The research work described in this proposal involved a detailed simulation of the acoustic performance of CFRP nose fuselage design, and a comparative analysis of a conventional metallic design.

The physical properties of CFRP structural components gives a different vibroacoustic response compared to metallic structures. In particular the low material damping and reduced number of mechanical joints made possible by CFRP technologies can give rise to higher noise levels in the cockpit.

The work used the software package VA One, which is capable of simulating the response of vibroacoustic systems across the full frequency range. In this project AOES proposed to use the FEF/FEM and FEM/BEM capabilities of VA One. AOES already possessed a license for the VAOne software and has engineers trained in its use.

It was expected that the acoustic noise assessment conducted in this project will form input to the Topic Manager and/or ITD leader for improving the design of the fuselage nose and cockpit for superior acoustic performance.