Measurements of the Sound Absorption Coefficient of Auditorium Seats for Various Geometries of the Samples

This paper presents the results of measurements of the sound absorption coefficient of auditorium seats carried out in the laboratory using two methods. In the first one, small blocks of seats in various arrangements were studied in a reverberation chamber to determine the absorption coefficient of an auditorium of infinite dimensions. The results were compared to the values of the absorption coefficient measured using the second method, which involved samples enclosed within a frame screening the side surfaces of other auditorium blocks. The results of both methods allowed for the assessment of the sound absorption coefficient of an auditorium of any dimensions while taking into account the sound absorption by the side surfaces. The method developed by the authors will simplify the currently known measurement procedures

Verification of mathematical formulae applied to overhead stage canopy design

This paper presents a comparison of the experimental research concerning overhead stage canopies with a numerical approach based on selected mathematical models. The numerical predictions are made using the simplified asymptotic curves suggested by Rindel and modified by Skålevik. For singular cases a prediction with detailed calculations based on the Fresnel-Kirchhoff approximation is also given. The aim of the work is to verify proposed algorithms for designing reflective panels as well as to determine the conditions of conducting such procedures. It is shown that based on Rindel's approximation one may determine some substantial information about sound reflection from the panels i.e. the value of upper limit frequency as well as the relative sound reflection level. On the other hand, the lower cut-off frequency should be calculated using Skålevik's model as the value obtained from Rindel's formula is undervalued. Such an approach could be applied to design reflective structures. However, it has some limitations for example for arrays of perturbed symmetry or sparse arrays as well as in the case of non-perpendicular angles of sound wave incidence. Then it may be necessary to apply more accurate numerical models

The Characteristic of Sound Reflections from Curved Reflective Panels

The paper presents the verification of a solution to the narrow sound frequency range problem of flat reflective panels. The analytical, numerical and experimental studies concerned flat panels, panels with curved edges and also semicircular elements. There were compared the characteristics of sound reflected from the studied elements in order to verify which panel will provide effective sound reflection and also scattering in the required band of higher frequencies, i.e. above the upper limit frequency. Based on the conducted analyzes, it was found that among some presented solutions to narrow sound frequency range problem, the array composed of panels with curved edges is the most preferred one. Nevertheless, its reflection characteristic does not meet all of the requirements, therefore, it is necessary to search for another solution of canopy which is effective over a wide frequency range

Test Signal Selection for Determining the Sound Scattering Coefficient in a Reverberation Chamber

The paper focuses on the problem of test signal selection in determining the sound scattering coefficient in accordance with ISO 17497-1. Research shows that the use of MLS signal is preferred in this procedure. The sine sweep signal, despite its advantages, presents certain limitations if the sample is moving during measurement. An attempt has been made to develop a method that allows for minimization of error, demonstrating the dependence of the obtained values of the sound scattering coefficient on the rotational speed of the turntable and type of test signal. Conditions for the application of the sine sweep signals in continuous and discrete measurements were defined

Sound Diffusers with Fabric Covering

Fabric covering is often used by designers, as it can easily mask acoustic structures that do not match an interior. However, in the case of sound diffusers based on change in the phase of the reflected wave, the use of fabric covering is not without its effect on acoustics. It reduces the effectiveness of these structures and raises acoustic absorption. In the paper, the authors analyzed the acoustical properties of a selected fabric used to cover sound diffusers. Sound absorption and scattering coefficients for a system composed of sound diffusers and a fabric situated at different distances d were measured. The results were compared to the sound absorption predicted on the basis of Kuttruff’s and Mechel’s theoretical models. Analysis of the results indicates that the fabric has a significant influence on the system’s acoustic parameters. It is also observed, that fabric applied directly on a phase grating diffuser, produces higher absorption than when it is at some distance from it