Ricardo has invested in significant upgrades to its Vehicle Anechoic Test Facility (VATF) at its Shoreham Technical Centre in the UK, which will expand the range of vehicles that can be tested.
A new 344kW chassis dynamometer has been installed inside the facility and the original anechoic cell wedges have been completely stripped out and replaced with the latest Metadyne wedges, which are more durable and conform to the latest international standards. In terms of control architecture, the system has been comprehensively upgraded with full transient and enhanced steady-state capabilities, enabling new drive cycles and control with road load simulation.
Ricardo’s manager of NVH, Simon Tate, said, “Vehicle refinement has never been more important than it is today. The major international markets are facing unprecedented future requirements to make vehicles quieter in terms of exterior noise, while automakers are also perceiving the importance of creating the ‘right’ noise signature as a crucial driver for future sales.
“This is not just for niche, high-performance vehicles, but is increasingly the case for mainstream products aimed at differing local and regional international market tastes, and especially so for alternative powertrain vehicles such as plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.
“Ricardo’s comprehensive upgrade of the Vehicle Anechoic Test Facility is as well timed as it is exceptionally well designed and equipped. Together with the expertise of the Ricardo NVH team, our advanced simulation software and our broad range of test equipment from binaural heads and acoustic cameras, the investment in this new facility ensures that Ricardo is positioned to provide a world-class refinement service in the years ahead.”
July 28, 2015