may be provided to an Engine Load Estimator1354, to a Recording Selector1356, and to an Effect Selector1358. A mixer1360may combine signals from the Engine Load Estimator1354, the Recording Selector1356, and the Effect Selector1358. An output signal1326may be provided at audio output1362and amplified to drive the audio exciter100.

In a Recording Selector1356process, an RPM estimate1353may be used to determine whether the vehicle is experiencing engine deceleration, or dropping from one RPM level to a lower RPM level, as illustrated graphically inFIG. 68. The Recording Selector1356may estimate the rate at which engine deceleration may be occurring. As shown inFIG. 68, curve1602represents a typical RPM estimate over time, in which the RPM estimate begins at a certain rate1604, experiences a first period of deceleration1606, separated by a period of constant RPM estimate1608, experiences a second period of deceleration1610, and ends at a lower RPM estimate1612than the beginning RPM estimate1604. Engine deceleration may be detected from descending portions1606and1610of curve1602representing RPM estimate over time. An estimate of the rate of engine deceleration for each descending portion of the curve1602may be used to select a Ramp Clip recording which most closely matches the RPM reduction rate in each instance.

The Ramp Clip recordings may then be passed into a mixer1360to overlay on top of the audio output of the Vehicle Simulation Module1350to provide realistic fall off sounds to the vehicle simulation. Regarding the overlay, a sound simulation algorithm may generate its own engine fall off sound in response to the falling RPM's. This may be done by mixing the “loaded” and “unloaded” engine recordings at each RPM level being passed through as the engine decelerates.

On top of this, the mixer1360may overlay an actual recording of the engine decelerating. The volume of the actual recording (v) may be larger than the volume of the simulation playback (MAX VOLUME—v), giving more preference to the actual recording of the engine decelerating.

When selecting the actual recording, there may be several recordings to choose from for each rate. The actual, full-sized engines never sound exactly the same each time, therefore, several Ramp Clips may be recorded at each rate and then randomly selected to add to the realism of the simulation.

The Vehicle Simulation System1350, using audio recordings from an actual, full-sized vehicle, may match the behavior of the actual full-sized vehicle by offering random sound behavior during Dynamic Fall-Off conditions described above, and by providing Neutral Engine Effects as described previously herein, generating or modulating engine sounds in dependence upon a magnitude and direction of the throttle signal.

Simulated Gear Shifting

Most electric-powered vehicles, including R/C model vehicles, use a single-speed transmission. This means there is a fixed drive ratio between the drive motor and the drive wheels. The transmission does not change ratios while the vehicle is accelerating; it does not “shift gears”. The speed of the vehicle will be substantially proportional to the speed of the drive motor. Most people are used to hearing their full sized vehicles “shift gears”, or change drive ratios, since the majority of internal combustion powered full-sized vehicles have multi-speed transmissions. In order to better emulate the sound of said full-sized vehicles, a simulated gear shifting algorithm may be provided into the Vehicle Simulation Module1350logic.

Referring toFIGS. 67 and 69, systems for simulating “gear shifting” are shown. In an embodiment, the Vehicle Simulation Module1350may use an open-loop estimator to determine the RPM Estimate based on the User Inputs, such as throttle direction, throttle magnitude, clutch state, and the like. Additionally the Vehicle Simulation Module1350may have a set of observers which use the RPM estimate and User Inputs to determine other vehicle properties like the Vehicle State and Gear State, for example. Audio output1326may be modulated by Vehicle Simulation Module1350in dependence upon the Vehicle State and the Gear State.

The Vehicle State may be one or more of the following: Idle, Neutral, Driving Forward, Driving Backwards, Braking, Startup, Shutoff, or the like. The Gear State may be one or more of the following: First Gear, Second Gear, Third Gear, Neutral, Reverse, or the like.

The vehicle observer may use the RPM estimate and throttle to determine the Vehicle State. The gear observer may use the output of the vehicle observer (the Vehicle State) and the RPM estimate to determine the gear behavior and the Gear State. For example, if the Vehicle State is observed to be “Driving Backwards,” the vehicle may be implemented with logic that may assume the Gear State is Reverse. Similarly, logic may be implemented to assume that the Gear State is Neutral when the vehicle observer determines the Vehicle State is Idle or Neutral.

Logic may further be implemented to assume the vehicle to be in First Gear when transitioning to forward motion from a stop, or when transitioning from backward motion to forward motion. Logic assuming the First Gear state may also be implemented during times when the vehicle is moving forward and the RPM Estimate is below a predetermined value, say 8000 RPM, for example.

As shown inFIG. 70, logic may be implemented assuming the onset of the Second Gear state upon the RPM Estimate exceeding the predetermined threshold value defining the upper limit of the First Gear state (8000 RPM, for example) upon the expiration of a predetermined amount of time (200 ms, for example).

Upon transitioning the Gear State from First Gear to Second Gear, the RPM Estimate may reduce the RPM estimate value. For example, if the transition from First Gear to Second Gear state is triggered upon the RPM estimate exceeding 8000 RPM, then the RPM may be reduced to 6500 RPM during the transition to Second Gear. The amount of RPM drop may be set at a predefined value that creates a “drop off” sound accurately emulating that of an actual gear shift in a multi-gear vehicle. Over time, the RPM may increase while the Gear State remains in Second Gear. Engine sounds corresponding to increasing RPM may be produced during this time.

The Gear State may remain in Second Gear until the RPM Estimate again exceeds a predefined threshold value for a predefined amount of time with the vehicle moving forward, or accelerating, while in Second Gear. At the shift point into Third Gear, the RPM Estimate may reduce again, to a lower RPM, in a manner similar to the RPM drop during transition from First Gear to Second Gear. Over time, the RPM may increase while the Gear State remains in Third Gear. Engine sounds corresponding to increasing RPM may be produced during this time. Shifting from Third Gear down to Second Gear may occur when the RPM Estimate drops below a threshold value, say 5600 RPM, for example. Shifting from Second Gear to First Gear may occur when the RPM estimate drops to an extremely low value, near the idle RPM of the vehicle. For each Gear State, the logic implemented in Vehicle Simulation Module1350may modulate engine sounds in dependence upon RPM and the Gear State.

For each Gear State—Neutral, First Gear, Second Gear, Third Gear, and Reverse—a unique RPM Estimate formula may be used to emulate unique characteristics of each Gear State. For example, the RPM Estimate may increase most quickly in First Gear, less quickly in Second Gear, and least quickly in Third Gear. The formula may be a linear or non-linear equation correlating an estimated RPM value to time elapsed, throttle state, or the like. In an embodiment, the RPM value may be derived from a series of asymptotic curves correlating RPM to elapsed time during which the vehicle is moving, or accelerating.