A Study of Vehicle Interior Noise Using Statistical Energy Analysis

The noise and vibration of an automotive vehicle is studied using Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA). Three sources of interior noise - the engine, tires, and air flow - have been measured and used as inputs to the SEA model. The flow of acoustic energy through various structural components is calculated in order to determine the dominant paths of noise transmission to the passenger compartment. The predicted interior noise levels are compared to those measured under different operating conditions. The SEA model also evaluates the expected variation of the interior noise as the result of changes in the design configuration of the vehicle.