Investigation of the aerodynamic noise characteristics and influencing factors of a vehicle seat exhaust valve

A hybrid method combining large eddy simulation and Lighthill’s acoustic analogy was employed to simulate the exhaust noise generated by the solenoid valve in the air path control system of a car massage seat. Comparison with experimental data demonstrates that the numerical simulation results are reliable. The simulated frequency spectrum, spatial distribution, and directivity of the exhaust noise were analyzed, and the effects of inlet pressure, valve core installation angle, valve core height, and exhaust port diameter on the exhaust noise of the solenoid valve were investigated. The results indicate that the exhaust noise is broadband in nature, with the primary noise source located inside the solenoid valve. The noise exhibits directionality, predominantly radiating in the exhaust direction. Exhaust noise increases with rising inlet pressure, particularly in the high-frequency range. Valve core height has no significant effect on aerodynamic noise. Larger valve core installation angles and larger exhaust port diameters result in higher exhaust noise levels. This study provides a reference for the optimization and noise reduction design of solenoid valves used in car massage seats.