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US 9,316,567 B2Granted
Automotive rattle detection system
OwnerDustin Joinerinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A system for detecting rattles, squeaks and other annoying sounds in a vehicle can include a vibration generator and a clamping device configured to attach to the vehicle.
Claims24
An apparatus for locating a squeak, rattle, or other unwanted noise in a vehicle, the apparatus comprising:
- a vibration generator capable of producing a vibration transmittable to a vehicle, the vibration configured to excite a squeak, rattle, or other unwanted noise in the vehicle, the vibration generator comprising:
- a variable-speed electric motor having a shaft extending therefrom;
- a flywheel attached to the shaft extending from the electric motor;
- and a mass attached to the flywheel, wherein the mass is configured to be movable relative to a centerline axis of the shaft;
- and
- a clamping device attached to the vibration generator and configured to attach to a vehicle.
3 more elements
A method for locating a squeak, rattle, or other unwanted noise in a vehicle, the method comprising:
- attaching to a vehicle an apparatus for producing a squeak, rattle, or other unwanted noise in the vehicle, the apparatus comprising a vibration generator and a clamping device attached to the vibration generator, the clamping device configured to attach to the vehicle, the vibration generator comprising:
- a variable-speed electric motor having a shaft extending therefrom;
- a flywheel attached to the shaft extending from the electric motor;
- and a mass attached to the flywheel, wherein the mass is configured to be movable relative to a centerline axis of the shaft;
- and
- scanning a range of frequencies with the vibration generator by adjusting the speed of the variable speed electric motor, wherein the range of frequencies is between 0 and 20,000 Hz.
3 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.