Topology optimization design for noise reduction in a truck cab interior

A structural optimization method for cab acoustic-structural coupled systems was proposed based on panel acoustic contribution analysis and could be used for noise reduction in a truck cab interior. Frequency response of acoustic-structural coupled systems was computed under excitations at the cab mounts in a frequency range from 20 to 200 Hz by using modal analysis method. Panel acoustic contribution analysis was done to determine the structural area of the cab contributing most to the noise levels on the driver's right ear. Topology optimization was performed to maximize the lowest eigenfrequency of the most contributing structural area subjected to a given volume constraint. The new optimal and modified cab structure was obtained with a 29 dB reduction of sound pressure level while the structural weight maintained relatively unchanged. The result demonstrates the potential significance of the new method developed for noise reduction in a truck cab interior.