100+ Years of Noise and Vibration in the Auto Industry

Over the past 30 years concerns about noise & vibration have become more critical in the design and manufacture of the automobile. Tools, both in physical testing and computer aided engineering have and continue to develop permitting more refined designs. Today’s customer can be very discerning when it comes to vehicle noises and vibrations. However, this is not a new concern for automotive customers or manufactures. This paper highlights the drive from automotive manufacturers to promote quiet, smooth and vibrationless operation of their products as well as some of the advances in vehicle component design over the past 100+ years. This is not an exhaustive study, but rather the intent is to bring to light the long history of noise and vibration in the automotive industry and its importance to the customers even in the infancy of the auto industry.