Speech synthesis IC designed for EV AVAS sounds

21st February 2024

Mick Elliott

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Datasheet

Authorised distributor Mouser Electronics is now shipping the ML22120 automotive-grade speech synthesis LSI IC from ROHM Semiconductor.

It is designed for vehicle approach alert systems in electric vehicles (EVs).

The device is claimed to be the industry's first speech synthesis LSI designed specifically for AVAS (Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System) sounds for EVs.

New AVAS regulations require warning sounds to alert pedestrians of EV approach, and this automotive-grade speech synthesis LSI hardware integrates a warning sound generator, a fader, and an equalizer for creating and adjusting playback sounds (like vehicle proximity alert sounds) while simplifying sound adjustment after installation in the vehicle.

At the same time, dedicated GUI software makes it easy to comply with regulations for volume and frequency characteristics required for AVAS.

The ML22120 LSI is controlled by simple voice commands, allowing warning sounds to be initiated in less than one-tenth the time of conventional MCU-generated systems.

Unlike MCU-based designs, the ML22120 series hardware configuration eliminates the need for software validation, significantly reducing AVAS development time by leveraging speech synthesis ICs to program high-fidelity sound.

The IC features a 16-bit D/A converter and low-pass filter, producing high-quality sound with a 5-band equalizer for sound-quality effect processing.

Also included is a failure detection function designed to detect abnormalities in communication with the main microcontroller or external oscillator, enhancing vehicle safety and reliability.

The device supports a maximum external serial flash memory of 128 Mbits, with a serial flash memory interface for sound data and the sound data playback function (sound generator).

The RB-D22120TB32 reference board and the SDCK3 sound device control kit 3 are also available from Mouser.

Dedicated GUI software enables easy evaluation of everything from sound generation to correction and trial listening of alert sounds.

Both the device and reference board are available from Mouser Electronics in the EMEA, Americas and Asia Pacific regions.