Identification of Low Vibration Damping Areas on Automotive Door Panel and Improvement Using Natural Fibers 2024-01-2338

Vibrations constitute a pivotal factor affecting passenger comfort and overall vehicle performance in both Conventional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles and Electric Vehicles (EVs). These vibrations emanate from various sources, including vehicle design and construction, road conditions, and driving patterns, thereby leading to passenger discomfort and fatigue. In the pursuit of mitigating these issues, natural fibers, known for their exceptional damping properties, have emerged as innovative materials for integration into the automotive industry. Notably, these natural fiber-based materials offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional materials for vibration reduction. This research focuses on evaluating natural fibers mainly hemp, jute and cotton fibers for their damping characteristics when applied to a steel plate commonly used in the automotive sector. Using Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analyzer, the natural frequency and damping properties of these materials are estimated experimentally, with the aim of creating an optimal damping solution when combined with the steel plate to effectively reduce vibrations. Furthermore, the investigation centers on the critical proximity of the passenger door to the passengers. A low vibration damping area on the door has been identified by grid points. Thereafter, natural fibers used strategically applying to areas with the least damping and checked for improvements. The door vibration damping is significantly improved by 30%. This novel approach offers an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to the conventional synthetic materials traditionally used in the automotive industry.