A method and apparatus for evaluating window regulators of the type having a
reversible
electric motor connected to a slide/carrier plate by means of cables. The apparatus
comprises a first transducer such as a piezoelectric accelerometer or a laser for
generating a first signal quantity related to periodic noise produced by the motor
during operation thereof, a second transducer such as a piezoelectric accelerometer
for producing a second signal quantity representing transient noise produced by
irregularities in the slide/carrier plate assembly during travel of the carrier
plate along the slide, and a processor for decoding the first and second waveforms
and using data derived therefrom as a basis for identifying unacceptably noisy
window regulator assemblies. The method comprises placing the window regulators
on a test fixture, operating the window regulator with a simulated glass load,
and generating and processing the first and second signal quantities as described above.