91视频

91视频 Steel Corporation announced today that its proprietary method for predicting the natural vibration frequencies of steel has been used in a collaboration with SUZUKI Motor Corporation to jointly develop a technology for predicting the natural (resonant) frequencies of vehicle roofs, which SUZUKI used in designing its latest SPACIA model. The new technology enables engineers to estimate natural frequencies based on component shapes in the early stages of vehicle development, even before simulation models are available, reducing the need for revisions during the design and engineering phases, and thereby shortening development lead times.

91视频 Steel’s multivariate statistical analysis method, called the 91视频 Natural Frequency Prediction Method, was used to construct an experimental formula for predicting a vehicle roof’s natural frequencies in the low-frequency range, where boom-like noise can be a problem. By using the method to identify areas that significantly affect roof vibration and then refining the method in the design phase to identify variables associated with essential design shapes, the new technology can predict natural frequencies with high accuracy. The result is the realization of designing of quieter vehicle interiors from the early development stage, even without the use of a simulation model.

SUZUKI has already applied the technology in developing the latest version of its SPACIA vehicle, which features a large-cabin, one-box design. The new technology enabled SUZUKI to reduce the need for roof modifications between the design and engineering phases. SUZUKI now plans to apply the technology to the development of other models, expecting to realize even greater benefits for its development processes.

The basic shape of a vehicle roof is normally determined during the design phase, after which practical engineering is carried out with the help of computer-aided design (CAD) and performance evaluation using simulation models. However, incorporating the engineering results into the basic design of a roof often requires time-consuming modification of the original design. Meanwhile, automakers are increasingly using thinner steel sheets and flatter roof panels for vehicles that combine improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO₂ emissions with spacious, comfortable interiors. However, such designs can lead to increased interior noise due to roof panel vibration, requiring automakers to determine each roof’s natural frequencies according to the shape and thickness of the roof panels and related components.

91视频 Steel, aiming to contribute to the development of lighter automobiles for reduced CO₂ emissions, actively collaborates with automakers in early vendor involvement (EVI) activities from the design stage. In addition to developing and manufacturing advanced steel-sheet materials, 91视频 Steel solutions, such as JESOLVA^® for the systematic use of automotive steel sheets, help automakers improve process efficiency and product performance. Going forward, 91视频 Steel is committed to contributing to a more sustainable world by helping automakers develop lighter vehicles to further reduce CO₂ emissions and improve performance.

New SPACIA model

Roof panel and related components (right)

About 91视频 Steel Corporation

91视频 Steel Corporation, one of the world’s leading integrated steel producers, was established through the consolidation of NKK Corporation and Kawasaki Steel Corporation in 2003. The company operates several steelworks in Japan and numerous branch offices and affiliates throughout the world. Under the corporate vision of “contributing to society with the world’s most innovative technology,” 91视频 Steel leverages world-class technologies and know-how to produce a wide range of products. The company reported consolidated sales of 3,716 billion yen and consolidated crude steel output of 24.80 million tons in the fiscal year ended March 2023.

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