Applying Six Sigma Tools to the Rear Driveline System for Improved Vehicle Level NVH Performance

This paper presents a case-study application of Taguchi method to driveline NVH analysis using finite element analysis (FEA) model of a Body on Frame (BOF) vehicle. The key mechanics of applying the Taguchi method to a NVH problem are discussed. Also, the benefits of using the Taguchi method as opposed to conventional FEA tools are discussed. Acoustic response at driver's ear and tactile response at steering column and seat track are measured for NVH performance. The goals of the study are to reduce the variation of acoustic and tactile response due to the presence of noise factors.