Structural Dynamic Applications Using Principal Component Analysis Method

Principal component analysis (PCA) is a statistical procedure that uses an orthogonal transformation to convert a set of observations of possibly correlated variables into a set of values of linearly uncorrelated variables called principal components. The PCA method enables to reduce the study of a complex noise and vibration problem, with multiple partially correlated references, to the study of independent, uncorrelated problems. This paper describes systematic processes for road noise improvement along with measurement and analysis process. The noise sources are identified by using a source decomposition method. In the next step the main noise paths are identified by using a transfer path analysis method (TPA). Based on obtained results, the design modification of body panels is suggested for road noise reduction by using a panel contribution analysis. Finally the method will be applied to road noise reduction process for a new vehicle.