The problem with reducing traffic noise is one of understanding the tyre/road/vehicle/noise generation mechanisms and is of an inter-disciplinary nature. Within the co-operation between PIARC (C1Ccommittee) and FISITA (International Federation of Automotive Engineering Societies) a working group on tyre/road noise has been founded. This review paper represents results of the working group in the form of a critical review of the international state of the art. The objective of the paper is to inform persons involved in engineering or road transport of the current knowledge base of noise generation mechanisms and the test methodology in order to enhance a common understanding. The paper discusses factors of tyre design and how they influence tyre/road/noise generation. The paper then goes on to discuss the mechanisms of noise generation and introduces the basic definitions and test methodology used. The views of the tyre engineer, the highway engineer and the vehicle engineer are presented. From a vehicle manufacturers point of view, these are expressed in terms of both the car and the heavy truck. It is clear on reading the whole paper that there remains some diversity of view between the various areas of research. However, each is now working towards the ultimate quest for a complete understanding of the phenomena and a useful mathematical model for the prediction of external noise and internal noise generated through the road texture, tyre and vehicle system. The authors are also mindful there remains other aspects of road to vehicle interaction such as safety, comfort, fuel consumption, handling and stability etc. that should not be sacrificed in the interest of just reducing noise. The paper is aimed at giving the reader an up-to-date summary on a very complex subject. Research is still needed to further the complete understanding, however, there is also a need to utilise the findings that have been achieved to-date. For the covering abstract see ITRD E118727.
Abstract