The increasing popularity and growing offering of electric vehicles (EVs), are changing many aspects associated with vehicle sound and acoustics (see our posts related to the in-cabin soundscape of the EV, for example). The classic issue of pass-by noise testing is no exception. Still a crucial aspect of automotive design and regulation, it has evolved to ensure that EVs (and other vehicles) not only meet the maximum noise limits set by various national and international regulations, but also adhere to new minimum noise requirements.
At GRAS Sound & Vibration, we’re always proud and honored whenever we see cool examples of our solutions contributing to new developments and real-world change. This time, it’s in the field of hearing protection. An article by USNI News, the news publication of the U.S. Naval Institute, highlights how the U.S. Navy is testing 3D technology to create custom-fitted earplugs. According to the article, hearing damage is the U.S. military’s top injury, believed to affect some 140.000 service members annually, so tackling noise-induced hearing damage is a priority. Reading the article, we immediately noticed our GRAS 45CB Acoustic Test Fixture in one of the accompanying photos.
Acoustics involves the study of sound, noise, and vibration. Understanding the acoustic performance of a product is crucial, as different devices have varying acceptable noise levels. Acoustic testing evaluates how a product will perform in real-world environments and identifies whether adjustments are needed to minimize noise. Manufacturers across many industries rely on acoustic testing to establish these performance benchmarks.
Acoustic quality and design are essential components of product performance. Sounds significantly influence how a product’s features and functionality are perceived, while also supporting its brand identity. At the same time, manufacturers face increasing regulatory demands and competitive pressure to reduce noise levels and comply with strict noise-making or noise-limiting standards. Engineers require efficient tools to design, refine, and validate prototypes throughout the development process.
Therefore, acoustic testing solutions must be versatile, adapting to a wide range of industry applications and engineering tasks, all while adhering to the latest international standards.
The field of noise testing is evolving at breakneck speed. The increasing demand for advanced audio technologies like active noise cancelling and voice-controlled smart systems make high precision measurements to guarantee superior sound quality a necessity. This means that customers (or project owners) tasked with developing consumer electronics, cars, aircraft, or other applications, will increasingly face test situations where business as usual just isn’t good enough anymore.
The ascent of electric vehicles (EVs) marks a monumental shift toward sustainability and innovation. But the transition amplifies a challenge that was once overshadowed by the rumble of internal combustion engines (ICEs): road and tire noise. In the age of EVs, understanding and mitigating these noise sources has become more crucial than ever. In this blog post, we delve into the significance of road and tire noise testing in EVs, highlighting why it's a pivotal aspect of automotive engineering and design.
