Skoda is using an AI-powered sound analyzer to identify the need for car servicing.

Skoda Auto Digital Lab is testing a new smartphone app called Sound Analyser. It uses artificial intelligence to identify whether the car needs servicing. The app is trained to compare the noise made from a running vehicle with a stored library of sound patterns. The artificial intelligence algorithm determines what the problem is after identifying any discrepancies between the actual noise from the car and what it should be. (SteelGuru)

Sound Analyser

The algorithm inside Sound Analyser is able to recognize 10 sound patterns, with an accuracy of over 90%. These span vehicle systems such as steering, air conditioning, and clutch.

The app converts the recorded audio file into a spectrogram of the acoustic signals. This visual depiction of the actual noise is compared with stored recordings to highlight any maintenance issues.

The program also considers various parameters regarding the vehicle and its usage profile. It is also able to assess the present condition of parts that wear out quickly.

The AI algorithm also has the potential for further learning from future testing.

According to Skoda, Sound Analyser dramatically reduces the time a car spends in a garage, makes vehicle maintenance much more efficient, and achieves better customer satisfaction.

NEXEN Tire uses AI to reduce tire noise

In another interesting application of artificial intelligence in automobiles, Nexen Tire America (KRX: 002350) plans to use the technology, along with big data, to reduce the noise from its tires. (Traction)

The company designed an anechoic chamber (pictured below) that contained a large number of microphone sensors to measure, analyze, and detect the causes of the noise from the car’s powertrain. The sensors also pick up the Pass-By noise of the car.

“What we’ve discovered is that nearly all drivers want a quieter driving experience. This system has provided valuable scientific information about tire noise and based on that information, we’ve developed an industry-exclusive manufacturing process to reduce tire noise using AI technology,” said John Hagan, executive vice president of sales for Nexen Tire America, Inc.

Related Story:      Spanish Insurer Settles Auto Claims Using Tractable AI