Application of Design of Experiments to Determine the Leading Contributors to Engine Valvetrain Noise

This paper deals with the application of design of experiments (D.O.E.) to study the effect of nine different design parameters on valvetrain noise. The parameters selected deal with components such as the camshaft, valves, valve springs, rocker arms and cylinder head. The D.O.E. quantifies parameter importance based on overall sound pressure levels measured on a motored Chrysler 3.3L engine.

The study sparked further interest in camshaft design parameters. An attempt was made to determine what camshaft design parameter, valve seating velocity, acceleration, or jerk, was most important in reducing overall valvetrain noise.