MORPHING OPTIMIZATION OF CONSTRAINED LAYER DAMP- ING PATCHES IN VEHICLE STRUCTURES

Passive constrained layer damping (PCLD) treatment is an effective means to reduce vibrations and sound radiation in the automotive industry. The use of PCLD patches on the entire structure surface is not an acceptable treatment due to the damping effect not significantly improving in comparison with an effective partial damping treatment. In addition, covering the entire surface with damping material increases the weight of the car to the point of poor system performance. This paper investigates optimal damping distribution with the geometry and location of the damping patches as design variables. To achieve an optimal damping distribution, a numerical model based on finite element analysis and morphing optimization is implemented. This research provides useful general guidelines for the passive control of noise and vibration design in vehicle structures.