Computational aero-acoustics (CAA) allows the prediction and comparison of the aero-acoustic performance of designs. ICON has a long experience in performing and validating flow induced noise computations.

In our first studies, numerical techniques developed in the DESTINY-AAC (Detached Eddy Simulation for the Transportation INdustrY – AeroACoustics) industrial project with partners Audi, Bombardier, DaimlerChrysler, Behr etc. were broadly applied. Technology evaluation for wide variety of applications including HVAC systems, A-pillars, wing-mirrors, fans, cavities etc. has been achieved.

More recently, ICON has provided benchmark assessments of current capabilities of CFD and acoustic simulation tools for simulating aero-acoustic phenomena. Various numerical methods have been evaluated including LES, DES, RANS. Software tools that have been evaluated and compared include STAR-CD, OpenFOAM® and PowerFLOW. Noise propagation to the near and far field is realised through coupling of CFD tools with other commercial tools (SysNOISE, ACTRAN etc)

In-house aero-acoustics areas of current research include wing-mirrors, cavities, A-pillars, gutters, cabin air outlets, high-lift devices, HVAC ducting.

The following questions are among those that the company would commonly respond to:

• What are the most important sources of noise to consider in our application?
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the available numerical prediction methods?
• What are the most suitable noise prediction technologies to introduce into the Virtual Product Development (VPD) process?
• What hardware and software investment would be required to predict the aero-acoustic sound sources and propagation?

ICON provides a bespoke simulation methodology based on both numerical and experimental experience.