Explorative sound evaluation

Abstract

Exposure group description of sound based on AISP (exploration of associated imaginations on sound perception) is a powerful tool in sound quality evaluation. Used in a public research project it was stated that AISP needs further adaptation for automotive use. The present study was intended as a first approach refining the method for industrial application regarding the evaluation of an appropriate test design. The study was carried out using a driving simulator and a car, both with changeable acoustic properties. Verbal evaluations by the driving test individuals and the sound were recorded. Later on an open interview with the driver was carried out based upon given commentaries. The verbal data were analyzed through a qualitative approach. By means of this data the car with changeable acoustic properties driven on road was identified as most appropriate for sound evaluation of car interior sounds. The verbal data analysis and the physical analysis of the sounds gave valuable hints for troubleshooting and target sound definition. As the study showed the strong dependency of sound evaluation on the test design a representative evaluation should be done in an adequate design (car on road). Furthermore, initial usable tools and guidelines for industrial application were developed.