Patent attributes
Some embodiments are directed to a control system for a sound controller configured to transmit sounds to a vehicle passenger cabin. The system includes a downshift sensor configured to detect a downshift of a vehicle transmission, and an accelerator pedal sensor that is configured to detect whether an accelerator pedal is actuated above a predetermined threshold. A controller controls operation of the sound controller in accordance with a sound control logic that is based on vehicle engine mode, transmission gear selection, accelerator pedal position, and vehicle engine speed. The controller also controls operation of the sound controller in accordance with an audible downshift logic if the downshift sensor detects a downshift of the vehicle transmission and the accelerator pedal sensor detects that the accelerator pedal is not actuated above the predetermined threshold, the audible downshift logic controlling the sound controller to enhance engine sound transmitted to the passenger cabin.