Title: Xtreme Make-Over In 24 Hours
text: Our conference chairman told me that this special technical section was structured to provide “some words of wisdom from the old guys” or something to that effect. I know I can meet most of his requirements. I am a pensioner and an oak tree. However, “words of wisdom” maybe a challenge. Solving noise problems, setting acoustical performance targets and guidelines, and developing noise control systems for new and carry-over vehicles can be very challenging and time consuming particularly in today's culture. In the 1970's and 80's, and 90's we had the same challenges. Our customers demanded and appreciated a quiet vehicle. They want to talk to each other without shouting or to enjoy a favorite music selection regardless of weather, road conditions, or vehicle speed. The use of ear plugs or cotton is not acceptable! Noise Gremlins (Figure 1) can ruin a good day! Management, on the other hand, reasonably requires that we accomplish all of these objectives as soon as possible (yesterday preferred), don't spend any money, design it for easy assembly and above all keep-the-lead-out! Don't add any weight to the vehicle! Did your boss make any of these demands recently?