The noise-reducing technology, known as acoustic meta-material, received a 2020 Popular Science Best of What’s New Award in the automotive category.
Established in 1872, Popular Science
is one of the U.S.’s oldest and most trusted brands, reporting on
groundbreaking innovations and discoveries. The Best of What’s New
Awards recognize breakthrough products and technologies that represent
significant advancements in their categories.
Nissan’s acoustic
meta-material is a new lightweight sound insulation material. Its makeup
is simple: a combination of a lattice structure and plastic film
controls air vibrations to limit the transmission of wide frequency band
noise (500-1200 hertz), such as road and engine noise. While most
materials used to isolate this frequency band consist mainly of heavy
rubber board, Nissan’s acoustic meta-material is one-fourth the weight
yet provides the same degree of sound isolation.
The material
represents a breakthrough by Nissan engineers in their effort to offer
customers a relaxing, quiet cabin while reducing vehicle weight and
thereby improving mileage.
Acoustic meta-material is currently
under development for commercialization and represents how Nissan
Intelligent Mobility technology is being developed to enhance the
driving experience.
