Introduction
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) has become a critical engineering domain in the automotive and manufacturing industries due to its significant impact on product quality, customer comfort, safety, and environmental noise control. Modern vehicles are expected to deliver superior ride comfort, reduced cabin noise, and improved structural performance, making NVH analysis an essential aspect of product design and development.
Recognizing the growing industrial demand for NVH expertise, Flora Education Society, in collaboration with the DS Foundation, has developed an NVH Elective Course to be introduced in engineering colleges from 2023. To strengthen the practical learning experience associated with this course, the project titled "NVH Learning Lab – Phase 1" is proposed.
The NVH Learning Lab will bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical implementation by enabling students to validate digital simulation models with physical experimental models. The laboratory will provide hands-on experience in vibration and noise measurement, sensor integration, embedded systems, and data acquisition. Students will also gain exposure to simulation-driven design using SIMULIA software and develop practical engineering skills through Do-It-Yourself (DIY) kits.
The project includes the development of seven NVH test rigs and measurement systems, creating a comprehensive platform for experiential learning, research, and innovation. Furthermore, the knowledge generated through this initiative will be disseminated via workshops, allowing other engineering institutions to establish similar NVH Learning Labs.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the NVH Learning Lab:
1. Enhance Practical Understanding of NVH Concepts
Build confidence among students and faculty by correlating digital simulation models with physical experimental models, thereby improving conceptual understanding of NVH principles.
2. Develop Cross-Functional Engineering Skills
Enable students to design and develop sensor-based data acquisition systems using embedded systems and DIY kits, fostering interdisciplinary skills in electronics, instrumentation, and mechanical engineering.
3. Establish the Foundation for an NVH Centre of Excellence
Create the necessary infrastructure and expertise to support industrial consultancy, applied research, product development, and innovation in the field of Noise, Vibration, and Harshness.
4. Promote Experiential Learning
Integrate the laboratory with the NVH elective course by developing seven NVH test rigs validated through SIMULIA simulations, providing hands-on experience in vibration and acoustic measurements.
5. Facilitate Knowledge Transfer
Conduct workshops and share test rig designs, standard operating procedures (SOPs), hardware configurations, and software resources to enable other engineering colleges to establish similar NVH Learning Labs.