An Efficient Design & Manufacturing Process for Automotive Dash Insulators with Optimally Tuned Performance 2003-01-1421

This paper describes a method which combines state of the art NVH measurement methods for structure and airborne noise characterization integrated with a manufacturing process which utilizes results of these measurements to spatially vary the construction of dash insulators based on specific automotive vehicle requirements. An integrated technique for measuring structure and airborne based noise sources are discussed and demonstrate the capability to measure accurately higher frequency phenomena and the associated short acoustic wavelength and high spatial mode complexities often encountered in the development of vehicle sound packages. Based on these results the variable mass barrier process is explained specific to incorporation into the manufactured product using a robotic spray technology that varies distribution of material across the dash insulator surface. Overall benefits are discussed.