Application of automotive driving simulators for sound and vibration research

Abstract

Noise vibration harshness (NVH) issues are still a very important topic in the automotive industry, where the avoidance of disturbing noises and the creation of highest acoustical comfort and perceived NVH-quality are important targets. In this context, it is becoming more widely understood that sound and vibration must not only be considered as disturbing elements regarding NVH-comfort. They can be used to develop an acoustic and vibration environment, which positively influences customer satisfaction. The creation of sounds (and vibrations), which give the impression of high product quality, helps manufacturers to stand out against their competitors and to meet increasing requirements. The research of sound and vibration is difficult and numerous methods, theories, and simulations have been developed to obtain a deeper understanding of multi-sensory perception. The present paper reviews current sound and vibration studies and introduces established as well as novel concepts and theories. Moreover, the meaning of driving simulators for sound and vibration studies will be discussed. Finally, experimental results will be shown to underline the complexity and future challenges in the scope of automotive applications regarding multi-sensory perception. Overall, it was found that evaluations differ depending on context and test situation; even the presented stimuli are almost identical. Such effects have to be considered with respect to the selection of the test method and test surrounding as well as concerning the interpretation of test results.

Keywords

Keywords noise vibration harshness acoustical comfort driving simulator

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