Tire/Road Noise - Characterization and Potential Further Reductions of Road Traffic Noise

The first part of this paper compares results of two measurement techniques to characterize the tire/road noise radiation of a loaded rotating smooth (slick) tire on a rough road surface. Sound pressure measurements at low spatial resolution with microphones placed on a half-hemisphere around the tire/road contact patch have been performed to calculate the radiated sound power. The second method makes use of a 3D sound intensity probe and yields a highly detailed spatial visualization of the noise radiation. The second part of this paper elaborates on a holistic approach to further reduce traffic noise. This approach includes the three major actors: tires, vehicles and roads. By considering the feasibility and potential of all individual actors, the highest societal benefit can be achieved.