Tech Blog: Using Simulation to Minimize Vehicle Acoustics

Vehicle acoustics play a significant role in determining passengers’ overall comfort and ride quality. Unwanted noise can be an essential source of discomfort and distraction and affect the vehicle’s safety. However, simulation can be a valuable tool in minimizing vehicle acoustics for a quieter ride. 

One way to use simulation is to model the acoustic properties of the vehicle’s interior. This can help predict how sounds travel through the cabin and identify areas where noise can be reduced. Engineers can use this information to make changes to the design of the vehicle’s interior, such as adding sound-deadening materials or changing the shape of the cabin. 

Another approach is to use simulation to model the exterior of the vehicle. This can be used to predict how sounds will be generated by the car, such as from the engine or tires, and identify where noise can be reduced. Engineers can use this information to make changes to the vehicle’s design, such as adding aerodynamic features or using different materials. 

Simulation can also be used to optimize the exhaust system of the vehicle. Exhaust noise can be a significant source of noise inside the car. By simulating different exhaust configurations and testing them under other operating conditions, engineers can find the best design to minimize exhaust noise. 

Additionally, it is essential to validate the simulation results with physical testing. This can be done by building vehicle prototypes and subjecting them to various loading and operating conditions. The results of the physical testing can be compared to the simulation results to ensure that the simulation accurately predicts the vehicle’s behavior. 

Using SIMULIA to help Minimize Vehicle Acoustics for a Quieter Ride

Acoustics software is one of many SIMULIA technologies that can reduce acoustics for a calmer ride. Engineers can simulate and analyze vehicle acoustics using the Acoustic tool to forecast cabin sound and find noise-reduction locations. This software simulates car acoustics using numerical and physical models. It can replicate sound waves in various materials and situations, such as car bodies, windows, and interior surfaces. 

Model The Effects of Sound-Deadening Materials: Engineers can use this software to simulate different types of thickness of sound-deadening materials and determine the most effective way to reduce noise in the vehicle. 

Model The Interior of The Vehicle: Includes the seats, dashboard, and other interior surfaces. The software can forecast how sound will move through the cabin and suggest locations where cabin form or sound-deadening materials can minimize noise. 

Model The Exterior of The Vehicle: The software may also model the car’s exterior, including the engine and tires, to forecast how the vehicle will sound and suggest areas where aerodynamic features or other materials can reduce noise. 

Modal Analysis: This software can also perform modal analysis to determine the vehicle structure’s natural frequencies and anticipate its response to varied loads and operating situations. This can be used to discover vibration issues and make design changes to alleviate them. 

Visualization Tools: The simulation results can be visualized in the software, providing engineers with a clear understanding of the acoustic behavior of the vehicle and allowing them to make informed decisions about how to reduce noise. 

In conclusion, simulation, such as SIMULIA’s Acoustic software, can be a powerful tool to minimize vehicle acoustics for a quieter ride. Using simulation to model the acoustic properties of the vehicle’s interior and exterior and to optimize the exhaust system, engineers can identify areas where noise can be reduced and adjust the design before physical prototypes are built. It is essential to validate the simulation results with physical testing to ensure accuracy.