Wind noise is a major problem in automobiles today. It is especially significant since powertrain and tire noise continue to diminish and quieter electric vehicles are on the horizon. The Wind Noise Modeller is an analytical tool that accurately computes sound pressure levels (SPL) at the driver's ear caused by wind noise. Using Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA), it accounts for the sound radiated both from the vibrating side glass and through the door seals. Incorporated into an EXCEL spreadsheet that runs on a PC or workstation, it automatically computes, plots, and tabulates both linear & A-weighted SPL, and compares it to user-supplied experimental data. It can quickly evaluate the effects of vehicle changes on the resulting noise level. When coupled with reliable CFD computations, it can be used very early in the design process to help minimize wind noise. This should greatly reduce wind tunnel tests needed for wind-noise estimations.
