Modeling of multi-material beams in analytical SEA

This study presents a method for predicting vibrations in multi-material, multi-layer beams using Analytical Statistical Energy Analysis (ASEA) by considering them as homogeneous beams with equivalent bending characteristics. This approach enables the simultaneous achievement of weight reduction and noise and vibration performance, which is essential in the current trend of using lightweight materials such as high strength steel, aluminum, and fiber-reinforced plastics in vehicle body structures. The proposed method is validated through Finite Element Method (FEM) calculation and the vibration energy transfer characteristics of multi-layer beams are examined. Additionally, an example of replacing a steel single-unit beam with a multi-layer beam is presented to demonstrate the potential of the proposed method in achieving lightweight and low vibration.