Ford have collaborated with Sony Corporation to incorporate the concept of noise-cancelling headphone technology and have developed Ford’s Active Noise Control. By counteracting the noise created by the engine and transmissions with opposing sound waves from the audio system and sound-proofing acoustic glass to reduce the intrusion of wind noise, Ford’s Active Noise Control aims to create a more acoustically enjoyable journey.
“Whether listening to a favourite playlist, tuning into a much-loved station, or simply enjoying a respite from the demands of modern life, the experience of sound – and just as importantly silence – can be a fundamental part of an enjoyable car journey,” said Dr Ralf Heinrichs, supervisor, Noise Vibration Harshness, Ford of Europe.
Active Noise Control is part of a range of innovations for the flagship Ford Mondeo Vignale that enhance sound quality. The Mondeo Vignale also is one of the first European Ford vehicles to benefit from the newly established global Vehicle Harmony team.
“Vehicle interiors are a precious yet complex space with hundreds of carefully positioned individual functional elements, just like instruments in an orchestra. To bring harmony to the customer experience, these instruments must be in tune with one another. That’s where the Vehicle Harmony team comes in,” said Erika Tsubaki, design supervisor, Ford of Europe.
The audio system comprises of 12 high-quality speakers and a DSP amplifier. The Class D amplifier, (which is smaller and requires less power from the car’s electric system than conventional amplifiers) with 10 independent channels, is built for efficiency.
The Mondeo Vignale is produced at the company’s state-of-the-art mega-plant in Valencia, Spain, and hand finished at Ford’s Vignale Centre, where vehicles are subjected to 100 additional tests including the use of a 300m ‘rattle and squeak’ circuit where engineers ensure everything sounds right and components are fitted securely.
Ford also recently introduced an industry -firs test that reflects increasing use of audio streamed via Bluetooth from external devices such as smartphones. A full register of musical notes played through the speakers via the auxiliary port and a wired connection ensures that playback meets the same customer expectations as audio enjoyed through the system’s own CD player and radio.
The Active Noise Control can be found on the newly released Mondeo Vignale and the Ford Edge which is due for 2016 release.
