Optimization Approach for Reducing Sound Power from a Vibrating Plate by Its Curvature Design.

Abstract

In many mechanical structures, structural design for noise reduction is becoming increasingly important. Noise reduction is often achieved through structural modifications. However, it is hard to predict the effectiveness of noise reduction by typical approaches. This paper presents an optimal design approach for reducing sound power from a vibrating plate by its curvature design. The method couples an optimization technique based on a genetic algorithm (GA) with the shape representation technique, vibration analysis and acoustic radiation analysis. It is shown that the curvature design of the plate obtained by using this method can achieve effective reductions in radiated sound power. Finally, the robustness of the optimized design candidates obtained is studied by using stochastic simulations in order to find those candidates which are least sensitive to changing design parameters.