Prediction of psychoacoustic metrics from suspension induced vibration and road induced noise using transfer path and psychoacoustic analysis techniques

A study was conducted to establish a correlation between the noise and vibration measurements taken outside of the vehicle to noise and psychoacoustic observations inside it. These parameters included roughness and fluctuation strength along with the A-weighted sound pressure level. Acoustic pressure measurements were performed inside a 2004 Chevrolet Epica cabin at the driver's left ear location using conventional microphones and at the passenger's ear position with a binaural head for the evaluation of the resulting sound quality. An accelerometer positioned on the wheel hub was stationary for conducting the entire investigation for vibration acquisition. The ten acquired time signals were used for determining the frequency response functions (FRF) and coherence between the pressure and acceleration excitations from outside the vehicle and the sound pressure obtained inside the cabin.