On the integration of finite elements and statistical energy analysis to improve the calculation of coupling loss factors

The outline of a new general approach for the calculation of the coupling loss factors (CLFs) of structural junctions for Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) models is presented. The method aims to complement the modelling capabilities and overcome the main limitations of the current and purely analytical methods employed to derive CLF values. An hybrid approach is used which integrates travelling wave and finite element analysis (FEA). The main theoretical key points are discussed. The method is applied to simple test cases to verify its capability to reproduce standard and well-known configurations, and also to determine the finite element modelling criteria in order to obtain reliable predictions. Promising results demonstrated the potentialities of the proposed method.