Title: Reduction of roof rack noise and vibration

Authors: Xu Wang, Simon Watkins

Addresses: School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia. ' School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria 3083, Australia

Abstract: The noise and vibration design of automotive add-on component roof rack was investigated. Different modification options were evaluated which include mounting location alteration, mounting damping change and material revision. Results from experimental modal analysis and sound pressure spectrum measurement in a wind tunnel indicate the direction of design modification for reduction of the roof rack noise and vibration. The modal analysis and physical tests of wind tunnel proved to be good tools for evaluating and ranking roof rack noise and vibration performance.

Keywords: vehicle roof racks; roof rack noise; roof rack vibration; vortex shedding; experimental modal analysis; sound pressure spectrum; wind tunnel tests; design modification; mounting location alteration; material revision; automotive roof racks; automobile industry; mounting damping.

DOI: 10.1504/IJVNV.2010.036680

International Journal of Vehicle Noise and Vibration, 2010 Vol.6 No.2/3/4, pp.105 - 117

Published online: 05 Nov 2010 *

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