Reducing noise and vibration is one of the key issues in modern vehicle design. With NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) analyses, engineers create cars that are more comfortable, safer and meet rigorous standards. How do engineering simulations support the vehicle design process in eliminating unwanted vibration and sound?
Optimising structures to reduce vibration and noise is one of the key aspects of modern vehicle design. NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) vibration and acoustic tests play an important role in vehicle engineering. They provide higher driving comfort, better safety and lower noise levels. Manufacturers have to comply with increasingly rigorous noise and vibration emission standards. Therefore, NVH tests are becoming an indispensable part of the vehicle design process. Such investigations enable a thorough analysis of car noise and vibration sources so that they can be eliminated or reduced.
Vibration and noise tests – both by measurements and virtual – are crucial at every stage of vehicle design, from early prototypes to final production versions. NVH engineers conduct vibration analyses that include assessing the vibrations generated by the engine, exhaust system, suspension and other car components. Advanced tools and technologies enable the measurement and calculation of various vehicle operating scenarios to help identify and reduce unwanted vibrations.
Vibroacoustic tests are used to assess noise levels both inside and outside the vehicle. They help optimise sound insulation and improve aerodynamics to reduce road and engine noise. In addition, these studies help to eliminate vibration resonance phenomena in vehicle structural components as well as squeak and rattle between them, which is key to ensure the acoustic comfort for people inside and outside the vehicles.
NVH studies are used in various sectors of the automotive industry, from passenger car design to specialised industries such as commercial vehicle and bus design or rail vehicle design. In each of these cases, vibration and noise analysis allows engineers to better tailor vehicles to meet customer needs and industry standards.
The application of NVH engineering tests and methods in body design allows for improved structural stiffness, resulting in better vibration damping. And in the design of vehicle interiors, these tests help to optimise the materials used for sound insulation or the device selection for active noise reduction (ANR) levels, which improves occupant comfort.
NVH tests also play a key role at the series production stage. They enable manufacturers to monitor the quality of manufactured and assembled components so that production defects can be detected and eliminated. NVH analyses and measurements are particularly important for manufacturers of long operated rail vehicles and work machinery, where precise control of noise and vibration levels is crucial for the safety and durability of vehicles, even up to 40 years.
The preparation of accurate test protocols and the implementation of diagnostic tools on production lines enable early detection of problems and rapid response. As a result, optimum noise and vibration reduction results can be achieved, resulting in higher levels of customer satisfaction.
Conducting vibration and acoustic tests allows companies to create more reliable and comfortable vehicles under limited measurement effort. Reducing noise and vibration not only improves comfort and overall sound ergonomics, but also extends the life of individual components. The use of CAE engineering simulation services and the application of modern diagnostic technologies provide the opportunity to carry out comprehensive analysis and testing early in the design process.
NVH vibration and acoustic testing is a key component of modern automotive engineering. They make it possible to meet increasingly rigorous ergonomic standards in terms of safety, driving comfort and noise levels. At Endego, we offer comprehensive NVH optimisation services to support industrial design and improve production processes. Our advanced diagnostic tools and engineering expertise enable us to create vehicles that meet the highest standards of quality and comfort. Contact us to find out how we can support your automotive, railway or heavy equipment projects.
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