Vibro-acoustic simulation in the automotive field: Adaptive Order FEM approach to high complexity models

Ever more stringent legislation for exterior vehicle noise, with as example the future (2020 European) target for passenger car pass-by noise of less than 70 dB(A), calls for more design and simulation work for car manufacturers and suppliers. Given the geometry and frequency range the simulation models should cover, their time performance is important. To assess the accuracy of the simulation models, a representative plywood mock-up model, representing an engine in an engine bay, was built to obtain reference data. Measurements in different configurations were carried out: with(out) acoustic treatments, opening or closing some apertures in the bay's walls.