Noise Control
Articles tagged with Noise Control
Ultralight ‘organ-pipe’ structure absorbs noise with high structural strength
Researchers have created a carbon-fiber composite that swallows sound waves while retaining the strength of industrial load-bearing panels. The design achieves an average sound absorption coefficient of over 0.9 across a frequency range of 1,500 to 5,500 hertz.
Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable
Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.
Lower music volume levels in fitness class and perceived exercise intensity
A comparative effectiveness study found that lower music volume levels in group fitness classes did not significantly impact perceived exercise intensity. The research suggests implementing safer sound practices and increased awareness on hearing protection to minimize the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.
AI headphones automatically learn who you’re talking to — and let you hear them better
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed smart headphones that use AI to detect conversation cadence and isolate participants in a noisy soundscape. The prototype was tested with 11 participants, who rated filtered audio more than twice as favorably as baseline sound.
Transforming acoustic waves with a chip
Researchers have developed a new acoustic wave-producing technology on an electronic chip, enabling customizable curved waves for trapping objects, routing wave information, and transporting fluids. This innovation has significant potential in medical applications, such as noninvasive surgery and biosensors.
Hear that? Mizzou researchers are ‘listening’ to molecules in supersonic conditions
Mizzou researchers have discovered a way to 'listen' to molecules moving faster than the speed of sound, using photoacoustic spectroscopy. This technique could help unravel mysteries of astrochemistry and offer clues about the universe's composition, star formation, and life origins.
Seven-octave ultrabroadband metamaterial absorbers
Researchers have developed a metamaterial absorber spanning seven octaves that demonstrates an average absorption coefficient of 0.944, covering the entire audible spectrum. The absorber's compact profile and ultrabroadband performance show promising applications in aerospace noise reduction and precision acoustic environment control.
Sound insulation tiles at school help calm crying children #ASA188
A study conducted at a Japanese school found that classrooms with sound-absorbing materials experienced reduced crying rates among young children, who were able to communicate more clearly. The research aimed to raise awareness about the importance of acoustics in educational settings and inspire regulations.
Reducing underwater noise when installing subsea structures #ASA188
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a metamaterial that can significantly reduce underwater noise generated by offshore wind farm installation. The technology, which uses carefully arranged plates to trap air and guide sound, achieves a 40-decibel reduction in noise levels.
Helping noisy data centers fit into residential neighborhoods #ASA188
A study by Trinity Consultants identifies effective means of controlling data center noise, including sound barriers and low-frequency resonators. The goal is to create a quieter breed of data centers that can coexist with residential areas, protecting residents from excessive noise.
AI–enabled prediction of heart failure risk from single-lead electrocardiograms
A noise-adapted AI model using lead I ECGs estimated heart failure risk with high accuracy, suggesting a potential strategy for early detection. The study's results highlight the promise of wearable and portable ECG devices in identifying at-risk patients.
AI headphones create a ‘sound bubble,’ quieting all sounds more than a few feet away
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a headphone prototype that can create 'sound bubbles' around the wearer, allowing them to focus on conversations without external noise. The system uses AI algorithms and machine learning to track sound sources and suppress distant noises.
Making every hair appointment a sound experience #ASA186
Acoustic experts reduce noise levels in a high-end salon, improving conversation ease and protecting employees' hearing. The successful solution can be applied to other salons, restaurants, stores, and conference centers to enhance clear communication and occupational safety.
Advanced noise suppression technology for improved search and rescue drones
A novel AI-based noise suppression system has been developed to improve the effectiveness of search and rescue drones during natural disasters. The system uses Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) to accurately learn UAV propeller sound data and eliminate noise, allowing operators to clearly hear and recognize human sounds.
Taming noise behind bars #Acoustics23
The article discusses the importance of acoustic design in prison environments, where constant noise is harmful to both prisoners and staff. By incorporating speech intelligibility, strategic noise reduction, and privacy considerations, acoustic design can improve communication dynamics and alleviate negative social interactions.
New technique in error-prone quantum computing makes classical computers sweat
Researchers developed a new technique called zero noise extrapolation (ZNE) that allows noisy quantum computers to produce accurate results for specific calculations. This breakthrough could enable the use of quantum computing for cutting-edge physics problems and improve classical algorithms.
Actively reducing noise by ionizing air
EPFL scientists develop a novel concept, called the active 'plasmacoustic metalayer', which can be controlled to cancel out noise. The device is more compact than conventional solutions, absorbing 100% of incoming sound intensity and offering tunable acoustic reflection over a broad bandwidth.
Even weak traffic noise has a negative impact on work performance
A laboratory study found that exposure to background traffic noise, even at 40 dB, significantly impairs concentration and perceived workload. Researchers also highlight the difficulties in avoiding high-frequency noise indoors due to reduced vehicle speeds.
Exposure to airplane noise increases risk of sleeping fewer than 7 hours per night
A new study found that people exposed to moderate aircraft noise were less likely to get the minimum recommended sleep each night. The risk increased among those living near airports or large water bodies, as well as those with no hearing loss. Exposure levels as low as 45 dB were associated with short sleep duration.
Propeller advance paves way for quiet, efficient electric aviation
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a propeller design optimisation method that paves the way for quiet, efficient electric aviation. The new design can reduce noise emissions by up to 5-8 dBA, comparable to going from a normal conversation voice to a quiet room.
On the way to smart hearing aids
The Collaborative Research Centre Hearing Acoustics is developing smart hearing aids that use artificial intelligence to adjust to different environments. The project, which aims to create more adaptable hearing devices, has received $8.1 million in funding for another four years.
Owl wing design reduces aircraft, wind turbine noise pollution
Researchers used owl wing characteristics to inform airfoil designs and significantly reduce trailing-edge noise in aeronautical and turbine engines. The study found that asymmetric serrations reduced noise more than their symmetric counterparts.
Sounding off on Seattle Space Needle renovation #ASA181
The Seattle Space Needle renovation incorporated acoustic designs to limit sound transmission, enhancing visitor experience. Acoustic materials and effective reverberant sound control were selected for the observation levels and restaurant.
Aerospace engineering student wins prestigious Beranek medal for noise control
Chia-Ching Lin, a graduate student at UTA, has won the Leo Beranek Student Medal for Excellence in Noise Control Engineering. His research focused on gear noise and vibration control in automotive rear axle systems.
Dartmouth-led team devises new technique to probe 'noise' in quantum computing
A new technique to probe and control environmental noise in quantum computing has been developed by a Dartmouth-led team. The method, called quantum noise spectroscopy, uses a quantum system as a probe of its own environment to extract information about the noise.
Binding together repelling atoms
Theoretical predictions show that controlled noise from an environment can bind repelling atoms together, creating a bound state with exotic properties. This novel mechanism could lead to improved cooling of atomic quantum gases.
UC research promises quiet cars -- even when hitting unexpected bumps in the road
University of Cincinnati researchers have created an adaptive, active algorithm to counter sudden road noises, such as those from potholes or bumps. The algorithm aims to reduce road-impact noise perceived by drivers by three to five decibels, significantly minimizing the resulting sound.
If it rolls or flies, UC research is working to keep it quiet
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are working to reduce noise in sophisticated military aircraft and quieter car rides. They have developed mathematical models for quick-response noise cancellation and clusters of harmonic responses to minimize sudden road noises.
Dr. Marahelli G. Prasad of Stevens receives ASME award
Dr. Prasad received the ASME Student Section Advisor Award for District A for his dedication to student achievement and education. His contributions have inspired students to become leaders in mechanical engineering, leading to numerous ASME award wins.
Noise research to combat 'wind turbine syndrome'
Acoustics researchers at the University of Adelaide are developing a computer model to predict wind farm noise output, aiming to reduce 'wind turbine syndrome'. The team hopes to control noise through blade shape changes and active devices, improving wind energy efficiency.