NVH Production Testing

with the AVL Acoustic Quality Control. Intelligence powering production quality.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) data from units under test (UUTs) plays a critical role in the production process, revealing hidden insights and detecting quality issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

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By analyzing NVH signals during end-of-line testing, manufacturers can make informed, data-driven decisions that drive continuous improvement and ensure consistently high production quality. The AVL Acoustic Quality Control System (AQC) seamlessly integrates NVH sensors, AVL’s automation platform, and advanced analysis and post-processing software. It autonomously controls and monitors vehicle components such as electric motors and axles to extract key acoustic performance indicators. This enables precise detection and localization of production issues, including processing defects, assembly errors, and abnormal noise patterns. By leveraging comprehensive production data, manufacturers can optimize the entire production process through targeted, data-driven improvements.

Standard end-of-line test systems are effective at detecting obvious issues such as bearing faults. However, subtle and rare acoustic anomalies caused by factors like assembly misalignments, gear tooth damage, or breakage often go undetected. Electric motors, in particular, are vulnerable to performance deviations resulting from variations in magnetic field strength, increased cogging torque, torque ripple, and inverter-induced noise.

Moreover, noise quality issues such as gear rattle or whining may not directly jeopardize the functionality of the unit under test, but they can significantly impact user experience and brand perception. Consistently monitoring these acoustic characteristics across a wide range of test units is essential. The evolving acoustic profile of each unit offers valuable insights into the long-term trends and stability of production quality.

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Detect Subtle and Rare Acoustic Anomalies

Go beyond standard fault detection to identify infrequent or nuanced issues.

Assess Noise Quality Impact

Capture and evaluate non-critical noises (e.g. gear rattle) that affect user experience and brand perception.

Enable Long-Term Acoustic Monitoring

Track acoustic profiles across multiple tests to assess production quality trends and emerging patterns.

With AVL AQC, NVH testing at the end of the production line goes beyond standard checks capturing a wider spectrum of noise, vibration, and harshness issues. By identifying and documenting even the rarest acoustic anomalies, manufacturers gain deeper insights into component quality. The more NVH data collected, the more accurate the predictions and the earlier potential issues can be addressed. In the long run, precise and consistent NVH measurements are one of the most effective strategies for reducing costly vehicle recalls and safeguarding brand reputation

The system includes the following key components

  • Test System Automation (PUMA 2 or 3rd party)
  • Sensor Positioning System (e.g., robot arm)
  • Sensors (e.g. microphone, laser vibrometer or 
    conventional vibration sensors)
  • Data acquisition AVL X-Meter and AVL IndiCom™
  • Postprocessing Software AVL CONCERTO
ApplicationDesigned to deal with high production volume
E-Axle handlingManual or (semi-) automatic
Takt timeTypically 2-5 min.
AutomationAVL PUMA 2 Production
Data acquisitionAVL IndiCom
Post-processingAVL CONCERTO including NVH Toolbox and Statistical Tool
Measurement variablesAir-borne and structrue-borne noise phenomena besides typical UUT load information (dynamic torque, speed, ...)
SensorsAccelerometers, microphones, laser-vibrometers or customer specific equipment
Environment integrationSeamslessly integrable into the customer production line
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The AVL AQC combines intelligent automation with precision measurement to streamline end-of-line NVH testing. The process begins with PUMA™, which sets the test object into a defined operating state such as specific speed, torque, power, or temperature. Next, the positioning system places or aligns the sensor precisely, depending on its type and the test requirements. The captured signal is then processed by IndiCom™ and validated by PUMA™. At the end of the cycle, a comprehensive report confirms whether the unit under test meets the quality acceptance criteria, clearly indicating whether it is OK or NOK. This seamless workflow ensures consistent, reliable, and fully automated acoustic quality control.

Pinpoint Precision with Advanced NVH Analysis

Catch the Unexpected Detect spontaneous noise events like clicks or ticks with our unique impulsive noise feature.
Reveal the Hidden Identify rare and subtle acoustic anomalies that traditional systems often miss ensuring no defect slips through.

Seamless Integration from Sensor to Insight

All-in-One Solution From signal acquisition to data evaluation, AVL AQC delivers a fully integrated hardware and software ecosystem. No More Sync Issues A unified platform means smooth operation, easy updates, and a future-proof investment in quality control.

Flexible, Scalable, and Built for Your Needs

Tailored Testing Easily adapt sensors and evaluation methods to your specific production requirements. Expandable Architecture Scale effortlessly as your testing needs grow. Smart Data Management Intelligent threshold and data handling for efficient, adaptive quality monitoring.

Data-Driven Traceability That Lasts

Consistent Comparisons Benchmark results across test units and production stages using standardized procedures.
Fast, Insightful Evaluation A dynamic database enables rapid access to historical data and trends empowering continuous improvement.

gerhard zalar

During end-of-line (EOL) testing, we utilize advanced NVH analysis to identify production errors that significantly impact customer acceptance. Our AVL system for acoustic quality control provides the essential toolchain for detecting both standard and unforeseen NVH issues in EOL testing.”

– Gerhard Zalar, Senior Application Engineer, AVL List GmbH

AVL Production Testing Solutions – Brochure

Quality in Time.

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