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research
The Sound and Vibration Research Group (SVRG) in the Department
of Mechanical Engineering, Stellenbosch University, have established
expertise, equipment and laboratory facilities to conduct research
and investigations into a variety of noise and vibration problems
for industry and the public sector. The primary field of research
is associated with human response to sound and vibration where, in
particular, seating dynamics and sound quality are investigated. This group also developed a new suspension seat for off-shore, high-speed Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs) that reduce the shock induced by slamming and jumping over waves by nearly 50%.
Group Members
Areas of expertise
Objectives 
Applications
Contact
group members
Prof
Wikus van Niekerk
Dr Cornie Scheffer
Mr Kobus van der Westhuizen
Mr Hans Heunis
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areas of expertise
- Noise
and vibration measurement, analysis and assessment
to reduce overall noise and vibration levels, troubleshoot specific
problems and investigate the application of advanced
methodologies, such as vibration monitoring, to reduce
maintenance and operating cost.
- Modal analysis,
both experimental and using finite element models to verify
the structural response of structures.
- Measurement
and assessment of industrial noise and vibration to ensure
healthy and safe working environments.
- Assessment
of the environmental impact of noise and vibration as part
of EIA (environmental impact assessment) studies.
- Test
automotive NVH (noise, vibration and harshness)
according to national and international standards.
- Environmental
testing of components and structure for
vibration endurance.
- In-situ
measurements of sound for playback and analysis
use in jury panel evaluations and the calculation of SQ
(sound quality) metrics to assess the sound quality of
products and vehicles.
objectives
- To establish
expertise in sound and vibration measurement, analysis
and assessment with the associated measuring
equipment and software tools to conduct research in seating dynamics
and sound quality as well as to provide consulting services to industry
to solve noise and vibration issues.
- To assist
South African companies to solve unique sound and vibration
problems to ensure that their products are more
competitive and that their workforce enjoys a safe and healthy working
environment.
- To train
engineers equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge
to contribute to the field of sound and vibration
research as well as serve industry as specialists in the field.
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applications
The
majority of the research finds application in the automotive industry
leading to improve products from a NVH perspective but other industries,
such as mining, agricultural and forestry, where vehicles are used
for extended periods of the workday also benefit from the research
results and technical capabilities in the group. The Group have
made significant contributions to the satellite programme of Stellenbosch
University and its spin-off company Sunspace through the modal
analysis and vibration testing of micro-satellites.
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contact
Prof Wikus van Niekerk
Tel.: +27 (0)21 808 4251
Fax: +27 (0)21 808 4958
E-mail: wikus@sun.ac.za
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