Modeling of driveline noise using statistical energy analysis

Noise and vibration levels of mechanical systems are historically modeled using differential equation techniques. These modeling techniques have problems describing systems with large numbers of modes. Statistical Energy Analysis is a useful technique for predicting noise and vibration levels for systems with large numbers of modes. Software was developed to model complex multi-modal systems using Statistical Energy Analysis. The utility of the software is demonstrated with the development of an automobile noise model. The computer predictions are compared with experimental results. The noise and vibration levels computed by the software are typically within 10 dB of the experimental results for the modeled components.