Index Research for Enhancement Sound Quality of Outboard Engine

Abstract

The outboard motor market is expanding due to an increase in leisure use, and there is a demand for enhanced quietness and comfort of outboard motors. In the development of automobiles and motorcycles, original sound quality index research and sound quality development are being pursued to enhanced product value, but in the development of outboard motors, there are examples of noise reduction and compliance with noise regulations, but there are almost no examples of sound quality enhancement. In this study, we focused on the sound quality of outboard motors and conducted a questionnaire survey of North American boat users using the SD method. The difference in the impression of outboard motor sound quality was clarified, and factors affecting the results were obtained by factor analysis, and three important factors for sound quality of outboard motor could be extracted. In addition, considered the physical features of the extracted factors.