An Efficient Approach to Powertrain Sound Quality Decision Making Based on Interactive Evaluations Using an NVH Simulator

Traditionally, powertrain sound quality targets have been set by making judgements about wide open throttle acceleration sounds played in a listening room.

This paper describes a recent project in which fourteen target sounds were evaluated against twenty-six existing cars including competitors and current models, using the interactive NVH Simulator approach. It explains how a minimum data method, based on existing historical data, was used to create and validate a simulator model for each car which could be freely-driven but had a limited driving envelope.

The study highlights the role of key programme decision makers and summarises the benefits offered by interactivity in the process of developing, evaluating and signing off vehicle sound quality targets.