Abstract
In many mechanical structures, structural design for noise reduction is becoming increasingly important. Noise reduction is often achieved through structural modifications. However, it is hard to predict the effectiveness of noise reduction by typical approaches. This paper presents an optimal design approach for reducing sound radiation from a vibrating panel by its curvature design. We use the calculation procedure which consists of three parts, the shape representation technique using a spline function, the coupled structural-acoustic analysis based on FEM and an optimization technique based on a genetic algorithm (GA) which are performed in an iterative loop. The integrated program developed herein is utilized for the analysis of booming noise in truck cab which is caused by resonance of the engine compartment. It is shown that the curvature design of the floor panel obtained by using this method can achieve effective reductions in the sound pressure level at the receiver point.