Engine Calibration Impacts on the Exhaust Tailpipe Noise during Air Conditioning with Fixed Displacement Compressor Operation

Increasingly, the auto industry has been challenged to meet its financial needs to remain competitive. Customer comfort needs in regard to the Vehicle Interior Noise levels are also remarkable. The application of fixed displacement air conditioning compressors and low cost exhaust system in vehicles to meet the programs cost targets generated a series of notorious and undesirable effects to the customer. The noise perception of the compressor coupling during its operation cycle is one of them. This happens in some specific situations and varies with weather and engine operating conditions. The vehicle used in this study presented a boom noise coming from the exhaust tailpipe during the AC compressor coupling phase. This noise was attenuated to satisfactory levels in regard to consumer perception with only a change in engine calibration strategy.