Application of CAE Analyses for Improved NVH Performance of the New 1992 Econoline

Ford Motor Company has developed a Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) process for predicting NVH performance of its forward model vehicles. This process utilizes simplified models to drive the upstream design effort before detailed drawings are available and then verifies the design with detailed models. The process can be used to determine and evaluate the most effective design modifications and to assist in resolving downstream problems after prototype vehicle evaluations. This paper outlines this process and also gives examples from the work which was done to support the new 1992 Econoline design.