Simulation-based design of a steerable acoustic warning device to increase (H)EV detectability while reducing urban noise pollution

This paper describes the simulation-based design methodology used in the eVADER project for the development of targeted acoustic warning devices for increased detectability of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (HEVs) while, at the same time, reducing urban noise pollution compared to conventional acoustic pedestrian warning systems. A key component of this system is an external warning signal generator capable of projecting the warning signals to a contained area in front of the vehicle where potential at-risk situations are detected. Using acoustic beam forming principles a suitable warning strategy and an initial layout for realizing such a system is defined. Starting from this information, acoustic Finite and Boundary Element models of the transducer array allow assessing more realistically the performance impact of the system integration and of the most critical changes in the acoustic environment in which the signal generator needs to operate.