Bose Develops QuietComfort Noise-Cancellation System For Cars

Bose has developed a noise-cancellation system designed specifically for vehicles. Called Bose QuietComfort Road Noise Control (RNC), the new technology has been launched to vehicle manufacturers around the globe. The new system joins Bose's existing Engine Harmonic Enhancement and Engine Harmonic Cancellation, offering a variety of technologies to neutralize road sounds in vehicle cabins.

Road noise is a constant problem in vehicle interiors, something auto makers around the world have worked to address with various passive countermeasures. Though some noise dampening systems are quite effective, they have the downside of potentially adding weight to the vehicle, having a negative effect on fuel efficiency. A noise-cancellation system would eliminate that issue.

The Bose QuietComfort RNC utilizes a variety of signal processing software, accelerometers, microphones, and the car's own audio system to neutralize road sounds electronically. The interior microphones monitor the cabin's noise levels, while the accelerometers are mounted on the vehicle's body to measure vibrations and the software uses the data to calculate an acoustic cancellation signal.

The system adapts to road noise levels throughout the trip, adjusting as necessary for changes that result from different road surfaces, speeds, and similar things. Bose plans to collaborate with auto manufacturers to engineer the QuietComfort RNC system for their particular vehicles.

These custom systems will enjoy tuning adjustments that can be quickly applied during development, and they'll also be available for vehicles that don't feature a Bose sound system. Assuming everything goes according to schedule, Bose anticipates QuietComfort RNC being available in production models by the end of 2021.