Interior noise effects of active vibration cancellation for a 4-cylinder engine

Electric vehicles with range extending internal combustion engines represent a particular noise and vibration challenge. The relatively quiet and smooth operation in electric mode is contrasted by the rather loud and harsh running range extender. This situation is often exacerbated by the need for weight reduction throughout the vehicle to maximize the electric driving range. The omission of passive noise reduction measures like insulation material and engine balance shafts reduces weight but further increases perceived noise and vibration. In this paper the application of an active vibration control system to such a vehicle with a gasoline range extender without balance shafts will be presented. The effects of error sensor choice and actuator inclination on interior noise and vibration levels will be addressed.