Predicting Impedance of Automobile Seats

We report on a finite element analysis generated estimate of the vibration transfer function across seat cushions loaded with a butt form shaped platen.

Two validating cases are considered where cushions were tested using an MTS 810 testing machine and the transfer function estimates were experimentally measured in the 1 to 15 Hz range.

Based on scan data from the existing cushions, finite element models of trimmed cushions were constructed using HyperMesh software. Samples of foam and trim were tested for dynamic stiffness and damping in the same frequency range. Dynamic performance of the trimmed cushions was simulated at the frequencies of interest using ABAQUS finite element software.

A comparison between the estimated and measured results shows that the platen loaded cushion vibration transfer function can be successfully estimated using material testing and finite element simulation techniques.