Optimization of Noise Transfer Path Based on the Composite Panel Acoustic and Modal Contribution Analysis

The noise of a cab directly affects the comfort and labor efficiency of the operators. The optimization of the structure-borne transmission path can obviously reduce the cab noise. The method of panel acoustic contribution analysis (PACA) is used to reduce structure noise. However, most studies only consider the panel acoustic contribution of a single frequency, without considering the contribution of major frequencies synthesis to confirm the optimized panels. In this paper, a novel method is proposed based on composite panel acoustic and modal contribution analysis and noise transfer path optimization in a vibro-acoustic model. First, the finite element model (FEM) and the acoustic model are established. Based on the acoustic transfer vector (ATV) method, a composite panel acoustic contribution analysis method is proposed to identify the panels affecting the noise of the field point. Combined with the modal acoustic contribution of the modal acoustic transfer vector (MATV) method, the noise field point is confirmed in the area which has the most significant influence. Second, the optimization algorithm NLOPT which is a nonlinear optimization is applied to design the areas. The noise transfer path optimization with vibroacoustic coupling response can quickly determine the optimal thickness of the panels and reduce low-frequency noise. The effectiveness of the proposed method is applied and verified in an excavator cab. The sound pressure level (SPL) the driver’s right ear (DRE) decreased obviously. The acoustic analysis of the composite panel acoustic contribution and modal acoustic contribution can more accurately recognize an optimized area than the traditional PACA. This method can be applied in the optimization of the structure-borne transmission path for construction machinery cab and vehicle body.