Loss Factors Estimation Using FEM in Statistical Energy Analysis

Statistical energy analysis (SEA) is an effective method for predicting the noise and vibration in the high-frequency band. To predict the vibration energy in SEA, it is necessary to identify the parameters called loss factors accurately. But experiments are expensive and time consuming because many test models are necessary to examine the effects of reducing the vibration energy. So we need to estimate the changes of loss factors when the structure is modified to reduce the vibration energy. This paper describes an estimation method of loss factors using finite element method (FEM). We focus on two subsystems dismounted from structure models and modify the design by changing the number of bolts and the thickness of the panel. Furthermore we construct the accurate FE models of dismounted subsystems by comparing the prediction results with the experimental results. As a result, we confirm the utility of the loss factors estimated in FEM.