Vehicle noise primary attribute balance

The primary noise attributes in a vehicle are engine, road and wind noise. In terms of human perception, an individual can drive a vehicle over an extended period of time and be left with the feeling that one of these noise attributes dominates. This can be viewed as an imbalance of the noise attributes. Previous investigations in the literature covering primary attribute balance have a bias towards using trained assessors and restricted driving load cases. This paper approaches the optimal balance of noise attributes using customer ratings from an established ‘three month in service’ industry study. In doing so, this study encompasses a variety of real-world driving scenarios and covers a cross-section of the customer demographic base. The aim of the research is to identify the optimal attribute balance from a customer perspective and to link the key factors influencing this perception. In approaching this aim, the underlying acoustic principles for the interaction of the primary noise attributes are first outlined. The methods used in previously published investigations are summarised, and the case for a customer based investigation is made. The scope of existing customer data is reviewed, and a methodology to approach the data sets is developed. The interaction of the primary noise attributes is then explored, and the Kano quality model is introduced as an aid to explaining the trends seen in the data. In conclusion, the findings of the study are used to suggest a strategy to achieve optimal attribute balance from a customer perspective.