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This paper describes a general noise control system design process. The methodology is applied to heavy duty trucks. The paper describes the benefits, for optimization purposes, of a systems approach versus a component approach. The role of both experimental and predictive approaches on the design process is outlined. Available noise control materials are briefly described, and lastly, an example of the results of the development of a noise control system by the experimental systems approach is provided.

In the United States, an intercity long-haul truck averages approximately 1,800 hrs per year for idling, primarily for sleeper cab hotel loads, consuming 838 million gallons of diesel fuel across the entire long-haul fleet [1]. Including workday idling, over 2 billion gallons of fuel are used annually for truck idling [2]. The U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is working on solutions to reduce idling fuel use through the CoolCab project. The objective of the CoolCab project is to work closely with industry to design efficient thermal management systems for long-haul trucks that minimize engine idling and fuel use while maintaining the cab occupant comfort. NREL conducted an experimental test program at their Vehicle Testing and Integration Facility in collaboration with Volvo Trucks, Aearo Technologies LLC / E-A-R Thermal Acoustic Systems - a 3M company, 3M Corporation, and Dometic Environmental Corporation.